Oceanfront Properties Require Extra Attention
Northeast Florida is a dream destination for many homeowners. From wonderful waves to stunning sunsets, living on the historic First Coast is an unparalleled experience. Who doesn’t love the idea of waking up with your toes in the sand or enjoying a cool ocean breeze on a hot day?
Owning property, especially waterfront property, comes with a unique set of challenges, but that doesn’t mean you should skip the shore when looking for your dream home! There are simple things you can do to protect your waterfront investment. Follow these tips and your home will remain a slice of paradise for years to come.
Understanding the Unique Challenges of Waterfront Properties
Living by the water is fantastic, but it also means facing the elements head-on. The salty air and strong winds can take a toll on your home. Erosion and flooding can also be concerns.
The saltwater is both a blessing and a curse. It enhances the beauty of the surroundings but can also corrode metal and wear down wood. Regular maintenance is crucial to keep everything in top shape. Often, the best response is anticipating issues. A couple coats of protective spray can extend the life of exterior metal fixtures. Making these small investments early on can save headaches down the line.
Essential Maintenance Tips
Regular Inspections
People much smarter than us say, “A stitch in time saves nine.” Regular inspections are a great example of this. Sure, it can be a pain to schedule inspections, but it’s even worse when you’re paying for a problem that could have been avoided. Make it a habit to inspect your property at least twice a year. Focus on the roof, foundation, seawalls, and docks.
Saltwater Damage Prevention
To combat saltwater damage, consider using protective coatings for metal and wood. Regular cleaning to remove salt deposits is also crucial. No matter what material your deck is made of, plan for monthly cleanings. They will keep your property looking new despite being right on the beach.
Pest Control
Waterfront properties can attract pests like mosquitoes. Screens are a popular preventative measure to keep pesky bugs away. Your home (and your ankles) will thank you.
Investing in Protective Measures
Flood Mitigation Strategies
Let’s talk about King Tides.
It’s no secret that St. Augustine is at sea-level. Its location and accessible harbor are part of the reason it is the Oldest City in America. Due to season tide cycles, the fall months can see high tide levels known as King Tides. Heavy rain and strong winds can make this flooding more severe.
Before you get too stressed, remember St. Augustine has been around for over 450 years. There are many buildings downtown that are over 100 years old. Flooding is serious, but with proper preparation it can be handled.
Elevating critical systems like HVAC and electrical units can prevent flood damage. Additionally, consider installing sump pumps and making sure your property has proper drainage.
Seawall and Dock Maintenance
Seawalls and docks look pretty from the water, and they serve an important role. These structures are crucial in preventing erosion. First, they deflect and absorb the energy of waves, reducing the impact on the shoreline. Second, they keep sediment in place and stabilize the land in the event of storm surges. Like we mentioned earlier, timely repairs can significantly extend their lifespan.
Enhancing Property Value
Sustainable Landscaping
Consider sustainable landscaping options like native plants. Seagrass, Sabal palms, and Florida arrowroot are great for the local environment. Plus, they help control erosion. Consider drought-resistant plants that don’t need a lot of maintenance. It’s even easier by the sea because there is so much moisture in the air. This is one area where you can “set it and forget it!”
Aesthetic Improvements
Enhancing your outdoor living spaces can add significant value to your property. Think about installing a cozy fire pit, an outdoor kitchen, or a boathouse. These additions boost property value in the long term. Not to mention, you can enjoy them every day until you start to think about selling your house.
Welcome Home to St. Augustine
Whether you’ve lived in the Ancient City your entire life, or you’ve just started thinking about life in St. Augustine, there is always something more to discover. Find out how much your home is worth or give us a call at (904) 599-5633 to discuss listing your current home with The Newcomer Group.