My clients purchased a beautiful ocean front property in Scituate. The builder left it up to the new owners to select and complete the exterior weather proofing for the property. This information will help you through the process.
When you purchase a beach house you must install weather protection in order to protect your investment. The windows and sliders facing the water and force of the wind must be covered for the storm season. The windows should be hurricane strength and covered on the exterior for the proper protection you need.
There are so many excellent options to choose from today. If you are on a budget and the DIY type, you can opt for plywood as a low tech, no frills option. Make sure you verify the best width for the wood and get the correct screws to install.
There are a variety of storm shutters to choose from. Made from aluminum or steel they cover beyond the frame of the window or slider. They can roll down from the top or side, they can fold or be hinged. Manual or electronic options are available. If you travel a lot, you may prefer electric storm shutters accessible from an app on your phone letting you operate them from wherever you are!
Remember of course these options will put the house into complete darkness. You may opt instead for clear polycarbonate panels, the same material used in hockey rinks. This type of covering allows light to stream in at all times. You can sit back and watch the storm without the fear of breaking glass.
I strongly suggest hiring a professional to install these. There are so many choices, it’s easy to get the quotes and details you need to make the best decision for your lifestyle and budget. This is truly not a good DYI project. You don’t want to realize they are not installed correctly during your first nor’easter!
I also suggest you get to know your neighbors. Ask around to see what they have installed for protection on their homes. This information will certainly prove to valuable. Let them share the lessons and mistakes they have made over the years, so you don’t repeat them.
Ever wonder why the decking along oceanfront homes have cut out hatches in the floors?? The hatches are typically hinged from below for easy removal. They are specifically cut out and removed during inclement weather, or for the season. This allows for easy water flow through the decking area, lessening any damage that can occur. When the deck is one solid piece it causes the water to slam against it with such force it will cause much more significant damage or demolition.
I hope these helpful tips allow you to properly safeguard your beach house. Now sit back and enjoy the view!!
