What you need to consider when building next to the sea

Image source: tripadvisor.com

Coastal and seaside properties are some of the most desirable real estate properties.  However, their construction and maintenance can be difficult for a lot of reasons.  Here are some considerations when building next to the sea.

Coastal properties are always the first to suffer during a major typhoon.  Gale winds can easily shatter glass and swells can enter the property, ruining the interior altogether if the property isn’t equipped with proper barriers.  Even during construction, storms can delay projects further as damages have to be assessed in their wake.

Salt is also one of the most corrosive elements on the planet.  Not only does it affect iron materials, it also does a serious number on construction materials like concrete, brocks, mortar, and plaster.  Sea water flooding can destroy a building’s foundation and cause it to collapse.  It can also corrode cavity walls and reinforcing bars inside buildings.

Image source: http://meconstructionnews.com

Wood is also a popular building material for beach side properties, but it’s not free from salt water damage as well.  Salt can cause delignification, a process whereby salt water seeps into the wood and forms salt crystals on the surface, damaging the wood overtime.

Salt in the air can also damage electronics.  Rapidly corroding metal parts can become unsafe as they can introduce risks of electric shock thus necessitating constant monitoring and replacement.


Hi, my name is John Eilermann. I’m an architecture student based in St. Louis, Missouri. Despite the strict requirements to obtain my degree in architecture, I’m having the time of my life learning about the beauty of the field I chose. To read more about architecture, check out this blog.