how much should I budget to renovate a beach house?

I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve actually had better luck with marine grade hardware - at least for hinges and fasteners. The upfront cost stings, but I’ve noticed less corrosion over time compared to standard stuff. Maybe it’s just the brand or batch? For wood, though, nothing seems to stop the rot entirely. I’ve started using epoxy consolidants on sills and it’s helped slow things down a bit. Still, you’re right, it’s a never-ending cycle with the salt air.

Tell me about it... I swear salt air is nature's way of keeping us humble. I tried to cheap out on hardware once - big mistake. Ended up replacing half the hinges within a year. Marine grade’s pricey, but at least you’re not fighting rust every weekend. As for wood, I’ve just accepted it’s a losing battle. Epoxy helps, but sometimes I think the termites and rot are in cahoots with the ocean breeze.

You’re not wrong about the salt air - it’s relentless. Honestly, I always tell clients to plan for higher costs on finishes and hardware. Marine-grade everything isn’t just a suggestion, it’s survival. And don’t even get me started on “weather-resistant” paints... half of them are just wishful thinking.

Totally agree about the salt air - it's brutal on everything, even stuff that's supposedly "built for it." When I help folks budget, I always break it down like this: first, prioritize windows and doors with proper seals (those leaks add up fast). Next, hardware - go marine-grade or expect to replace it every couple years. For paint, I've had better luck with elastomeric coatings than most "weather-resistant" brands... they seem to flex with the humidity swings. And don't forget about ventilation - good airflow helps slow down that constant dampness. It all adds up, but cutting corners just means more repairs down the line.

Marine-grade hardware definitely lasts longer, but I’ve actually found some powder-coated options that hold up surprisingly well (and cost less). For paint, I lean toward high-quality exterior acrylics - easier touch-ups if you get chips or nicks from moving furniture. On ventilation, I’d add: ceiling fans make a huge difference, especially in bedrooms where windows might stay closed more often. Just my two cents from a few coastal projects… sometimes the “standard” solutions aren’t always the only way to go.