The Resilience of Modular Homes: A Proven Solution for Hurricane-Prone Areas
When Hurricane Andrew devastated southern Dade County, Florida, in 1992, the extent of the destruction was overwhelming. High winds and relentless rain wreaked havoc on residential structures, leaving many homes in ruins. However, amid the widespread damage, one type of home stood out for its remarkable resilience: modular homes.
A detailed assessment by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) revealed that wood-frame modular buildings significantly outperformed many traditional structures during the hurricane. The Building Performance Assessment Team, created by FEMA, invested over 1,000 hours investigating the structural integrity of various building types, focusing on how they withstood the intense horizontal and vertical loads imposed by the storm.
The team, composed of engineers and building officials, discovered that the superior design and construction of modular homes enabled them to endure the hurricane’s powerful forces. This finding underscores the durability and reliability of modular construction, making it an excellent choice for homeowners seeking both safety and quality in their homes.
One key takeaway from FEMA’s assessment was the contrast in performance between modular homes and traditional homes. Much of the damage to traditional structures was attributed to inadequate design and poor workmanship. In contrast, modular homes exhibited a well-defined load transfer path with strong connections between critical components, which are essential for maintaining structural stability during extreme weather events.
At Westchester Modular Homes (WMH), the exceptional performance of modular homes is no surprise. The company’s commitment to meticulous design and structural integrity sets its homes apart. Unlike traditional homes, which are often exposed to the elements during construction, WMH homes are built in a controlled factory environment. This method reduces the risk of weather-related damage during the building process and ensures that each component is crafted with precision.
When the modular pieces are assembled on-site, they fit together seamlessly, creating clean lines and a stable, robust structure. This attention to detail and commitment to quality results in homes that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also capable of withstanding nature’s toughest challenges.
As Hurricane Andrew demonstrated, the choice of construction method can make all the difference in the resilience of a home. For those living in hurricane-prone areas, modular homes offer a proven solution, combining safety, durability, and beauty in one innovative package.
About Westchester Modular Homes Construction Corp.
Westchester Modular Homes Construction Corp. has built thousands of premium custom homes, often at a lower cost than traditional construction methods, while meeting the highest standards for quality workmanship. We serve Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess, Orange, Rockland, Ulster, and Sullivan counties in New York, along with Sussex County in New Jersey and Pike and Wayne counties in Pennsylvania.
Learn more by joining one of our convenient virtual tours of our factory. Sign up at Modular Home | Westchester Modular Homes Construction Corp. You’ll learn first-hand about our quality, service, innovation, and agile speed, and have a chance to ask your questions about modular home building. Or call us at (845) 278-1700—we’d love to help you start planning your dream home.
Want to learn more? Download our free guide that outlines the many advantages of building a modular home with Westchester Modular Homes Construction Corp.
