Recent flooding from Hurricanes Helene and Milton has inundated virtually every single-story home in St. Pete Beach and Treasure Island, many of which had never experienced such damage since their construction in the mid-fifties. For some residents, this harrowing experience was the final straw, prompting a move to higher ground. Others, determined to stay, are exploring ways to elevate their homes or make them more flood-resistant.

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Elevating a home costs between $100 and $160 per square foot, according to Modern Movers, a leading company in Florida specializing in this service. They claim success in elevating various types of homes, from concrete slab and block structures to all-wood homes.

Benefits of Home Elevation:

• Flood Protection: Elevating a structure above the flood level helps prevent potential water damage, particularly in flood-prone areas.
• Additional Living Space: Lifting a home creates new usable space beneath the structure, which can be used for basements, garages, or storage, increasing the property’s functional capacity.
• Structural Reinforcement: Elevation can also address compromised foundations or structural issues, reinforcing and repairing them for long-term stability.
• Property Value Enhancement: A home-lifting project can significantly boost property value by improving structural integrity and adding extra living space, making it more attractive to buyers or renters.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Lifting a home can be more cost-effective than rebuilding, particularly when dealing with flood damage or foundation repairs, allowing homeowners to address issues without extensive demolition.

Another innovative solution gaining attention is the Endura Board system from EnduraFlood. This system offers a stress-free alternative to traditional sheetrock, especially for homes prone to flooding. Made of durable PVC, similar to long-lasting plastic fences, Endura Board wall panels are easily removable and cleanable after a flood, simplifying the recovery process.

EnduraFlood states, “Our product is the first (and only) drywall that eliminates the need for messy sheetrock repair, so that you and your family can have more peace of mind during the next storm.” Florida users who installed Endura Board after Hurricane Idalia have praised its benefits, testifying to the efficiency and effectiveness of reusable wallboard in flood-prone areas.

As residents of St. Pete Beach and Treasure Island take proactive steps to protect their homes, these innovative solutions offer hope and resilience in the face of future storms.

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(Image credit: Chandan Khanna/AFP/Getty Images)