Things to Know About Living on the Beach
We understand why 123.3 million Americans live in cities by the sea. The gentle crash of the ocean waves lure many to buy a house near the ocean. In Miami, we are proud to call this city home and we feel lucky to have beautiful beaches and sunshine year-round. However, living by the sea is not as simple as it seems. As part of our service to you, we want you to know some of the lesser known facts about living on the beach.
Hurricanes Hurt You the Most
When you live on the beach, your home is likely to get hit by tropical storms and hurricanes. Not only will you have to deal with the high winds and rain, but you also have to be careful with the storm surge. If a hurricane hits, the chances of your home getting flooded is significantly high.
Being prepared for hurricanes and other storms coming your way is essential if you live on the beach. Installing impact windows and doors, having basic supplies handy such as batteries and flashlights are just some of the ways you can get prepared. If you do not have home insurance, we recommend you get one as soon as possible to help you cover potential damages from storms.
You May Not Have Bought the Entire Beach
In the State of Florida, riparian rights are incredibly complex. Riparian rights concern who those have rights to own and access land by the water. When you purchase property, you are purchasing the property up to the high-water mark. Below that line, that land is considered public, as long as the waters are navigable.
Constructing a wharf or a pier for your boat is an even greater tangle. The exact line of what is public and what is private is hard to navigate. If the city or local government has paid to restore the beach, then you may not own it, according to a recent Supreme Court case.
You Will Need Different Building Materials
People move to South Florida from all over the country, if not the world. For the most part, building materials are fairly standard, give or take a few changes to account for local differences. When you live near the beach, your home will require an entirely different set of materials.
Your home will need materials that will withstand sand, salt, and wind. Exterior features may require copper, just as you might need to have some stucco masonry that will last in the salty winds. Your roof will need even more attention, so make sure you have a good one.
Natural Landscaping is the Way to Go
Those who live on the beach tend to appreciate nature. This can extend to your landscaping. Dunes and certain grasses not only beautify your home, but they can protect your property from waves and wind. Succulents will firm the sand and will provide a little bit of greenery for your wonderful sunrise view. You will need to have plants that can withstand the sun, wind, and can tolerate salt.
If you have any questions about living on the beach, we can assist you. If you live by the beach, the experts at ASP Windows can help get your home hurricane-ready with impact windows and doors. Call us today at 1-888-782-8342.
