Sunday, September 6, 2009

Notes on Building a Home on the Coast

For many people, the ideal place to live is in a home within a short drive to the beach. Coastal living provides for panoramic views of sea and land, fabulous sunrises and sunsets, and usually, a laid back lifestyle. A home on or near the beach might be a primary residence, or weekend getaway, or even a seasonal residence.

Everyone who considers building a new home in a coastal community expects that this major investment will last a lifetime, and that it will stand up to the elements and the aging process for generations to come. Coastal living presents certain challenges not present in inland communities. If you are considering building a new home, be sure to hire a builder experienced and qualified in the intricacies of coastal construction. Here are a few points to consider.

* A qualified builder, experienced in coastal conditions, selects construction materials that resist damage caused by water, flooding, high winds, corrosion, humidity and decay. He will study the site to determine its susceptibility to these elements and design a sturdy home that will withstand storms, hurricanes, floods and insect damage.

* Your builder will choose concrete mixtures that are specially blended to be able to withstand water damage.

* Wherever necessary pressure treated lumber is used in coastal home construction, as well as naturally strong woods such as cedar and redwood which are considered to be highly durable and flood resistant. Chemically treated lumber also helps prevent termite damage.

* Your builder will consider wind resistance as a factor when installing shingles, vinyl siding, glazing and framing.

* Homes built in coastal zones must be able to resist corrosion and moisture damage. It is important that your new home's hardware be resistant to this type of damage and your builder can recommend stainless steel and epoxy coated metals.

* Protective wood finishes are important for moisture resistance. Furthermore your builder will use construction techniques that assure that the wood elements do not come in contact with standing water.

* Interior flooring materials must be strong and moisture proof and your builder can guide you in your choices. Most frequently tile, marble and other stone products are the materials of choice and will resist moisture absorption and warping from excess humidity.

Enjoy your coastal home!

If you want a great Myrtle Beach Home Builders come and visit us at ameribuilt-homes.com

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