Flood Zone Design Services
Creating weather resilient structures
You know how dreadful the impacts of climate change can be today. In the last ten years, seven out of ten hurricanes were among the deadliest, causing extensive damage. Storms like Sandy has devastated several homes and families.
The number of natural disasters has increased over the years, with floods becoming more common across the USA. We have encountered flash floods, river floods, floods caused by rain and melting ice- the causes seem to be endless.
You cannot prevent natural disasters from happening. But there is one way to minimize the losses caused to your property. You can increase the climate resilience of your building so that it is not affected by natural disasters. Or, you can decrease the amount of damages by adapting your property for extreme weather conditions.
You need to rethink and update current standards and practices for planning, designing and building. This is exactly where
We can make your home or building more resilient to flooding with an appropriate flood zone design. Our team is adept in flood zone design for new buildings and houses. We can also work to flood proof your existing property so that it can withstand future disasters.
Get Pricing On a New MEP Design Proposal in Fewer than 24 Hours
Are You Located in a Flood Zone?
Many federal agencies take part in identifying flood hazards. The agency directly related to the identification of flood zones is the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). It works through divisions like the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to identify flood zones.
You can easily find out if you are located in a flood zone by accessing FEMA Flood Zone Maps. The NPIF maps also help you locate flood hazards in 20,000 communities across the United States. You may also need to research other maps like :
- Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM)
- Flood Boundary and Floodway Maps (FBFM)
- Flood Hazard Boundary Maps (FHBM)
Some properties are also located in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA). The SFHA is divided into "A" zones and "V" zones and have different design and building implications. The "A" zone and "V" zone are again divided into several subcategories. You must have knowledge of each category to design a building for flood zones.
Apart from SFHA, there are zones outside SFHA and undetermined flood hazards. You will need a thorough knowledge about the location and flood zone nuances for designing a building in a flood zone. It may not be possible for you to handle all the responsibilities single-handedly. You may also find it difficult to understand the items on the maps.
Our designers and architects are familiar with flood hazard maps and can help you out. We will review the maps and create a suitable design and planning process for your property.
We also supplement our reviews with updated calculations and metrics like flood level estimates. The process is significant when you are dealing with old or outdated flood hazard maps. The information and research are crucial, as it affects the location, design and construction of your building.
Our designers use the present conditions and create designs for future conditions. You can ensure the safety of your family and property for many more floods to come!
Flood Zone Building Code and Requirements
Full compliance with building codes for maximum flood resistance
Building in a flood zone is different and comes with a unique set of considerations. You cannot expect to follow the same construction codes applicable to other jurisdictions. On top of that, there are several regulations and community guidelines to follow. Following the codes is imperative; otherwise, you are likely to face building failures as a direct result.
You have to keep different codes in mind while designing a property for flood zones. The International Building Code (IBC) has distinct requirements for buildings located in flood zones. The NFPA 5000: Building Construction and Safety Code especially applies to buildings vulnerable to floods.
The mandatory provisions in the IBC are included mostly in Section 1612 (Flood Loads). You can also find applicable provisions in Section 106.2, Section 109.3.3, Section 1107.7.5 and more. Some jurisdictions may also adopt Optional Provisions listed in Appendix G (Flood-Resistant Construction). You may also need to refer to Section J101.2 (Grading, Flood Hazard Areas).
The applicable ordinances in NFPA 5000 are contained in Chapter 39 (Flood-Resistant Design and Construction). You may also need to consult Section 1.7.6.6.3.4, Chapter 35, Section 36.5.1.7 and Section 37.1.1.2 among others. The design and construction of the building may also need compliance with SEI/ASCE-7 and SEI/ASCE-24.
The codes and standards apply to various aspects of designing such as lowest floor elevation. You will also need to design flood openings, breakaway walls and other flood-proofing measures in accordance with the codes.
Our team has detailed knowledge of all codes, ordinances and regulations applicable to flood zones. We are also aware of local floodplain management regulations which affect the design of a building. Some states and governments also mandate additional requirements for flood zone design. You will need to consider them apart from fulfilling other codes.
Our designers abide by all regulations and develop full proof designs according to applicable codes. No matter where your property is located, we can ensure full compliance with rules. We always stay updated about latest developments in regulations or codes. Designing a building according to latest codes enable you to withstand forces of nature in a better way.
We help you build homes that get the go-ahead from the authorities and can resist floods effectively.
Looking for an MEP Engineering Design Services?
Successful Flood Zone Designs for Highest Resiliency
Our flood zone designs can withstand flood loads and other loads for decades to come. With a foolproof design, any flooding results in minor damages you can easily repair. The foundation of your building remains intact and fully functional during a flood and its aftermath.
Any breakaway enclosure below your DFE will be able to break free. They won't cause damage to the foundation, utility systems, building access structures or the foundation. We will also ensure that your building envelope is not compromised in case of floods.
If any damages occur to utility connections, you can restore them easily with minor work. Your building remains accessible and usable even if flood water fills your neighborhood.
We help you design a building which stands against the odds of nature.
