Imagine waking up to a view of the ocean or bay. Every day you’d have a new scene.
On some days the sky is blue with a scattering of clouds. Soft waves line the beach. You sip your coffee or tea and enjoy the beautiful views.
Other days or seasons you find yourself closing the shades or shutters inside just to keep things cooler till the sun moves around in the afternoon. So much for living near the water!
Sometimes coastal living is wonderful. Sometimes, it can pose challenges that you never thought of as you build or remodel your home. But you can be better prepared for the elements if you consider options that will enhance your coastal lifestyle.
Protect your home’s furnishings with interior or exterior controls
One of the challenges my coastal clients face is how to avoid sun damage to the inside of their home. Large sliding doors or a wall of windows with transoms are beautiful. But the reality is this – bright light can cause damage to floors and furnishings.
To avoid sun damage to your coastal home and to be energy efficient, there are a few options to consider in light control for new construction or for existing homes.
Window treatments – self-adjusting or automated
- Solar Screens to control glare and heat without disturbing the view
- Roman Shades with plain or patterned fade resistant fabrics
- Drapes made with fade resistant fabrics
- Shutters – faux wood for non-warping capability
Outdoor Shades
- Specially designed for outdoor area or windows and for entertaining areas such as pergolas, verandas, and balconies”
- Wide width screening up to 35’ for outdoor areas
Awnings – self-adjusting or automated
- Stationary – built and installed to tolerate high winds
- Retractable – open or close (during high wind weather)
- Patio, door or window – automatic, manual and colorfast and mildew resistant http://www.sunesta.com/products/window–door/the-sundrop.aspx
Lesson: Plan early to avoid future problems
Even if your home is built to withstand hurricanes and surges on the outside, the inside of your home is just as important to protect.
Any questions?
Send in your questions and look for our next blog on varying winds and what you can do to manage its effects on your home.
