Composite decking is definitely a solid choice, but honestly, don't overlook hardwood options either. I renovated my first beach house a couple years back and went with composite initially—loved the low maintenance, but it did get pretty hot underfoot in direct sun. Ended up switching to sustainably sourced hardwood decking (ipe, specifically) on the next project, and it's held up surprisingly well. Yeah, there's a bit more upkeep—gotta oil it every year or two—but nothing crazy. Plus, it stays cooler and feels nicer barefoot.
Budget-wise, I'd say whatever you think you'll spend, add at least 20% extra for unexpected stuff. Coastal renovations always throw curveballs your way... salt air corrosion, surprise moisture issues, you name it. Better to have some wiggle room than stress halfway through the project.
Good points on decking choices. A few other things to factor into your budget:
- Hurricane-rated windows and doors (pricey but worth it)
- Corrosion-resistant hardware (stainless steel or marine-grade aluminum)
- Moisture barriers and proper ventilation to prevent mold issues
Definitely pad your budget—coastal projects always surprise you...
Couldn't agree more about padding the budget—coastal renovations have a knack for hidden surprises. I'd also suggest budgeting for historical preservation guidelines if your beach house is older. From personal experience, these requirements can add unexpected expenses, especially if you're matching period-specific materials or craftsmanship. Also, factor in landscaping that's salt-tolerant and erosion-resistant...it'll save you headaches later. Renovating by the sea is truly rewarding, but patience (and a flexible wallet) are definitely key.
Good points, but I'd caution against over-investing in historical accuracy if it's not strictly mandated. Sometimes modern, eco-friendly materials can mimic traditional aesthetics closely enough—plus they're often cheaper and hold up better against coastal elements. Worth considering, anyway...
I renovated a family beach cottage a couple years back, and I went down the historical accuracy rabbit hole at first. It got pricey fast, especially sourcing authentic materials. Eventually, I shifted gears and went with modern composite siding and decking that looked surprisingly close to the original cedar. Honestly, most visitors couldn't even tell the difference, and maintenance has been a breeze compared to the old wood siding we had before. That said, I did splurge a bit on authentic-looking hardware and fixtures—it gave the place just enough character without blowing the budget. So yeah, I'd agree that balancing authenticity with practicality and cost is key.
