Lake Home 101: Top Mistakes to Avoid When Building One

lake home

 

Have you ever considered building a custom lake home? If not, here’s why you should!

Lake homes can provide the perfect getaway for those who love spending time outdoors and enjoying the natural scenery. To ensure that the process goes as easily as possible and that you end up with the home you had in mind, there are a few points to remember when building one. The following are the top errors to avoid while constructing a lake house:

1. Not Considering the Site’s Surroundings and How the Home Will Impact Them

Building a custom home is not all about finding an allotted area and hiring the right workers, and you’re done. The process involves several important steps, including site selection. Considering the surroundings and how the home will impact them is crucial. 

For example, if you’re building on a bluff overlooking a lake, you’ll need to factor in the possibility of erosion. Or, if you’re building near a wetland, you’ll need to make sure that the home doesn’t disturb the area’s delicate balance. 

2. Failing to Properly Research and Plan 

Lake living can be a wonderful experience, but it’s important to do your homework first to make sure your new home will be able to survive in the environment. One thing to consider is how you will power your home. If you live off the grid, you’ll need to install a solar or wind power system. Alternatively, if you’re connected to the grid, you’ll need to ensure you have a reliable source of electricity.

How you propose to heat and cool your house is also crucial. If you’re living in a cold climate, you’ll need to install a heating system, and if you’re living in a hot climate, you’ll need to install a cooling system. Additionally, you’ll need to ensure your home is well-insulated to keep the heat or cool air in. 

3. Ignoring Building Codes 

Building codes are put in place for a reason: to ensure the safety of both the home’s inhabitants and the community. Ignoring these codes can result in faulty wiring in a structurally unsound home. Make sure you are familiar with the codes in your area and work with a qualified contractor who is as well.

Hence if you’re building a lake house, you need to ask your contractor about the specific building codes that apply to structures on or near water. There may be special requirements for the foundation, roof, windows, and doors. Failing to meet these requirements could result in an unsafe structure that the local authorities may not approve.

4. Choosing the Wrong Contractor

Hiring the wrong contractor can be costly when building a custom lake home. Not only can it result in shoddy craft, but it can also lead to disputes between you and the contractor. To avoid this, it’s important to do your research and ask for referrals from friends and family. 

Once you’ve narrowed your choices, ask for references and contact them to learn more about the contractor’s work. It’s also important to get a written estimate from the contractor before signing any contracts. This will help ensure that you’re aware of all the costs involved in the project. 

Final Thoughts

Building a lake home can be a very rewarding experience, but avoiding making the mistakes discussed in this article is important. Following the tips we’ve shared above can make building a lake home smoother and less stressful.

Sierra Gate Homes is a reliable construction builder that helps homeowners build their custom lake homes in Ottawa. Get a free quote from us today!

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