Your Guide to Weatherproofing Your Coastal Home

Ah, to live by the seaside – it’s the quintessential British dream and it’s no surprise why.

Margate, Scarborough and Eastbourne are the gold standard of seaside beauty, being voted as just three of the best coastal towns in England. Sun, sea and sand are undeniably beautiful but living beside the water comes with its own unique set of challenges.  

From salt-laden air to relentless winds, seaside environments can take a toll on your home. Weatherproofing is essential to maintain your property’s integrity and value. Here’s your comprehensive guide to protecting your coastal home. 

Understanding the Challenges of Coastal Living 

• Coastal homes face an entirely different set of environmental conditions compared to inland properties. These include:  
• Saltwater corrosion: Salt from the sea air accelerates the corrosion of metals, weakening structural components like railings, roofing and window frames. This is particularly a concern for properties with exposed metal surfaces.  
• High humidity: Constant exposure to moist air increases the risk of mould, mildew and wood rot. This can compromise both the structural integrity and indoor air quality of your home.  
• Strong winds: Coastal winds can carry debris and sand, damaging exterior finishes and windows.  

Selecting Durable Materials for Coastal Construction  

The materials of your coastal home will make or break its durability. Opting for materials specifically suited to withstand seaside conditions can significantly reduce maintenance and repair needs. 

• Granite and Stone: These natural materials resist erosion and weathering, making them excellent for exterior walls and foundations. 
• Vinyl Cladding: Vinyl is highly resistant to salt and moisture, offering a low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood siding. 
• Metal Roofing: Aluminium or galvanised steel roofs resist corrosion better than standard steel, ensuring longevity in salt-rich air. 
• Non-Corrosive Fixtures: To avoid rust, use stainless steel, aluminium, and powder-coated metals for window frames, railings, and exterior fittings.  

Implementing Effective Waterproofing Solutions 

The seaside is…wet and wet means moisture. Getting control of it is key to protecting your property from the damaging effects of high humidity and saltwater exposure.  

• Weatherproof Coatings: Apply protective coatings to exterior walls and roofs to prevent water penetration and reduce the impact of salty air. 
• Vapour barriers: Instal vapor barriers in the walls and basements to control interior humidity and prevent mould.  
• Proper Drainage Systems: Keep gutters and downpipes clear and functional so rainwater can be directed away from your home’s foundations.  

Incorporating Weather-Resistant Features in New Houses 

For those investing in new build houses, you can make life easier for yourself and save significant money in the long run by designing weather-resistant features.  

Elevated foundations raise the property to protect it from flooding or storm surges, while windbreaking landscaping reduces the impact of strong winds. This involves strategically planting shrubs and installing fences.  

You should also opt for storm-resistant windows with impact-resistant glass and reinforced frames to withstand high winds.