Here’s What You Need to Know
Living in a Florida waterfront home is a dream that many people aspire to, and building a custom home on the water can be the perfect way to bring that dream to life. However, building a waterfront home comes with its own set of considerations that you should be aware of before you begin the process. As a custom home building company, LaBram Homes has plenty of experience building homes on the water, and we’ve compiled some tips to help you make the most of your waterfront home-building experience.
Tip #1: Know the laws and regulations.
When it comes to building on the water, there are many laws and regulations that you need to be aware of. Depending on where you’re building, you may need to obtain permits or follow certain building codes to ensure that your home is safe and up to code. There are many different flood zones which each have their own set of building criteria. Finding out which flood zone you are in is imperative prior to beginning the design of your home. There are both FEMA guidelines as well as local guidelines to adhere to when designing the plan for your home. Additionally, there may be restrictions on how close to the water you can build or what you can do on the water. Before you begin the building process, it’s essential to do your research and make sure that you’re following all the necessary rules and regulations.
In addition, the lot you choose will dictate the type of construction that is possible, which has a strong influence on the overall building costs. Whether you have a property or not, LaBram Homes can help guide you through what’s possible depending on your vision and location.
Tip #2: Choose the right materials.
Building a home on the water can be challenging because of the different (and sometimes severe) Florida weather conditions that your home will be exposed to. Wind, saltwater, and humidity can all take a toll on your home, so it’s important to choose the right materials for the job. Materials like concrete, steel, and composite products such as decking and shutters can be good options because they’re durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Tip #3: Maximize your waterfront view potential.
One of the best things about building a waterfront home is the view. To make the most of your view, consider including outdoor spaces in your home design and going up to three stories. A third story maximizes your view potential. Adding large windows or sliding glass doors that offer unobstructed views of the water ads space, functionality, and options for enjoyment. You may also want to consider building a deck or outdoor living area that allows you to enjoy the view from different angles. If you’re unsure of how to design your home to maximize your view, LaBram Homes can help you create a design that works for your needs.
Tip #4: Choose the right landscaping.
Landscaping is an essential part of any home, but it’s especially important when building on the water. The right landscaping can help protect your home from erosion and flooding while also enhancing the natural beauty of your surroundings. Some good landscaping options for waterfront homes include salt-tolerant plants like sea oats, native grasses, and trees with deep roots that can help stabilize the soil.
Tip #5: Consider hurricane protection.
Hurricanes are a fact of life in Florida, and if you’re building a waterfront home, you need to be prepared for them. Some flood zones require flood vents, impact-resistant windows and doors, and other forms of hurricane protection to help protect your home from damage. All homes that LaBram builds use impact rated products. A good custom home builder can also help you design your home to be more hurricane-resistant, such as using reinforced concrete and other strong building materials.
Building a waterfront home can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s important to be aware of the unique considerations that come with building on the water. By following these tips and working with a professional custom home builder like LaBram Homes who has experience building on the water, you can create a beautiful and functional home that meets all your needs and takes advantage of everything that waterfront living has to offer.
