#4 – Elevation and Drainage: Key Considerations for Coastal Construction

Wind and Hurricane Considerations

With hurricane season being a real concern for those living on the North Carolina coast, homes must be built to withstand high winds. The building codes in coastal areas are stringent to ensure homes can handle hurricane-force winds. If the foundation isn’t done correctly, shifting caused by wind forces could result in major structural damage. As we always say, “If you get your foundation wrong, it doesn’t matter what you got right.”

For homes directly on the water, the requirements extend beyond the foundation. Things like impact-resistant windows, stronger bracing for pilings, and reinforced roofing materials are necessary to keep your home secure during a storm.

Soil: Testing for Stability

No matter where you’re building, the soil plays a significant role in determining what type of foundation is necessary. In North Carolina, and particularly along the coast, the soil conditions vary significantly. The percolation test (or “perc test”) is a key step when determining whether your land can support a septic system.

Different soil types require different approaches to foundation design, and having an experienced contractor and homebuilder who understands these variables is crucial. Sun Coast works with top engineers who know exactly what is required to ensure your home is built on a stable base. We believe in striving to get it right the first time because fixing foundation problems later is costly, both in terms of money and time.

Septic Systems: Critical for Coastal Communities

If you’re building in a more rural or coastal area without access to municipal sewer systems, you’ll need to consider a septic system. Not all soils are suitable for these systems, so it’s important to confirm that your land will support one before purchasing property. The number of bedrooms in your home also affects the type and size of the septic system needed, so don’t assume you can build a large home without considering how your septic system will function.

Crawlspaces and Slabs: What’s Best for Coastal Construction?

When it comes to crawlspaces and slabs, not all are created equal. In coastal areas with high moisture levels, crawlspaces can present significant challenges. Moisture buildup in poorly ventilated crawlspaces can lead to mold, rotting wood, and wet ductwork—issues that can plague homeowners for years.

At Sun Coast, we’re extremely selective about when we use crawlspaces, preferring to avoid them to reduce the risk of moisture-related problems. For those opting for a slab foundation, we ensure that concrete is poured with steel reinforcement and fiber mesh for added strength. This helps avoid the issues associated with poorly constructed slabs, which can settle over time and lead to costly foundation repairs.

Why We Do Things Right: The Sun Coast Difference

Eugene, with over 35 years of experience in homebuilding and construction, has been involved in more than 1,000 homes—and he’s only had one small issue with a foundation in all that time. His meticulous attention to detail ensures that every foundation is built to last, from the soil testing to the engineered plans to the final pour.

At Sun Coast, we don’t cut corners, especially when it comes to your home’s foundation. A well-built foundation is the cornerstone of a safe and durable home, and we’re here to make sure yours stands strong for years to come.

If you have any questions about foundations, engineering, or septic systems in your homebuilding journey, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Sun Coast. We’re here to help you build the home of your dreams, on a solid foundation.

Up Next

In conclusion, the foundation of your home is just the beginning of a strong and secure structure. At Sun Coast, we understand the importance of getting it right from the ground up, ensuring that your home is built to last and withstand the unique challenges of coastal North Carolina. As we continue our series on what makes us different, next, we’ll dive into the critical aspects of residential and commercial framing. In the upcoming article, we’ll explore how we approach framing with precision and care, laying the framework for a home or building that’s not only solid but also designed for long-term durability and functionality. Stay tuned!