Society
Why are houses built with wood in the United States? Here are the reasons
As fires rage across California, it’s no surprise that wooden property is more vulnerable, so why are they still built with this material?
In addition to using forest products to make furniture, flooring, and paper, wood is widely used in the United States for home construction, making it one of the few places in the world where wood is the dominant material for building houses.
However, this choice is often questioned because wood is more vulnerable to hurricanes, tornadoes, fires and other disasters. Here’s why the U.S. continues to build homes with wood.
Why wood is still used in the US for house building
The preference for wood in American construction is based on several key factors. Here are the most important ones:
Speed of construction
From the time European settlers arrived in the United States, wood became a popular building material due to the urgent need for a large number of homes in a short period. One of wood’s greatest advantages is the speed it offers for construction, significantly faster than building with concrete or brick.
Ease of construction
Another major benefit is that wooden homes are simpler to construct. The market even offers pre-designed plans and kits that allow homeowners to build their own houses.
Availability and cost
The U.S. is rich in forests and mountains, making wood a readily accessible material. This abundance keeps prices relatively low. Additionally, wood is easier to transport compared to heavier materials like concrete and brick.
American mobility
Studies show that Americans tend to move houses up to five times in their lifetime. The affordability and quick construction of wooden homes make it easier to relocate or change homes without major complications.
Lower taxes
A significant advantage of building wooden homes is that property taxes are lower for houses constructed with wood compared to those made with brick or concrete. Houses made from these more durable materials are valued higher, leading to increased tax burdens.
Are wooden houses safe?
While wood is more vulnerable in certain situations, it is a flexible material capable of withstanding low-intensity earthquakes or minor tornadoes. In regions prone to stronger hurricanes or tornadoes, wooden homes often include brick basements that serve as shelters.
Additionally, if a wooden house sustains damage, it is cheaper and faster to repair compared to homes made of other materials. This cost-effectiveness adds to wood’s appeal despite its vulnerabilities.
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