NEW JERSEY HIGH TIDE HOME
In Verona, New Jersey, John Bianco and Phil DeStafano, founders of High Tide Home, have developed a prototype home capable of rising up to eight feet at the push of a button. This unique home, built with patented electric screw jacks instead of hydraulics, can be elevated prior to hurricane or flood events, ensuring the safety of personal belongings and the continued operation of businesses.
Inspired by the devastation of Hurricane Sandy, Bianco and DeStafano's invention features an app-controlled mechanism that smoothly lifts the house to the FEMA standard height of eight feet. The design includes a protective curtain to shield against debris and a French drain system to manage water accumulation.
The innovative home has received approval from the International Code Council, signifying its adherence to safety standards. The cost of constructing a home with this technology is comparable to traditional stilt houses, making it a viable option for flood-prone areas. The company is now preparing to implement its technology in several homes along the Jersey Shore.