New technology in the home building business is creating thousands of concrete homes. Today we take a look at their business and how they use technology to quickly build houses in South Florida.
It's no secret that in the US, we do not have enough homes. They're built slowly, they're expensive, and they're not very durable to natural disasters. But one company based in Florida is changing that narrative. Enter Onyx Homes; they're revolutionizing home construction by building thousands of homes within their factory, primarily made from concrete. This choice of material ensures that the homes are more durable to fire, wind, and water, addressing crucial concerns in disaster-prone areas.
Traditionally, homes in the US are stick-built on-site, a process that can take up to 10 months. However, with Onyx's factory production line, they can construct 2,000 square-foot concrete homes in just a month. But why concrete? While it may seem unconventional, it's a necessity in regions susceptible to fires, hurricanes, and floods. Stick-built homes simply don't offer the resilience needed to withstand these natural disasters, leading to skyrocketing insurance premiums and widespread property damage.
Onyx has already made significant strides in Florida, where they've built hundreds of these homes and sold out many neighborhoods. What's remarkable is their manufacturing process, which is largely conducted in their expansive factory. Here, everything from the walls to the bathroom pods and staircases is meticulously crafted with efficiency in mind.
The use of advanced technology, including machines for precise cuts and robots for heavy lifting, streamlines the construction process. Additionally, innovative materials like steel for roofs and concrete molds infused with foam insulation ensure both strength and sustainability. This combination of automation and craftsmanship allows Onyx to produce up to 20 bathroom pods a day, significantly accelerating the pace of construction.
Visiting their factory, one can witness the intricate process of pouring and curing concrete molds, as well as the assembly of various components. The efficiency of their production line extends to the installation phase, where fully finished bathroom pods and stairs are craned into place, ready for connection to the rest of the house.
The result? Homes that seamlessly blend modern comforts with unparalleled resilience. Onyx's Alba series of homes, starting at $500,000 for a five-bedroom, three-bath configuration, exemplifies this balance. From spacious living areas to generously sized bedrooms, these homes defy conventional expectations of durability and affordability.
While Onyx's approach may seem reminiscent of prefab construction, they differentiate themselves by being more akin to traditional home builders. They're not just selling a product; they're delivering fully realized homes at scale, addressing the pressing need for housing in America.
However, it's essential to address concerns regarding concrete's environmental impact. Historically, concrete production has been a significant emitter of CO2. Yet, Onyx is at the forefront of adopting green concrete technologies, such as those developed by Biomason. By leveraging bacteria to grow concrete, they're reducing CO2 emissions while enhancing the insulation properties of their homes.
In conclusion, Onyx Homes represents a paradigm shift in the construction industry. By embracing innovation and prioritizing resilience, they're not just building houses; they're building communities. And with plans to expand beyond Florida, their impact on addressing the housing crisis is poised to grow exponentially. So, what do you think of this approach to home construction? Let's continue the conversation.
