Florida homes are indeed different from northern homes, often harboring unique characteristics that can catch newcomers by surprise. While there might be some occasional overlap, these distinct features are prevalent due to the state's climate, lifestyle, and regional practices.

Florida Homes are Different

Due to Climate, Lifestyle and Regional Practices

 1.  Roofs:  Florida homes typically have pitched or flat tile roofs to reflect heat and resist hurricane winds, whereas northern homes often have steep roofs to manage heavy snowfall.

 2. Air Conditioning: Almost every home in Florida has central air conditioning due to the hot and humid climate, while in the north, heating systems are more emphasized and AC might not be as common.

 3. Building Materials: Florida homes often use stucco, concrete, and other materials that resist humidity and termites, whereas northern homes may use more wood and brick.

 4.  Insulation: Northern homes are heavily insulated to retain heat, while Florida homes focus more on ventilation and cooling.

 5. Windows: In Florida, windows are often tinted or treated for sun protection and hurricane resistance using hurricane shutters or impact resistant windows. In the North, double or triple-pane windows are common for insulation against cold.  In Florida, people don’t open windows very often - they open sliders.

 6.  Foundation: Homes in Florida often lack basements due to the high water table, whereas basements are common in northern homes.

 7.  Outdoor Living Spaces: Florida homes typically have screened lanais or pool areas to enjoy the year-round warm weather, unlike many northern homes.  In the North, the snow would collapse screened lanais.

 8.  Pest Control: Due to the tropical climate, Florida homes often require more robust pest control measures against insects like termites and palmetto bugs.

 9.  Landscaping: Tropical landscaping with palm trees and citrus plants are common in Florida, whereas northern homes may feature deciduous trees and cold-weather plants.  Annuals from up north act more like perennials in Florida.

 10.  Ceiling Fans:  Almost every room in a Florida home is likely to have a ceiling fan for air circulation, a less common feature in northern homes.

 11.  Drainage Systems: Florida homes often have elaborate drainage systems to deal with heavy rainfalls and prevent flooding, which might be less extensive in the north.  Another reason Florida doesn’t have basements.  They would flood!

 12.  Attic Space: Attics in Florida are not usable for storage due to the intense heat, whereas in the north, attics are commonly used for additional storage.