Custom home building is a competitive industry. This is especially true in highly-populated areas and favored vacation sites, like the Jersey Shore. While there are many things that are different about home builders in coastal areas, there is one thing that they all do. Homes in these areas are subjected to much more abuse from nature. Hurricanes can cause significant damage for miles along coastlines. In addition, the salt in the air can inflict considerably more wear and tear to building materials. Inexperienced builders that do not take this into consideration will see much damage to their homes in much less time. To build a quality home at the beach, mother nature needs to be a considerable factor in the design. Thankfully, there are quality, experienced home builders in Ocean County. They know how to build homes that are both strong and beautiful.
The Risks of Hurricanes are Great
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), “hurricanes, known generically as tropical cyclones, are low-pressure systems with organized thunderstorm activity that form over tropical or subtropical waters. They gain their energy from warm ocean waters.” Winds can reach gusts of up to 200mph. A slightly windy day may have winds up to 12mph. This is a drastic difference. This means the buildings that are subjected to these wind speeds need special planning. Common building materials are not meant to withstand such severe winds. Thankfully, companies like Andersen Windows makes incredible products for home builders in Ocean County.
Aside from the wind, hurricanes mean a large likelihood of flooding. Most times, there is not a whole lot someone can do to protect their home from flooding. However, building in a coastal area means you should plan in advance to protect your home and valuables as much as possible. One major structural design that is not only popular, but sometimes required in a flood zone is elevating the home off the ground. Building a home on stilts is an intricate design process. Another alternative to raising the home is to raise the soil level. This option does require much more planning and permits and may not be available in all areas.
Other Safety Designs Home Builders in Ocean County Use
There is a wealth of other design ideas and products that help to protect homes in sever storm areas from damage. Storm panels and hurricane shutters are examples of things that can protect windows from flying debris. There is a plethora of shutter designs and types available that suit every type of exterior. Another area where some additions may be necessary is on the roof. Home builders in Ocean County often use hurricane straps and clips on roofs to prevent them from lifting up in high winds. Lastly, landscaping is important. Even something as simple as a landscaping wall can help break strong winds. Planning and planting trees and shrubs in certain areas of the property can also help protect a home. Ensuring that the slope is equal to 1-inch per foot prevents water from pooling on the property. Certain plants also help prevent against erosion and defend the home.
The Air is Different at The Shore
One item that custom home builders in Ocean County need to take into account is the salt air. This can hasten wear and tear, rusting, and breakdown of certain building materials. Builders scarecly use products made of wood. When they are used, they are always enforced with protective layers. Wood, for one, breaks down easily under wet conditions as well as the likelihood of growing mold and mildew. Metal rusts quickly in the salt air compromising the stability of the product. This makes other products, like concrete and aluminum, much safer options. One product that is increasing in popularity are insulated concrete forms. These building blocks not only resist storm damage better than other materials, but they also increase energy efficiency. Metal roofing is another design trend that helps keeps home safe, efficient, and they look great.
After the Home Builders in Ocean County Leave
It is one thing to properly plan and design a home at the shore. Constructing a home with the right materials and additions helps give the home a strong foundation against storm damage. The next layer of security lies in the hands of the homeowner. One easy and effective task that helps reduce the effects of salt air and water on a home is a thorough washing annually. Aside from this, repainting or touching up the exterior layers of the home ensure that protective layer stays adequate. Easily the simplest thing every homeowner can do to protect their homes is to not store items outside unprotected. Strong winds can do unbelievable damage to storage bins and buildings so it is always best to store things like bikes and beach chairs in the garage.