Most people dream of having a home or establishment near beach areas. The cool sea breeze and sunny skies, matched with the white sand tickling our feet as we ponder the magnificent beauty of nature, is why people are attracted to coastal areas.
It might sound exciting and fulfilling to have an establishment near coastal areas, but it is not the same as the traditional commercial building construction in progressing cities. There is a list of circumstances and methods that you must consider before proceeding with the project.
Picking the Appropriate Materials
When building an establishment within coastal areas, you must first consider the weather. Coastal areas are prone to strong winds, floods, and other coastal conditions. Because of this, the materials you purchase and utilize should withstand these circumstances. While some lower-quality materials may be cheaper, you’ll find they aren’t quite hardy enough to withstand life on the coast. Some specific materials in which you want to invest include:
- Roofing material
- Paint
- Ceiling Fans
- Windows and Doors
- Coastal Zone Access Panels
- Decking materials
You should prioritize these materials when starting the construction process since these materials will always encounter coastal conditions. Purchasing inexpensive materials may save you money in the first few years, but you’ll likely need to replace them within the next three years. Investing in suitable materials that will last a long time is much better.
Check the Elevation
Properties near coastal areas are prone to water risks and different foundational conditions. Before proceeding with the project, pay close attention to what you’re authorized to make on any property you plan to buy. Your property might require a first-floor elevation level of more than 12 feet to reduce the likelihood of floods and other life-threatening water hazards. Because of this, you will most likely expect additional costs for your project.
Check Flood Zones
Flooding is inevitable on coastal properties. You are only less likely to experience flooding depending on how close your establishment or home is to the water. Coastal flooding can cause more damage than regular inland flooding, and this is because of the crashing waves, storm surges, and erosion. When purchasing a property, you’ll want to scope out the area for flooding and how it once affected the foundation. When constructing, you will also require strong materials that can tolerate flooding instances.
Prepare for Expected Erosions
Aside from flooding, the impact of strong waves, high tides, and flooding can go beyond your establishment and the purchased materials needed for your upcoming project. Because coastal floods are often more strenuous, your foundational area will likely experience erosion and will affect your structure’s lifetime in the long run. Because of this, your establishment should have a construction plan to tolerate this occurrence so that it won’t sink in the next couple of years.
Process Local Approvals
Before proceeding with the construction project, you must apply for the local coastal jurisdiction. This is what you need to do:
- Determine which municipality issues permits.
- Research the current zoning designation of the area.
- Understand the zoning assignment and its applicability to your construction project.
- Examine and internalize the building codes appropriate to your project.
These codes will guide how you construct your establishment to meet the safety requirements and ensure a successful process.
Hire Experienced Professionals for the Job
Construction in coastal areas is more complex than ordinary projects in urban areas. They will deal with the weather and area conditions, elevation, and other factors that can compromise the structure. Therefore, you must ensure that the people you hire are well experienced when hiring engineers, architects, attorneys, and contractors.
Furthermore, the people you hire should also be aware of all jurisdictions before proceeding with the projects to avoid unwanted accidents or structural failure. Typically, the professionals you hire will be critical in going through the intricate permitting phase of the project.
Construction projects in coastal areas are not as simple as hammering a nail on a wood block. Environmental conditions are one of the most significant factors that will constantly affect your establishment. It is vital to go over these essential aspects to help you minimize the instances of construction failure and can help you save money in the long run.