Coastal waves and flooding can exert strong hydrodynamic forces on any building element that is exposed to the waves or flow of water. The NFIP requires that all new buildings, substantially damaged buildings, and substantially improved buildings in Coastal High Hazard Areas (Zones V, VE, and V1030) be elevated to or above the base flood elevation (BFE) on open foundations consisting of piles, posts, piers, or columns. These open foundations must be designed to allow waves and water moving at high velocity to flow beneath buildings. 

NFIP regulations require that the area below the lowest floor of elevated buildings either be free of obstructions or have any enclosed areas be constructed of non-supporting breakaway walls, open lattice-work, or insect screening. The walls, lattice, or screening are intended to collapse under wave loads without causing collapse, displacement, or other structural damage to the elevated building or the supporting foundation system. Obstructions below an elevated building can significantly increase the potential for flood damage by increasing the surface area subject to wave impact and velocity flow.

At the conclusion of this course, the learner will have a better understanding of the principles of engineering and design of breakaway wall construction as well as an understanding of the following topics:

• Planning and design of breakaway wall systems
• Various regulations requirements for construction
• The potential effects of flood water damages
• The structural fabrication of breakaway walls
• Various flood-resistant construction materials