NORTH FORT MYERS, Fla — Lochmoor Waterway Estates residents lift homes to fight flooding, signaling a positive shift in how this community responds to the threats posed by natural disasters. After facing severe storm surges during recent hurricanes, the proactive approach of elevating homes has transformed their neighborhood. A drive through the area reveals houses gradually lifted above potential floodwaters, showcasing resilience and innovation in the face of nature’s fury.
RISING ABOVE: Lochmoor Waterway Estates residents lift homes to fight flooding
In a striking drone video captured by a neighbor, the aftermath of Hurricane Milton is vividly portrayed—the mundane streets submerged, floodwaters invading the living spaces of countless homes. Dick Marting’s experience is a poignant reminder of the harsh realities faced by many. After enduring two feet of water in his home during Hurricane Helene, it was disheartening to witness another flood from Milton merely ten days later. The repeated loss echoed in the neighborhood, leaving residents yearning for a solution.
When considering his options for rebuilding, Marting was faced with tough decisions. “The house either needed to be torn down and rebuilt,” he recounted, “or I could sell it as is, a house that had flooded, likely for a lesser amount, since someone else would have to tear it down. Or, we could lift it, which was the choice we finally made.” His determination to rise above adversity is palpable, showcasing the spirit of those who have faced such trials.
Marting, gesturing towards the waterline on his home, illustrates the gravity of his choices. While he navigates the permitting process, many neighbors have already begun their transformations, elevating their homes to safer heights. Chris Ellis, Operations Supervisor at Davie Shoring, guided Marting through the intricate details of the lifting process. “We dig around the house, creating tunnels underneath, then push down our Perma-Lock pilings. This stable foundation allows us to place jacks that gradually lift the house, using crib blocks and frames to reach the desired height,” Ellis elaborated.
With a calm confidence, Ellis highlighted the benefits of lifting homes—not only does it protect against flooding, but it can also increase property value, especially if a garage is converted into living space. Since the devastation of Hurricane Ian, requests for home lifts in Southwest Florida, including Lochmoor Waterway Estates, have surged. “There’s a change. We need to adapt, and going up is the logical choice,” Ellis remarked. Many homeowners have faced the grim prospect of starting anew, a process fraught with financial burden and time. Lifting offers a viable alternative for those who wish to preserve their homes without starting from scratch.
Typically, the process of lifting a home spans around 18 weeks. Marting, hopeful for the future, expressed his enthusiasm to begin this journey. “We’ll remodel the house to make it our own again. We love the location. It’s worth the effort. Wind damages? We’ve addressed those. Flooding is a different beast entirely, but lifting is our path forward.” His reflections capture the essence of homeowners who are not just fighting nature—they are actively redefining their relationship with it.
