Living in Florida means balmy weather, relaxing breezes, and breathtaking ocean views. If you’re looking to refresh your home or sell to a newcomer to the sunshine state, there are so many ways to reflect the vibrancy of Floridian culture and wildlife.

However, Florida homeowners can also face the challenges of harsh weather and frequently confusing contracting laws. Stay ahead of the curve and craft your dream home with the best materials for Florida home renovation.

What Is Different About Florida Homes?

If you’re looking for a more lengthy and comprehensive renovation, you more than likely will need to employ the expertise of a contractor. In Florida, every contractor must be properly licensed for their job. A certification allows this contractor to work in any part of the state, while a registered contractor can only work in the city or county where they obtained their registration. Check the database for licensed contractors in Florida to start your renovation journey.

Additionally, Florida construction contracts require the licensee’s number, energy information, and insulation ratings. Taking the time to compile your specifications and research these topics will ensure a smooth process between the contractor, the state, and you.

As you know, Florida is home to sometimes harsh and unpredictable weather conditions. The strong humidity and sun can cause mold or dry rot in many homes. Termites are also a common problem, as they like damp and dark wood. Think of all the times you visited the beach and walked to the shower with sandy feet. Most likely, those granules are still stuck in the floor.

Hurricanes and flooding are also something to consider for renovations. Floridians should strongly consider reinforcing their home with the proper materials to protect their homestead, belongings, and family. You can also check local flood zones to see if you need to take the necessary precautions.

What Are the Best Renovation Materials?

Florida living is a unique experience, and one that comes with a lot of beauty. Protecting this way of life and enhancing your home experience means using the best renovation materials.

1. Insulated Concrete Forms

Manufacturers created insulated concrete forms (ICFs) for the billowing winds of the Arctic, so many homeowners are adapting them for hurricane seasons. Two slabs of concrete line layers of insulation, keeping humidity at bay and reinforcing walls with mighty concrete. Tough, stable, and cooling, this renovation is perfect for the savvy Floridian.

However, steer clear of wood for your renovation. It tends to absorb moisture and is not as durable at withstanding strong winds. Those with wood homes also tend to find termites nibbling away at their foundations.

2. UV Windows

Looking to get a better view of the lush landscape? It’s time to consider a window revamp. UV-deflecting glass or UV-protective film can mitigate excessive heat filling up your home to an uncomfortable degree. However, the visible spectrum of light still filters through, creating a soft, inviting glow in your living spaces.

These window innovations are also great for sustainability. By warding off excessive heat in the summer, you can decrease your usage of air conditioning energy.

3. Resilient Flooring

Sand in the floorboards and moisture in the air ensures you need a durable and unique flooring option. Engineered hardwood is not affected by humidity, for instance.

Concrete is another cooling option and great for places in the home that may experience excessive moisture, like the bathroom or kitchen.

Vinyl flooring also has many layers that protect against pools of water from spills or light flooding, mildew, mold, or other damage.

Finally, laminate flooring was once an undesirable option because it could not resist water well. With proper research, you can find new construction techniques that allow laminate floors to resist water through its four-layer design. Furthermore, floating floors have issues with moisture levels and could shrink or grow if installed incorrectly.

4. Metal or Slate Roofing

The roof is the cap of the home, insulating and protecting against harsh conditions. Metal is perfect for Florida's wet and humid climate because it is resistant to water.

For another option, try slate. Because it does not succumb to rot, this stone offers protection and a pleasant aesthetic. Remember that it is a heavy material for roofing and that the supports and foundations should be reinforced.

Floridians should probably avoid tile roofing, though. It offers a relaxed and classy look, but tiles are not waterproof. Underneath a tile roof is only a felt paper underlayment, which is not well-equipped to deal with hurricanes.

5. Acrylic Latex Paint

If you’re looking to revamp the exterior of your home color, try acrylic latex paint that is specially designed to resist moisture and strong heat. Regular paint has high salinity and will not be able to withstand the Florida weather.

Darker colors also promise to absorb heat and force you to crank the air conditioning up another notch. To protect your energy bill and the environment, invest in lighter colors or shades of white and brown.

Your Ideal Florida Home

Renovations offer a chance to reinforce and refresh your home, but your improvements will always last longer with the best materials. Stay protected against humidity and wet weather with these materials and your home will thank you.