Touring Italy many years ago, a student came across a 400 year-old villa – still in use – that was built of simple wood, stucco and a tile roof. The student turned and asked his guide, an architect, “how is it your houses last so long?” Without hesitation, the guide exclaimed: “YOU MUST MANAGE THE WATER!”

Water, whether in the form of rain, leaky pipes, mold or mildew represents probably the single most destructive threat to your home’s value. Among the things to keep in mind as you design and build your home are:

• Site selection. Be aware of sites or areas that are prone to flooding.
• Roofing. Specify a quality, long lasting roof and hire experienced and licensed craftspeople who pay attention to flashing and all material joints.
• Building wrap will help your home’s overall insulation and minimize mold and mildew.
• Use gutters, downspouts and good site planning to get rainwater away from your house as quickly as possible
• Plumbing. Hire a qualified and licensed plumber, one who is skilled, and pays close attention to the supply as well as waste lines.
• HVAC. Make sure you have access to and regularly maintain the HVAC condensate pan. Have a float switch installed in the event the drain should get clogged.

Florida is a beautiful place to call home but the tropical climate calls for creative solutions for potential water problems. Choose an experienced Florida builder – Contact All State Homes.