South Florida has miles of waterfront property from direct beach access to intracoastal properties. Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach counties have the most valuable and desirable waterfront homes in the state. Living on the water is a dream come true for many; however, there are many aspects of waterfront living that should be considered while building a custom home in South Florida.
Elevations
South Florida has strict rules in place for new construction homes to comply with localized building elevations. Flood plain managers across our state have set in place requirements for “100-year” and “500-year” worst case scenario flooding from both tides and rising sea levels. Making sure these finish floor slab elevation design requirements are met is essential to building a custom waterfront home.
Building Codes
Strict building codes are a part of building in South Florida. From pilings for waterfront properties to concrete/steel beams and impact windows building in South Florida requires an adherence to these codes for purposes of minimizing the impact of hurricanes on buildings.
Materials
It is essential to keep in mind that materials exposed to the weather conditions in South Florida need to be well suited to withstand and last. Waterfront homes are subject to more exposure of the elements than that of inland homes. The strong sea breeze and salt in the air can corrode materials quickly. The humidity and moisture in the air can do the same and promote growth of undesirables that we don’t like to mention. There are many ways to safeguard a custom home from this. Contact UBACK to discuss how.
Spaces
There couldn’t be an article with all seriousness in it for building a waterfront home. Let’s talk about spaces and the implementation of design to compliment the South Florida waterfront lifestyle.
Summer Kitchens – Outdoor living in South Florida is essential. A pool and grill under a covered patio would be perfect for this
Kitchen to Living Room – With most people desiring an open floor plan the kitchen and living room should be large, inviting and a place where guests and family can gather
Other things to consider when building a waterfront home:
- Using roofing material suited to coastal construction
- Installing exterior labeled lighting fixtures, fans and equipment
- Applying waterproofing material at designated areas
- Accounting for adequate property drainage
UBACK Construction is a custom home builder in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. We can assist in all aspects of custom home building. Contact UBACK Construction to learn more about building a custom home in South Florida.
Jared@ubackconstruction.com or 954-496-0762.
