Because of their prime location, waterfront homes are often more expensive than properties further inland. But this location also puts the real estate at risk. They’re more exposed to the elements, which can make home maintenance a costly and challenging task.
To take good care of your waterfront home, it is best to understand its special needs and pay adequate attention to them accordingly. This way, you and your loved ones can enjoy it for a long period of time.
What can happen to your waterfront home?
Over time, your waterfront home might be exposed to the following:
- Wind damage
- Flooding
- Summer heat waves
- Lake effect precipitation
- Shoreline erosion
- Wet and dry wood rot
Risks such as these can not only damage the structural integrity of your waterfront home, but affect the overall quality of the property. If part of your future plans is to resell it, the condition of your waterfront home will also affect its resale value.
How to treat your waterfront home right
Fortunately, there are several things you can do to prevent your waterfront home from falling into disrepair.
- Purchase insurance policies
Getting your property insured can help you protect your home and, at the same time, cover the costs in the event of damages. Insurance companies offer a variety of products. Some have taken it a step further by providing insurance bundles that offer protection in various areas, such as excess flood, wind, and watercraft.
- Invest in a dehumidifier and damp-proof your home
Wood rot (dry or wet) and mold thrive in damp conditions. Moisture in your waterfront home can encourage the growth and, in worst case scenarios, damage your home.
To keep the moisture level down, you can install a self-draining dehumidifier or two in key areas. The best way, however, to combat the growth of mold and prevent wood rot is by damp proofing your waterfront home.
Another precaution is to regularly check for leaks throughout the property and apply the necessary repairs.
- Keep the shoreline as natural as possible
When you own a waterfront property in Lake Chelan or any other location, you must also keep the shoreline in good health.
Avoid making any changes to the shoreline save for replanting aquatic plants and making sure the existing ones remain intact. Plants support the local animal population (such as fish and birds), help prevent erosion, and also serve as a natural breakwater. Do take care not to introduce invasive species by researching native plants thoroughly.
- Regularly rinse doors, windows, and outdoor furniture with fresh water
Salt and mineral build-up can occur in regularly exposed features of the house as well as outdoor furniture. Rinsing them once a while with fresh water will help prevent corrosion. Opening windows and doors to loosen them from time to time also helps.
For a long-term solution, invest in aluminum window frames. This material can withstand the elements and their effects, such as rust and corrosion.
Taking good care of your Lake Chelan waterfront property will protect your investment and help you enjoy it for a long time. For more information on how to look after your house, browse our website or get in touch with us at 509.682.7777 or info(at)CBChelan(dotted)com. We would be happy to refer to you to trusted contractors in the Lake Chelan area.