Types of construction

Block- This has typically been the most common form of construction of homes in Florida. Concrete blocks make up the majority of the primary outside walls. These blocks are secured to both the foundation and the trusses via steel rods located inside of the blocks. These blocks are then poured with cement to make a permanent bond between the foundation and the trussing system. Then the outside walls are wrapped in a one of several materials (plywood, plastic, etc.) and then covered with either stucco or other type of siding.
Concrete forms- This system is becoming more popular to use. It can be a little more costly on the front end but has a higher insulation factor than traditional block construction. It is similar to block construction but instead of laying concrete block a foam type of block is put in its place. Concrete is then poured into each cavity. The outside walls are wrapped in one of several materials (plywood, plastic, etc.) and finally covered with either stucco or another type of siding.
Wood Frame- This is a common method of construction in the other parts of the country. This system is built using wood studs which are attached to the foundation and the trussing system. Then the outside walls are wrapped in one of several materials (plywood, plastic, etc.) and covered with either stucco or another type of siding.
Steel Frame- This is also gaining in popularity because of new developments in high wind load resistant designs. Steel frame is constructed in a similar fashion as wood framing.
Foundations- The foundation is a category in itself. Each home may require a different type of foundation generally in one of two types, monolithic or stem wall. Foundations in Florida are generally different then ones built in other parts of the country. Owners will joke about wanting a basement in Florida. However, basements in many parts of Florida are possible. Generally you won't see basements because of the affordability of building common floor space.
Monolithic- A system where a footer (about 24" to 36" wide/deep) and the foundation slab (about 4" to 6" deep) is dug over the entire foundation. The plumbing is then put into place and the entire slab is reinforced with a type of steel or mesh. The concrete is then poured to level.
Stem Wall- This is a system similar to that of a basement construction but with no crawl space or basement to access. A type of footer is dug (anywhere from 36" to 60"+) and then concrete blocks are laid until they reach the top of the slab. The blocks and the slab are poured in two separate pours. (NOTE: Stem wall foundations are not necessarily any better then a monolithic foundation.) Stem wall foundations are generally used with uneven property lots, where one side of the foundation is higher then the other.

Resource Links

Wood Frame

Steel Frame