Designing the Resilient Home  

Photo courtesy of The Propane Education & Research Council

This resilient home near Charleston, S.C., is prepared for weather events and emergencies with propane back-up power and critical home systems.

As extreme weather events and power outages become more frequent, architects must design homes that withstand and adapt to these conditions. This course equips design professionals with strategies to enhance residential resilience through smart design, durable materials, and reliable energy systems. It covers structural reinforcements, moisture- and impact-resistant components, and energy independence solutions—such as clean fuels like propane that support both resilience and everyday living. Real-world case studies, including projects in hurricane-prone Puerto Rico, show how to integrate reliable fuel, reduce reliance on unstable grid infrastructure, and improve occupant safety and comfort before, during, and after emergencies.

The Emotional and Financial Toll of Weather Disasters

Weather related events and natural disasters across North America impose significant financial and emotional costs on homeowners. In 2024, the United States experienced 27 verified billion-dollar weather and natural disasters, encompassing hurricanes, severe storms, and wildfires, resulting in tremendous financial losses.¹ In 2023, insurers covered $80 billion of the $114 billion in losses from natural catastrophes, leaving 30 percent of damages uninsured.²

As hurricanes, wildfires, floods, and temperature extremes become more frequent and intense, many homeowners struggle to rebuild their homes and lives, often facing displacement. The psychological toll includes increased cases of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety, particularly among individuals who have lost their homes.

Financial pressures compound emotional hardship. Insurance premiums for homeowners have surged; from 2020 to 2023, average premiums rose by over 30 percent. The Brookings Institution notes that insurers have exited states such as California and Florida due to mounting climate risks, leaving many properties uninsured and exposed. These difficulties ripple beyond individual households, weakening entire communities and leading to social disintegration and long-term economic hardship. Natural disasters thus impact mental health, financial resilience, and overall quality of life long after the initial event.

The Importance of Resilient Homes

Architects must make resilience a primary design objective to safeguard homes against extreme weather. Today’s homeowners seek structures that can endure natural disasters and remain functional during extended power outages. A resilient home protects occupants and reduces both damages and recovery costs.

Energy independence is a fundamental aspect of resilience. Given increasing grid instability, architects should integrate energy sources such as propane, which reliably powers essential appliances, heating systems, and backup generators during electrical outages. Propane is also an efficient and clean energy source for daily living. This ideal energy solution serves as a clean, efficient primary energy source, supporting both sustainability goals and long-term operational reliability in the home.

Structural Integrity: Designing for Weather Resilience

Architectural resilience begins with a robust structural system. Homes must be engineered to withstand a range of threats.

Designing Homes to Withstand High Winds and Hurricanes

Architects are pivotal in designing homes that can resist high winds and hurricanes. Key considerations include structural systems, building aerodynamics, energy selection, appliance selection, site planning, and material selection.

Structural Systems: A reinforced framework forms the basis of a hurricane-resistant home. Reinforced concrete and steel framing are ideal due to their ability to withstand extreme wind forces. For wood-framed structures, using hurricane straps and anchor bolts that firmly attach roofs and walls to the foundation is essential. A continuous load path ensures walls, floors, and roofs are securely interconnected to distribute wind pressures evenly and mitigate structural failure.

Aerodynamic Features: Building shape greatly influences wind resilience. Hip roofs, with slopes on all sides, perform better under wind pressure than gable roofs. Roof pitches between 30 and 45 degrees deflect rather than resist wind forces. Overhangs should be minimized or strengthened, as they are vulnerable to wind uplift.³ Circular and hexagonal structures disperse wind pressures more effectively than rectangular forms.⁴

Energy Selection: Selecting the right energy source is essential for resilience and everyday performance. While grid electricity can fail during storms and natural gas service may be interrupted, propane offers a consistent, on-site solution that supports daily needs like heating, cooking, and hot water. Its reliability during outages is an unparalleled bonus. Propane delivers clean, efficient energy year-round as a primary and back-up fuel while ensuring homes stay powered and comfortable before, during, and after extreme weather events.

Appliance Selection: Appliances must be specified to operate on the fuel most advantageous to resiliency. Propane appliances offer critical advantages for emergencies and everyday performance. Because propane is stored on-site in secure tanks, it supports essential household functions such as cooking, water heating, space heating, and clothes drying without dependence on an external power supply. This decentralized energy model ensures continuous operation even if the electrical grid is compromised.

Modern propane appliances deliver high efficiency and fast recovery times. Tankless water heaters, for example, achieve thermal efficiencies of up to 98 percent, providing unlimited hot water with minimal standby losses. Propane space heating systems, including direct-vent wall furnaces and hydronic boilers, offer precise temperature control and higher fuel efficiency than electric models, particularly in colder climates.

Appliance options include ranges, ovens, dryers, water heaters, fireplaces, standby generators, and outdoor living amenities. Each is engineered for high performance, extended service life, and low maintenance. Integrating propane-fueled systems into residential projects enhances operational reliability while supporting energy efficiency and emissions reduction goals.

Site Planning: Proper site selection and thoughtful landscaping can reduce wind damage. Orienting the structure to minimize exposure to prevailing winds enhances resilience. Strategically planted trees and shrubs can perform as windbreaks; however, large trees should be positioned far from the structure to prevent damage if they fall.

Specifying Durable Materials to Withstand Extreme Weather

Photo courtesy of The Propane Education & Research Council

With back-up power generation, homes can function when the grid goes down.

In regions susceptible to hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, and extreme temperature fluctuations, architects must strongly emphasize durability in their design choices. The selection of high-performance materials significantly enhances a building’s resilience to these forces of nature, reduces long-term maintenance demands, and ensures the safety and well-being of its occupants throughout increasingly frequent and severe weather events.

Reinforced Concrete and Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs)—Reinforced concrete remains one of the most robust materials against high winds, debris impacts, and fire. Combining concrete with rigid insulation, ICFs provide superior structural strength and energy efficiency. These materials are highly effective in hurricane- and tornado-prone regions.

Impact-Resistant Roofing and Siding: Roofing must withstand hail, heavy winds, and heat. Metal roofs are durable, fire-resistant, and less likely to suffer wind uplift than asphalt shingles. Alternatives include class 4 impact-rated shingles, concrete tiles, and composite roofing products. Fiber cement and brick veneer provide excellent fire, impact, and moisture resistance for siding. Vinyl siding, prone to brittleness and detachment during storms, should be avoided.

Storm-Resistant Windows and Doors: High-performance windows and doors are critical in harsh weather environments. Laminated impact-resistant glass with a polyvinyl butyral (PVB) interlayer prevents breakage during high-wind events. Windows and doors should have wind-pressure ratings and durable framing materials like aluminum or fiberglass are preferable. Architects should also recommend installing storm shutters or reinforced window coverings for additional security. Reinforced garage doors prevent pressure buildup that can compromise the structure.

Moisture-Resistant Materials: In flood-prone areas, selecting water-resistant materials prevents mold growth and structural degradation. FEMA endorses non-paper-faced gypsum board for enhanced moisture resistance compared to traditional gypsum board.  FEMA also recommends closed-cell spray foam insulation as the only type suitable for floodwater exposure. Concrete, ceramic tile, and pressure-treated wood are preferred for flooring as they resist water damage more effectively than untreated wood flooring. Incorporating these materials improves a home’s ability to endure flooding events.

Fasteners and Anchoring Systems: Even the most resilient materials require secure attachment. Architects should specify hurricane-rated fasteners, anchor bolts, and tie-downs to reinforce the roof, walls, and foundation. Roof tie-downs significantly reduce the risk of damage during storms. FEMA estimates that every $1 spent on mitigation saves $6 in future disaster losses.⁵ Properly installed hurricane clips help secure the roof to the structure, enhancing overall stability.

The Fortified Home Program: Lower Insurance Rates Through Stronger Construction

The Fortified Home Program, developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), provides guidelines for strengthening homes against severe weather, potentially resulting in lower insurance costs. It outlines construction and retrofitting techniques that improve resilience against hurricanes, high winds, and hail.

Fortified Home Certification Levels

• Fortified Roof: Focuses on improving roof resilience with stronger decking, sealed seams, and impact-resistant materials.
• Fortified Silver: Adds enhancements to windows, doors, and exterior attachments beyond roof improvements.
• Fortified Gold: Requires a continuous load path that fortifies the entire home against extreme forces.

Benefits of Fortified Homes

Fortified Homes experience fewer damages, leading to lower insurance claims. Homeowners in states like Alabama, Louisiana, and North Carolina may qualify for reduced premiums. Some states also offer grants and tax incentives to help offset the cost of upgrading to Fortified standards. Beyond reduced insurance premiums, Fortified Homes offer improved safety, lower repair costs, and increased property value. A Fortified certification provides valuable peace of mind and tangible financial benefits as climate-related disasters intensify. Design professionals can learn more about the program and potential savings at fortifiedhome.org.

Fire-Resistant Design

Architects today must shape homes that are not only visually compelling but also inherently prepared for weather events and natural disasters. Incorporating fire-resistant materials and design strategies enhances a home’s ability to survive wildfires. Here are some ideas:

Noncombustible Roofing: Choosing fire-resistant roofing materials, such as metal, clay tile, or Class A-rated asphalt shingles, increases protection against airborne embers and limits flame spread. Metal and clay tiles offer superior durability and resistance, while Class A-rated shingles provide the highest level of fire protection. These materials are essential in mitigating fire risks, particularly in wildfire-prone areas, and ensuring the structural integrity of buildings during extreme fire events.

Fire-Resistant Siding: Noncombustible siding materials like fiber cement, stucco, and brick minimize the risk of fire spreading to a home’s exterior.

Fire-Resistant Windows: According to CAL FIRE (California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection), dual-glazed windows made with tempered glass are essential in providing enhanced resistance to both heat and airborne embers during wildfires. Tempered glass windows, by design, are stronger than standard glass and can withstand higher temperatures, significantly reducing the risk of fire intrusion into the building. Additionally, dual-glazing increases insulation, which helps to maintain interior temperatures during extreme heat.

Protected Vents: Cal Fire recommends covering vents with 1/16-inch to 1/8-inch noncombustible, corrosion-resistant metal mesh to block embers. Fiberglass or plastic mesh should be avoided, as these materials can melt. Keep in mind that these fire safety upgrades may impact airflow and ventilation to attics and underfloor spaces. (Before making modifications, consult the local building authority for ventilation guidelines.) Another technology is ember-resistant vents with intumescent coatings, which automatically seal under extreme heat to prevent ember intrusion into attics and crawlspaces, enhancing resilience in wildfire-prone homes.

Defensible Landscaping: Establishing a defensible space around the home using noncombustible elements such as gravel or concrete, alongside planting fire-resistant vegetation, helps lower the risk of ignition. A well-designed landscape layout limits the chances of flames reaching the structure.

Sprinkler Systems and Fireproof Seals: Installing sprinklers in attics and along exterior walls can control fires before they escalate, while using fire-resistant caulking and sealing materials helps block embers from penetrating small gaps and cracks.

Flood and Water Damage Mitigation

In many areas, flooding presents a serious design challenge. To protect homes and improve their durability, architects must apply flood-resilient strategies. The following approaches can help minimize damage and strengthen performance:

Elevated Construction: Elevating homes above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) substantially reduces the threat of flood damage. Piers, stilts, or raised foundations allow floodwaters to pass underneath rather than infiltrate living spaces.

Flood-Resistant Materials: Materials like concrete, pressure-treated wood, and closed-cell spray foam insulation enhance a home’s ability to withstand extended water exposure. These materials resist mold, warping, and structural weakening during flooding events.

Drainage Solutions: Proper drainage systems prevent water accumulation near a home’s foundation. Permeable driveways allow water to percolate into the ground, French drains divert excess water away from structures, and sump pumps actively expel water from basements and crawl spaces.

Waterproof Barriers: Applying waterproof coatings and sealants to foundations, basements, and exterior walls protects against water intrusion, reducing the risk of structural degradation and interior damage during floods.

Backflow Prevention Valves: Severe floods can overwhelm sewer systems, causing contaminated water to back up into homes. Installing one-way backflow prevention valves in plumbing systems can block wastewater from entering through drains and toilets.

Snow and Ice Protection

To maintain building integrity and improve energy efficiency in snowy areas where record-breaking snow load are common, architects must integrate specific strategies to protect the structure year around.

Steep Roof Pitches: Roofs with steep slopes, particularly those exceeding 40 degrees, help snow slide off naturally, minimizing the risk of heavy snow buildup that could cause structural damage. FEMA recommends that buildings in snowy climates have roofs with at least a 40-degree slope to promote snow shedding. Besides helping protect against wildfires, metal roofing is also an ideal material selection to help with natural snow shedding on roofs.

Heated Roofing Systems: Electric or hydronic heated roofing systems prevent ice dam formation along eaves and gutters. Ice dams occur when rooftop snow melts and refreezes at colder edges, causing water backups. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, installing heating cables in critical areas can maintain even roof temperatures. Hydronic systems, using heated water through tubing, offer an energy-efficient alternative to electric models.

Load-Bearing Capacity: Designing roofs with adequate load-bearing strength is vital in regions with heavy snow. Reinforced trusses and structures help evenly distribute snow weight, preventing collapse. The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) advises tailoring roof designs to local snow load data. Proper assessments and reinforcements can vastly improve structural resilience.

High-Efficiency Windows: Triple-glazed windows filled with argon gas improve insulation, minimizing heat transfer and interior condensation. This prevents interior ice buildup and maintains indoor comfort. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that triple-glazed windows offer superior insulation compared to double-glazed varieties, boosting energy efficiency and minimizing cold air infiltration.

Energy-Efficient Insulation: Effective insulation helps prevent heat loss that causes uneven rooftop snowmelt and refreezing at the eaves, leading to ice dams. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that heating and cooling costs can be reduced by an average of 15 percent by air-sealing and adding insulation in accessible basement rim joists, crawl spaces, and attics.

Energy Independence and Fuel Sources

Photo courtesy of The Propane Education & Research Council

Resilient homes include fire-resistant, flood-resistant, and wind-resistant materials and design.

Architects designing for true resilience must prioritize energy independence and fuel diversification. Homes that rely solely on centralized power systems are vulnerable during crises, risking blackouts, shortages, and prolonged emergencies. To ensure long-term durability and performance, it’s crucial to select fuel sources that are not only reliable during extreme weather but also superior for everyday use. Integrating self-sufficiency at the core of the design ensures a home’s resilience, providing both the safety and ongoing functionality needed to thrive through both normal conditions and unexpected disruptions.

Grid Failure During Extreme Weather, Heat, and Cold

Unpredictable climate patterns and extreme weather events frequently overwhelm power grids, leading to outages that disrupt daily life, compromise safety, and strain critical infrastructure. These risks make it imperative for architects to incorporate resilient energy strategies that ensure homes remain operational during grid failures.

As heatwaves intensify, the demand for electricity to operate air conditioners surges, placing significant stress on power stations and transmission lines. Overloaded systems can trigger rolling blackouts or complete failures. High temperatures also degrade electrical components, increasing the risk of mechanical breakdowns. Wildfires—common during extreme heat—can further damage power lines and substations, compounding outages and prolonging recovery efforts.

Severe cold exerts a different but equally significant strain on energy infrastructure. Heating demands rise sharply, while freezing conditions can damage transmission lines, disrupt fuel supplies, and hinder the operation of natural gas and coal plants. Ice storms and blizzards routinely bring down power lines, and frozen infrastructure can prevent critical facilities from operating at full capacity, destabilizing the grid even further.

The Critical Role of Backup Power

Maintaining household operations during disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, and winter storms is crucial. Power supports essential systems, including refrigeration, lighting, communication devices, and medical equipment. In climate-resilient design, backup power is not a luxury but a necessity.

Backup solutions include portable and standby generators. Portable units offer flexibility and affordability but require manual operation and regular refueling. Standby generators, activate automatically during outages to provide continuous power. Propane offers specific advantages, including long shelf life, clean combustion, and availability even during fuel supply disruptions.

Battery storage systems paired with solar panels provide another resilient option. Solar batteries deliver quiet, low-maintenance energy, ensuring vital household systems continue functioning without reliance on external fuel sources. For maximum resilience, hybrid systems that integrate a propane-powered backup generator, solar panels, and battery storage offer continuous, long-term power during extended outages.

As climate-related disasters become more frequent and severe, architects must embed reliable backup power solutions into their designs to safeguard building occupants’ health, safety, and comfort.

The Texas “Big Freeze” and Increased Propane Backup

Following Winter Storm Uri in February 2021, which caused widespread power outages across Texas, many residents relied on propane-powered generators to protect against future disruptions. A study funded by the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) found that the storm prompted a significant increase in demand for these generators as a reliable backup power solution during severe weather events.⁶

The study, aimed at assessing consumer confidence in the electric grid, found that 23 percent of over 4,000 respondents purchased a generator in the past two years, while 54 percent have considered doing so.

Ed and Stacy Vega of Austin, Texas, purchased a backup generator for their home following the 2021 freeze when they suffered in the dark and cold for almost five days. “We just couldn’t bear the thought of going through another storm without power,” said Stacy. “After doing our research, we decided to install a propane-powered generator since propane is easy to store on our property. We also liked the fact that it is cleaner than diesel and is better for the environment.”

“Electricity is a fundamental resource, and when it’s not available, propane can reliably and safely fill the gap,” said PERC President and CEO Tucker Perkins. “Propane-powered generators can keep the lights on when the grid goes down, making them an excellent solution for ensuring resiliency.”

Why Propane?

Photo courtesy of The Propane Education & Research Council

Homeowners are more protected from weather events and grid interruptions with an independent energy source such as propane.

When selecting a fuel for portable or backup generators, as well as for daily operation of the home, key considerations include storage stability, maintenance requirements, and environmental impact. Among common fuels—gasoline, diesel, natural gas, and propane—propane stands out for its long shelf life, low emissions, and low maintenance demands.7

While readily available, gasoline degrades within a few months due to oxidation and evaporation, forming gums and varnish that can clog carburetors and fuel lines. This degradation produces a sour odor and risks engine damage and starting difficulties. Even with stabilizers, gasoline’s shelf life extends only up to a year. Moreover, its volatility and flammability pose storage challenges. ​

Diesel offers better storage stability than gasoline and is efficient for heavy-duty applications. However, it can still degrade over time, leading to microbial growth and sludge formation, which can clog filters and injectors. Diesel engines also require regular maintenance to manage soot and particulate buildup.​

Natural gas provides a continuous fuel supply when connected to utility lines, making it convenient for standby generators. However, its dependence on infrastructure can be a limitation during widespread outages, and it is unsuitable for portable applications.​

Propane emerges as a superior choice for both portable and standby generators, as well as for everyday use. Recognized by the EPA as a clean energy, propane maintains its composition over long periods, ensuring reliability even after extended storage. This stability reduces engine deposits and minimizes maintenance needs. Propane is less volatile than gasoline, making it safer to store. Additionally, propane is stored on-site, providing a significant advantage when roads are impassable during emergencies. Propane generators can often be connected directly to an existing household system for extended runtimes, making it an ideal, low-maintenance fuel for long-term generator readiness.

Renewable Propane

Photo courtesy of The Propane Education & Research Council

Propane stored onsite does not degrade like gasoline and diesel and is ready for use even when the electrical grid goes down or natural gas is shut off.

Renewable propane provides the same benefits as conventional propane—reliability, portability, efficient power, and low emissions—but with an even smaller carbon footprint compared to traditional fuels.

Unlike conventional propane, renewable propane is derived from sustainable sources. It is primarily a byproduct of renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel, made from plant oils, animal fats, or used cooking oils. Its carbon intensity (CI), which is the amount of carbon emitted per unit of energy, is lower than that of conventional propane due to its bio-based production methods.

Producers are making more renewable propane from camelina seed oil. Camelina, or Camelina sativa, belongs to the mustard family and is related to cabbage, cauliflower, and kale. Because it is not a food crop, camelina does not compete with food production. Currently grown in cooler U.S. regions, camelina is expanding to southern areas through new, heat-tolerant varieties. This crop is drought- and pest-resistant and is a pollinator for bees.

Camelina produces no waste: 40 percent of the seed yields oil, twice that of soybeans, while processors use the remaining meal as FDA-approved livestock feed and repurpose the husks as mulch. It also enriches the soil and prevents erosion during fallow periods, providing farmers with extra income without the need for new equipment. Renewable propane from this oil scores lower in CI than the electric grid in 49 states. Renewable propane from non-camelina sources has a lower CI score in 45 states.⁸

Image courtesy of The Propane Education & Research Council

Propane stored onsite does not degrade like gasoline and is ready for use even when the electrical grid goes down or natural gas is shut off.

The CI of renewable propane depends on the feedstock and production method used. Still, it consistently produces a lower carbon footprint when compared to conventional fuels, making it a powerful solution for a more sustainable, resilient energy future.

For example, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) states that renewable propane produced from domestic, non-rendered used cooking oil has a carbon intensity score of 20.5 grams of CO2 equivalent per megajoule (gCO2eq/MJ). In contrast, conventional propane has a carbon intensity score of 79 gCO2eq/MJ, which is lower than many other energy sources but still higher than renewable alternatives. Global Clean Energy, a company producing renewable fuel from camelina, also claims its product has a carbon intensity score of 7 gCO2eq/MJ. While CARB has validated the renewable propane score, the camelina-based claim from Global Clean Energy is pending certification by regulatory bodies such as the EPA and CARB.⁹

Renewable propane is currently being produced in the U.S. Fuel processors are already manufacturing it, and the growing demand for cleaner liquid fuels, such as sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel, is expected to boost the production of renewable propane significantly. According to the World LP Gas Association, by 2050, renewable propane could fulfill up to 50 percent of global propane demand.

Image courtesy of The Propane Education & Research Council

Propane stored onsite does not degrade like gasoline and is ready for use even when the electrical grid goes down or natural gas is shut off.

Businesses Install Propane-Powered Systems for Reliability

In response, businesses like Rincon Beach Resort have turned to propane-powered generation systems for reliable, uninterrupted power. 2G installed a 240-kW CHP system that uses propane as its power source, and the resort has been able to continue its routine operations during more recent storms, including Hurricane Fiona in September 2022. Burgos says his company has installed systems in Puerto Rico totaling 12 megawatts, primarily for pharmaceutical companies that can’t risk losing power for even a few minutes. 

“While we also use liquefied natural gas (LNG) to power our systems, I find we’re leaning more and more towards the use of propane when possible,” said Burgos. “We’re seeing a 20-22% increase in efficiency from newer propane engines compared to LNG, making it a more cost-effective choice for 2G and our customers.” In addition, Burgos says the logistics and distribution for propane are better developed than for LNG. It’s also five times more expensive to build LNG infrastructure. 

Propane is a Clean Option for Power Generation

2G also considers the cleanliness of its power sources. However, Burgos says they must choose clean solutions that are realistic to use in Puerto Rico, like propane and LNG. “As an example, you’re not going to see us use a hydrogen-powered engine here since production and distribution are not available at scale on the island.” Propane is their fuel of choice because it’s significantly cleaner than diesel and is easy to transport and store. Puerto Rico’s current electric grid runs primarily on gasoline and diesel, making it a less environmentally friendly option. 

Burgos says his company is constantly evolving to provide the best assets for its customers. “There’s a cost associated with resiliency,” said Burgos. “The grid fluctuations cost facilities too much money, and investing in an off-grid solution is a small price to pay compared to the millions of dollars that can be lost during a grid event. The added cost for our CHP systems typically pays for itself within one week to one month, depending on the grid event and type of business.” 

Using propane to power these systems gives customers reliable and abundant power and allows businesses to work towards emissions reduction goals and provide better air quality for their employees and customers.

Designing Resilient Homes with Integrated Propane Systems

Photo courtesy of The Propane Education & Research Council

Specifying appliances that run on propane for everyday living as well as power outages is key to designing a resilient home.

Propane emerges as a versatile and reliable energy source as architects pursue more resilient and energy-diverse residential designs. Propane’s ability to operate independently of the electrical grid makes it an ideal complement to sustainable, disaster-ready homes. To fully harness its benefits, architects should consider specifying the following key design elements:

Whole-House Propane Generators: Specifying an automatic, whole-house propane generator ensures uninterrupted power supply during outages, maintaining critical home systems such as refrigeration, security, and medical equipment. According to the Propane Education & Research Center, propane generators offer longer run times than gasoline or diesel models and can be integrated discreetly into the home’s exterior landscape.

Propane Water Heating: Architects can enhance energy efficiency by incorporating tankless propane water heaters. These systems provide on-demand hot water, eliminating standby energy losses common with traditional storage tanks. Propane water heaters are faster at heating and can reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to electric alternatives.¹⁰

Propane Cooking Appliances: Incorporating propane stoves and ovens into kitchen designs ensures that culinary functionality is maintained even during grid failures. Professional chefs often prefer propane for its precise temperature control and immediate heat response, which can elevate the residential cooking experience.

Propane Fireplaces: Propane fireplaces provide an efficient and aesthetically flexible heating solution, ideal for use during electrical disruptions. Unlike wood-burning fireplaces, they require minimal maintenance and offer cleaner indoor air quality, making them appealing for luxury and sustainable homes.

Hybrid HVAC Systems: Designing homes with hybrid HVAC systems—pairing high-efficiency propane furnaces with electric heat pumps—maximizes energy performance and year-round comfort. In colder climates, propane furnaces provide superior heating capabilities when heat pump efficiency declines, ensuring reliable thermal comfort.

Propane-Powered Outdoor Living Spaces: Propane extends residential functionality to outdoor environments. Outdoor kitchens equipped with propane grills, patio heaters, and fire features create year-round livable spaces, encouraging greater use of exterior areas and enhancing property value.

By thoughtfully integrating propane across multiple home systems, architects can design residences that are not only energy-resilient but also adaptable to a range of climate and emergency scenarios. Propane’s flexibility, reliability, and low-carbon profile are key components of future-ready home design.

Sizing a Backup Generator for Grid Outages

Correctly sizing a propane backup generator involves assessing the electrical load of essential home systems during an outage. Start by calculating the running wattage for critical appliances such as refrigerators, lighting, climate control, and medical equipment. Include additional capacity to accommodate startup surges, particularly for major appliances like air conditioners. ¹¹

Typically, a 7,000 to 10,000-watt generator covers basic residential needs—lights, refrigeration, and heating. Larger residences or those with greater power demands may require generators rated up to 20,000 watts. Fuel consumption must also be considered: a 7,500-watt generator typically uses around 0.87 gallons of propane per hour at half load or 1.2 gallons of propane per hour at full load. Over a 24-hour operation, this equates to approximately 10 gallons of propane at half load.¹² To ensure resilience during extended outages, according to the Propane Education & Research Council, homeowners should maintain a 100- to 200-gallon reserve. Strategic planning and routine maintenance ensure propane generators remain operational during climate emergencies.

Passive Design and Technology Strategies for Resilient Architecture

In a world increasingly shaped by climate events, passive design strategies have become essential tools for architects seeking to create resilient, sustainable homes. By harmonizing buildings with their natural environment, architects can elevate comfort, minimize energy consumption, and significantly enhance a structure’s ability to withstand extreme weather events.

Solar Orientation: Remains the foundation of passive resilience. Thoughtful site planning and building orientation maximize solar gain in winter and mitigate heat absorption in summer. Expansive south-facing glazing invites low-angle winter sun deep into interiors, reducing heating demands, while carefully designed overhangs or shading systems prevent summer overheating.

Thermal mass: Utilizing concrete, stone, and brick materials effectively manages temperature. These materials capture and retain heat throughout the day, gradually releasing it as the temperature cools in the evening. The result is a naturally moderated indoor climate, reducing dependence on mechanical systems and promoting year-round comfort.

Cross-Ventilation: Transforms natural airflow into an architectural asset. By aligning operable windows or vents across opposing elevations, architects can channel prevailing breezes, promoting passive cooling and improving air quality, all while reducing the need for energy-intensive air conditioning.

Green Roofs and Living Walls: Introduce nature into the built environment while enhancing performance. These systems insulate, manage stormwater runoff, and mitigate urban heat island effects.  Beyond their practical advantages, green roofs and living walls enhance aesthetics and biophilic design, effortlessly combining sustainability with visual appeal.

Natural Daylighting: Strategically curated through clerestories, skylights, and well-placed glazing, reduces dependence on artificial lighting. Beyond energy savings, daylight fosters healthier, more inspiring living spaces, enhancing well-being.

Smart Home Automation: Elevating Resilience Through Technology

Incorporating smart home technologies into residential design can dramatically increase a home’s resilience, offering a seamless fusion of innovation, safety, and sustainability. In regions susceptible to extreme weather, intelligent systems provide a critical layer of protection and autonomy, even during grid failures.

Automated Storm Shutters: Represent a sophisticated defense against high-wind events. These systems, triggered automatically by sensors detecting elevated wind speeds, shield glazing, and maintain structural integrity. Remote control capabilities ensure proactive protection, enabling homeowners to secure their properties from anywhere.

Smart Generators: Characterize an indispensable component of resilient design. Connected to home networks, these systems provide automatic backup power, monitor propane levels, track energy usage, and deliver real-time alerts for maintenance or refueling, ensuring reliable operation when needed most.

Leak Detection Systems: Offer an intelligent safeguard against water damage. Integrated sensors monitor moisture levels within plumbing networks, automatically shutting off water supplies at the first sign of a leak—an invaluable feature for homes in flood-prone areas or during unoccupied periods. Propane tank monitors also provide leak sensors, and are remotely monitored.

Remote Temperature Management: Allows residents to optimize their indoor climate from afar. Whether adjusting thermostat settings during a blackout or managing energy loads more efficiently, remote control enhances comfort and conserves resources.

Backup-Powered Security Systems: Ensure critical safety measures, including cameras, alarms, and communication networks, remain fully operational during power outages. Many contemporary systems leverage battery and solar backups, as well as propone-powered back-up generator, delivering uninterrupted protection and peace of mind.

By integrating intelligent automation, architects can design energy-efficient homes that respond dynamically to environmental stressors—ushering in a new era of resilient, future-ready living.

Conclusion

In conclusion, architects are pivotal in shaping homes that are aesthetically pleasing, resilient, and adaptable to the demands of an unpredictable climate. By incorporating robust structural reinforcements, high-performance materials, and reliable energy solutions such as propane, architects can design homes that remain safe, functional, and comfortable in extreme weather events. Incorporating passive design techniques and renewable energy solutions strengthens a home’s energy autonomy, minimizing dependence on external power grids during outages. As the frequency and intensity of climate challenges escalate, resilient architecture will undoubtedly become the industry standard, ensuring that homes are enduring and provide a secure and sustainable living environment for future generations. This proactive approach to design reflects a commitment to both innovation and long-term environmental stewardship.

END NOTES

1. “Billion-Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters: U.S. Summary.” National Centers for Environmental Information. Web. 1 Apr. 2025.
2. “Climate Change, Disaster Risk, and Homeowner’s Insurance.” Congressional Budget Office. Aug. 2024. Web: 1 May 2025.
3. “Best Practices for Resilient Home Design." 2020. National Institute of Building Sciences.  Web. 1 May 2025. 
4. “Wind Loads on Structures.” American Society of Civil Engineers Press. 2020
5. “Mitigation for Homeowners.” Federal Emergency Management Agency, U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Web: 1 May 2025. 
6. “Customers Turn to Microgrids, Backup Generators to Avoid Blackouts.” Propane Education & Research Council. 18 July 2024. Web: 1 May 2025.
7. “Alternative Fuels Data Center.” U.S. Department of Energy. Web: May 1, 2025.
8. “Renewable Propane.” Propane Education & Research Council. 2024. Web: 1 May 2025. 
9. “Global Clean Energy Overview." Global Clean Energy Holdings, Inc. 2024. Web: May 1, 2025.
10. “How Long Will It Take a Water Heater to Heat Up?” Propane Education & Research Council. Web: 1 May 2025.
11. “Pro Standby Generator Sizing Tool.” Generac Power Systems. Web: 1 May 2025.
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Kathy Price-Robinson writes about building and design. Her remodeling series “Pardon Our Dust” ran for 12 years in the Los Angeles Times. She specializes in writing about buildings that are durable and resilient to climate disruptions, as well as products and designs that provide shade in hot climates. www.kathyprice.com