Residential ConstructionResidential MaintenanceA graphic with a beachfront home being built on the sand. This overlays a yellow background with the words "Coastal Construction".

Now that summer is here in the South and temperatures are peaking, Floridians are heading to the coast! Florida is known for its beautiful beaches and waterfront properties. If you’re thinking about investing in a vacation home at the beach or even building your own beach house, keep reading to learn some coastal construction considerations. 

 

Building Codes

Before getting started with your coastal construction project, get familiar with local building codes for construction along the coast. There are limitations, regulations, best practices, and other things you must know before building on the coast. Do your research thoroughly and well in advance to ensure that your building is up to code, safe to live in, and safe for the surrounding environment. 

 

Flood Zones 

One of the main concerns with coastal construction is whether the building will withstand flooding, especially for beachfront homes. Knowing your flood zone is essential before getting started. There are four main categories of flood zones including low to moderate, high-risk, high-risk, and unknown risk areas. Understanding your flood zone will allow you and your construction team to properly elevate and prepare your structure for potential flooding. 

Inland vs. Coastline

Whether you decide to build your new beach house on the beach for beautiful views or away from the beach for less stress, you should know the differences between living inland versus on the coastline. Inland buildings have less safety requirements than coastal buildings as inland flooding is less likely. Coastal buildings have a higher risk of flooding due to storm surges, intense winds, changing tides, and the unsteady ground. Inland buildings require less elevation and less intense foundations, while coastal buildings need more intense structural planning. 

Elevation

Coastal homes should be adequately elevated to protect against flooding from hurricanes, tropical storms, and intense waves. Coastal buildings should also have deep foundation piles to withstand soil erosion damage. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) may require that your coastal home is elevated to a certain level in high-risk flood areas.

 

Beach-friendly Foundation

After identifying your flood zone and building codes, you need to determine the best foundation type for your coastal construction project. This is based on the exact location of your home and the soil that will be underneath it. Coastal homes tend to need a very deep foundation to withstand potential flooding. 

Roof Weatherproofing 

Ensuring that your roof can resist bad weather is especially essential for coastal construction. Need professional guidance for roof weatherproofing? TSpark Enterprises can install the perfect roof for your beach house. If you already have a coastal home with a problematic roof, TSpark can perform a Leak Diagnosis, roof repair, or even replace your roof altogether. Contact TSpark for a free quote on your roofing project!

Professional help

Let’s face it– new construction projects are stressful, and sometimes you just don’t know where to start. That’s where TSpark can step in. We specialize in remodeling, window & door replacements, siding repairs & replacements, and overall energy-efficient improvements. We will work with you to create a plan that prioritizes your building goals while ensuring your coastal building is safe for you and the environment. Contact us for a free consultation on your construction project or if you’re a current owner of a coastal home that needs repairs or remodeling!

 

Enjoy your Florida summer the right way–at the beach! Whether you’re just starting to plan your coastal construction project or you’re already a coastal homeowner, TSpark is here for you. Our construction professionals can help you plan your project and work along with you to craft your perfect summer home. Your satisfaction is guaranteed. Call us or visit our website today for a free quote on your project! 

 

TSpark Enterprises, headquartered in Tallahassee, Florida, offers a wide range of roofing and construction services in the North Florida and South Georgia area. Visit our website or call (850) 766-1340 to get a free estimate and embark on your construction journey today!