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LaHouse is a display of high-performance building practices to create more sustainable, resilient and healthy homes in the gulf region. The research-based facility is located on LSU's Baton Rouge campus and displays home-building techniques and solutions for Louisiana's unique climate. LaHouse is open weekdays from 10 am to 4:30 p.m. for self-guided tours or can be toured completely virtually.
Experience the Lahouse via virtual tour
A stem wall foundation protects the house from flooding by lifting the house’s base. Stem walls allow for easy access to plumbing and wiring systems compared to slab foundations.
If your lot has a slope, a stem wall foundation requires less concrete than a slab foundation.
Hurricane connectors create a continuous load path. A continuous load path connects every piece of your home’s structure together like a chain. This is critical during a hurricane because it helps hold your home together when winds try to pull it apart.
Flood vents are an example of “wet floodproofing” that allows floodwater to flow through an enclosure to prevent pressure buildup that can severely damage the walls and foundation of a home. In the event of a flood, these vents will proactively allow water into the enclosures beneath the house to prevent severe damage.
Borate is used in construction to permanently protect the lumber from termites, decay, fungi, and wood destroying insects.
Because of its durability, closed cell foam spray is the best insulator for subfloors. While open cell insulation is popular in other types of homes, the subfloor is exposed to humidity, pests, rodents, and ground moisture, which can cause floors to cup and buckle if open cell foam is used.
Closed cell foam insulation improves your home’s resilience as it acts as a vapor barrier that keeps moisture out of the home.
