There’s a lot to love about living on the Carolina coast: the ocean breeze, the salt air, and those postcard-worthy sunsets. But building a home here comes with unique challenges that require careful planning, durable materials, and, most importantly, a deep understanding of how to withstand everything the coast can throw your way.
At Richard Wallace Builder, we’ve perfected the craft of building homes that not only celebrate the beauty of the coast, but stand strong against its forces.
1. It Starts with the Right Foundation
In coastal areas, elevated foundations are key. Whether it’s a piling system or raised concrete slab, elevating your home helps protect it from flooding and storm surge. We work closely with engineers and surveyors to determine optimal elevation levels for every lot, especially in FEMA-designated flood zones.
2. Fortified for Hurricanes
Living on Pleasure Island, and in nearby communities means building with storms in mind. We build to FORTIFIED Home™ standards, which include:
- Impact-resistant windows and doors that won’t shatter under windborne debris.
- Continuous load paths that connect the roof to the foundation, ensuring structural integrity in high winds.
- Reinforced roof systems with enhanced nailing patterns, secondary water barriers, and durable shingles or metal roofs.
These aren’t just checkboxes – they’re peace-of-mind features that protect families and reduce long-term insurance costs.
3. Smart Siding & Exterior Materials
Salt air and humidity are relentless, so we use exterior materials that are specifically designed for coastal durability:
- Fiber cement siding and trim resists warping, swelling, and pests.
- PVC trim where appropriate and stainless steel fasteners prevent rust and rot.
- Proper flashing and moisture barriers behind every cladding system keep your home dry and mold-free.
4. Thoughtful Ventilation
Humidity isn’t just outside – it tries to creep into your home too. That’s why proper attic ventilation, sealed crawl spaces, and high-performance HVAC systems are vital. We design homes with airflow and energy efficiency in mind, which helps prevent mildew, warping, and that “coastal damp” feeling no one wants.
5. Coastal Landscaping That Works with the Weather
While not part of the structure, your landscape matters. We guide clients toward native plants and permeable hardscaping that manage runoff and thrive in sandy soil. It’s all part of a smart, resilient build that considers the whole environment – not just the walls and roof.
6. The Wallace Way: Built for Coastal Confidence
Building a home on the coast is different – and we’ve built our process around that difference. Our proprietary Wallace Way means:
- Transparent pricing – continuous cost updates throughout the build.
- Detailed weekly updates – so you stay informed, even if you’re building from another state.
- FORTIFIED Home™ craftsmanship – because quality is never optional.
We build for longevity. We build for storms. But above all, we build for the people who will live in these homes – and we don’t take that responsibility lightly.
Ready to Build with Coastal Confidence?
If you’re planning to build on Pleasure Island or anywhere along the Carolina coast, let’s talk. From the foundation to the finishes, we’re here to help you build smart – and build for the long haul.
About Richard Wallace Builder: Richard Wallace Builder is a trusted custom home builder serving North Carolina’s southern coast for 20 years. Known for its commitment to craftsmanship, accountability, and personalized client experience, RWB offers homeowners peace of mind through its proprietary process, The Wallace Way. With clear communication, transparent pricing, meticulous project management, and exceptional coastal expertise, Richard Wallace Builder creates homes that reflect the timeless character and lifestyle unique to Coastal Carolina. Learn more about Richard Wallace Builder at richardwallacebuilder.com.