Durable Coastal Decks
Decks and porches on beach homes take the brunt of any storm. Add to that the homeowners' desire for low-maintenance finishes that stand the test of time even in a salt environment, and it's clear that builders have to be especially fussy about their deck materials choices and installation methods. Charles Wardell asked three East Coast builders who work on waterfront homes what materials and techniques they recommend for exterior decks. All agreed durability is the goal, but they each take a slightly different path to get there. Read more
Native Landscaping for Coastal Homes
Drawn to the coast for its natural beauty and wildlife, yet increasingly confronted by red tides, fish kills, and contaminated beaches, many coastal residents are deeply concerned about the environment. While they cannot single-handedly save the coast, a growing number are seeking out builders and landscapers who can help them make a difference in their own front yards, by landscaping with environmentally friendly native plants. Read more
Products
Barrier Housewrap ~ Strong Hold ~ High-Performance Hips ~ Leakproof Liner ~Denailing Gun ~ The Next Cordless Revolution ~ Cedar Look-Alike ~ Modern Metal ~ PVC Trim Kits ~ New Cordless Nailer Read more
Robust Walls
Contributing R-3 to R-7.5 per inch, sheet foam is a handy way to boost a wall's total R-value without adding too much thickness. Rigid foam sheathing can also function well as a drainage plane to help keep wind-blown water out of walls, and it can act as both an air barrier and as a vapor barrier too. These properties make it a good choice in most coastal climates — but only if you get the details right. Ted Cushman explains how to design and detail a foam-sheathed wall system with all functions in mind, taking into account the site's climate and weather exposure. Read more
