We bought our beach place thinking it'd just need some cosmetic updates—paint, fixtures, maybe flooring. Ha, rookie mistake. Once we opened up a wall to fix some wiring, it was like peeling an onion...layers of issues we never saw coming. I'd say whatever your initial budget is, add at least 30% for surprises. And yeah, composite decking feels weirdly artificial underfoot, but mixing it with natural wood accents helped us strike a balance between durability and aesthetics. Still hurts the wallet, but sunsets on the deck ease the sting a bit.
Totally get the onion analogy, been there myself. But honestly, I'd bump that surprise budget closer to 50% if you're dealing with an older beach property. Salt air and humidity can do sneaky damage behind walls and under floors. Also, composite decking has come a long way—some newer brands feel pretty natural underfoot. Might be worth checking out samples in person before ruling it out completely...could save you headaches down the road.
Totally agree on upping the surprise budget—older beach homes are notorious for hidden moisture issues. A few things I'd add from experience:
- Consider cork or bamboo flooring options. They're surprisingly durable, eco-friendly, and handle humidity better than you'd expect.
- Check insulation carefully; older beach properties often skimped here, and upgrading can save you big on energy bills.
- Definitely second the composite decking suggestion. Some newer recycled options look great and hold up well in salty air.
Good luck—sounds like a fun (if challenging) project...
Great points on flooring and insulation—I hadn't thought about cork flooring before, but now you've got me curious. I wonder how it holds up with sand tracked in constantly? Bamboo seems like a solid bet though, especially since it's pretty tough and looks great.
One thing I'd add from my own experience: don't underestimate window replacements. Older beach houses often have single-pane windows that leak air like crazy. Upgrading to double-pane or even hurricane-rated windows can make a huge difference in comfort and energy bills. Plus, the peace of mind during storm season is priceless...
I'm still a bit skeptical about composite decking though. I've seen some brands fade or warp over time, even if they're supposed to be weather-resistant. Maybe it's just about picking the right brand or spending a bit more upfront?
Either way, sounds like you've got your work cut out for you—but it'll definitely be worth it once you're relaxing on that deck with a cold drink in hand.
"I'm still a bit skeptical about composite decking though. I've seen some brands fade or warp over time, even if they're supposed to be weather-resistant."
You're right to be cautious about composite decking—I've seen mixed results myself. Honestly, the key is usually in the installation and brand choice. Cheaper composites can warp or fade pretty quickly, especially under constant sun and salt exposure. If you go composite, invest in a reputable brand and make sure it's installed with proper spacing for expansion. Otherwise, real hardwood (like ipe) might be worth the extra maintenance hassle...
