Using resilient construction techniques in regions prone to extreme weather events is worth the expense, according to a new study from researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
The study, “A BreakEven Hazard Mitigation Metric,” says initial investment in mitigation is the key to a sound structure. An initial hazard mitigation investment of $340,000 on a $10 million building would pay for itself over the lifetime of the structure by mitigating storm damage, the study says.
“Too much emphasis is placed on minimizing initial building costs and not enough attention is paid to the high costs of rebuilding after a storm,” said Jeremy Gregory, executive director of the Concrete Sustainability Hub at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology at a roundtable event in Florida. “We need elected officials to take a more long-term and sustainable view by supporting resilient building efforts.”
State lawmakers, officials, and members of the building and code communities discussed the issue at the recently held roundtable in the wake of Hurricane Matthew. The storm caused an estimated $606 million in damages.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Oct 6, 2016
New York City files criminal charges on owner for deadly building façade accident
The owner allegedly did not heed warning about danger of the crumbling exterior.
Codes and Standards | Oct 5, 2016
New York becomes the first city to adopt a target for energy storage
Mayor de Blasio also announces increased solar generation goals
Codes and Standards | Oct 4, 2016
New global residential floor space measurement standard unveiled
The new standards will produce better transparency and are said to benefit investors.
Codes and Standards | Sep 29, 2016
Dept. of Energy forecasts big jump in LED use, resulting energy savings
Big gains are expected in both commercial and residential markets.
Codes and Standards | Sep 28, 2016
San Francisco commercial, multifamily regulations aim to reduce traffic volume
City planners will require design features to cut miles driven.
Codes and Standards | Sep 28, 2016
Society of Landscape Architects releases guide to resilient design
The goal is to retrofit communities to better withstand extreme weather events.
Codes and Standards | Sep 26, 2016
Washington State Energy Code updates include dedicated outdoor air system requirements
The updates will change design approach to HVAC.
Codes and Standards | Sep 22, 2016
Construction firms pulling back from federal market due to new reporting rules
‘Subjective, very vague’ policies are said to create too much risk.
Codes and Standards | Sep 21, 2016
Airbnb presents legal liability for multifamily owners
How building owners can reduce risks.
Codes and Standards | Sep 21, 2016
Healthy buildings becoming a key design priority for both architects and building owners
Nationwide survey finds nearly three of four architects cite health impacts influencing design decisions
