Eco Floating Homes: The Way Forward

Introduction

Overcrowded cities, grave environmental issues and several other factors have time and again driven our motive of making the world a better place to live in. The concept and innovation of eco-floating homes is one such aspect of modern-day thinking. 'Floating' in foundation engineering refers to the condition when the soil beneath the footing doesn't experience any extra load. Although traditionally houseboats (an example of floating homes) have existed, new construction and sustainability ideas have propped up with the change in time. The use of materials that aid sustainable development makes eco-floating homes a need for the present and future.

Construction

In the true sense, floating houses are those which don't require a foundation. The two basic principles of construction include the pontoon principle, where a solid platform, lighter than the water, is made and the other based on the ship, where a hollow box is made. The pontoon principle is helpful in its use in shallow water. To aid the rise of the house, while the change of tides takes place, the floating homes are connected to the quay. The base of the structure can take the live, dead and other loads encountered. Although providing services such as water supply, electricity and toilets are challenging, they can be overcome using green building concepts. The net-zero buildings are useful, as they don't require additional energy from an external source.

Advantages

1. These buildings will function even during periods when they remain cut off due to floods and have no external electricity and water.
2. These houses could also be combined with beautiful countryside and luxurious living conditions while consuming reduced energy and leaving a low carbon footprint.
3. Reduce land use for resident and ground disturbance as trenches do not have to be dug for pier walls.
4. Typically uses less concrete, hence less expensive and gives a modern lifestyle.

Disadvantages

1. It is extremely difficult to change house systems like plumbing and electricity later.
2. Threatens life in tornado-prone areas as there is a lack of an underground hiding place.


Conclusion

Eco floating homes will be the need for the future in coastal areas and flood-prone areas. There is a need to develop technology for moving houses that can be transported and built quickly, particularly during disasters or when relocation is needed for other reasons. These houses can provide a possible new form of resilient living if suitable features are applied according to the circumstances.

                                       

                                                                                     

WRITTEN BY:-Tanmay Dalal & Pradeep Behera

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