Factors Influencing Construction in Florida

Weather

• Florida weather can be wet and windy. June 1 to November 30 is the official hurricane season for the state, with wind speeds of 125 mph to 150 mph possible. Hurricane winds buffet windows and doors and apply high wind loads to roofing materials. Special hurricane-resistant doors and windows may be required in specific areas to meet local building standards. Shutter protection for windows is recommended. Roofing materials with high wind resistance are required in most areas of the state.

Soil

• The soil throughout Florida is porous and subject to cave-ins called sinkholes. Many building jurisdictions include sinkhole distance limits for building projects. Check with local building departments before planning or building in any area where sinkholes are common. The highest elevation in Florida is 345 feet above sea level, and most of the land is only a few feet from becoming swampland.

Tax Rates

• At the time of publication, sales tax in Florida is 6 percent and corporate taxes are 5.5 percent. Florida does not have a state income tax. The result of these lower taxes is increased population growth in Florida, because businesses seek tax-friendly locales and individuals move to warm climates and lower-tax regions. Businesses generate more commercial construction. The growing population increases the demand for residential projects of all kinds.

Building Materials

• High humidity, frequent rain and problems with mold and termites dictate building materials and construction methods that resist these elements. Concrete block and reinforced concrete are major building materials in all areas of Florida. Metal stud walls finished with drywall help to overcome the effects of mold and termites. Heavy concrete roofing tiles reduce wind-related roofing problems. Hurricane shutters protect windows from heavy hurricane winds.