Brick vs. Wooden Houses: Which Better Withstood Hurricane Sandy?

Hurricanes often present a formidable challenge for any building, but certain architectural choices can offer a significant advantage in terms of resilience. In the context of Hurricane Sandy, brick houses tend to perform better than wooden houses due to their superior structural integrity and resistance to both wind and water damage. In this article, we will explore the key factors that differentiate brick and wooden houses during a hurricane.

Material Strength

Brick and Masonry Construction:

Brick and masonry construction is typically more robust than wood, making it less susceptible to wind damage. Solid brick walls can resist higher wind loads than wooden structures, which may be more prone to being torn apart by strong gusts during a hurricane. The firmness and density of brick provide a more stable foundation, offering better protection against the powerful forces that come with a severe storm.

Water Resistance

Brick Homes vs. Flooding:

Brick homes can offer better resistance to flooding and water intrusion compared to wooden houses, particularly if they are built above the floodplain. Brick construction can seal out water more effectively than wooden structures, with fewer gaps and a tighter fit around windows and doors. However, it's important to note that brick is not completely waterproof, and water can still penetrate through mortar joints or cracks. Proper sealing and maintenance are crucial to ensuring long-term protection for brick structures.

Foundation and Elevation

The Role of the Foundation:

The foundation of a brick house can also contribute to its resilience. A brick house built on a solid foundation and elevated properly can fare better in flood conditions. Proper elevation can be the difference between a structure that remains standing and one that succumbs to the floodwaters. Elevating a house can provide additional buffer against rising water levels and protect the building from extensive damage.

Construction Quality and Building Codes

Importance of Quality Construction:

The performance of any house, whether brick or wood, is heavily dependent on the quality of construction, adherence to building codes, and regular maintenance. A poorly built brick house may not perform as well as a well-built wooden house. Building codes are put in place to ensure that all constructions meet a certain standard of safety and resilience. Regular maintenance can prevent small issues from turning into significant problems during a hurricane.

Impact of Debris

Protection from Flying Debris:

In hurricanes, flying debris can cause significant damage. While brick may withstand wind better, it can still be damaged by large heavy objects. Wooden houses may suffer from broken windows or structural damage from debris. Therefore, the effectiveness of the structural design in handling debris is crucial. Some areas have implemented innovative window designs that are highly resistant to wind and debris, effectively reducing the risk of structural failure.

Learning from Florida's Hurricane Windows

Florida's unique approach to window security can be a model for resilience. These windows, known for their robustness, are designed to withstand a variety of disasters, including hurricanes, tornadoes, and even some forms of ballistic impact. Pioneering these technologies can significantly enhance the safety of buildings during severe weather events.

These stout windows are not only hurricane-resistant but also break-resistant, providing a higher level of security and protection. Their construction materials and design features make them an essential component in any building's defense against the destructive forces of a hurricane.

Conclusion

While brick houses generally have advantages in terms of wind and water resistance, the overall performance during a hurricane like Sandy would depend on various factors including construction quality, elevation, and local conditions. It is clear that a combination of robust construction and adaptive design can greatly enhance a building's resilience. Innovations in window technology, as seen in Florida, offer a promising direction for improving safety and protection in the face of extreme weather events.