Living near the ocean has many benefits for us humans; physical health, mental health and emotional health. For the beach house structure it is, however, an ongoing project to keep environmental deterioration at bay. Ocean beach corrosion is a factor to contend with when you have a home near the ocean. That is why we schedule annual beach house maintenance at the Sea Anemone.
Airborne salt builds over time eventually damaging these surfaces
Salt-laden mist blows in off the ocean and adheres to surfaces of homes, cars, patio furniture and other outdoor structures. Airborne salt builds over time eventually damaging these surfaces. This process is called ocean beach corrosion. As owners, we want safety first for our family and guests. Secondly, we strive to keep our home attractive and well-kept. Below is a list of many of the maintenance and repair items we have undertaken within the last two years.
Scheduled exterior painting is required
First and foremost, scheduled exterior painting is required in order to protect the wood of a home. The Sea Anemone exterior was painted in 2016. We hired a licensed and bonded company and used quality paint. In the process of doing the work, the painter discovered the home had not been sealed in the past – so they sealed each board to help keep moisture and air from damaging the wood. We know we have to paint at least every 5 years to protect our home.
Salty air also corrodes metal. We have replaced some locks with stainless interior mechanics, but any metal is subject to weather damage over time. In 2016 we replaced damaged wood and metal hinges on our outside stairway and workmen reinforced the pillars to make sure the structure is secure. The same workmen replaced the rusted metal parts from the propane tank that connect to the gas fireplace inside the house. These decisions were made with user safety in mind.
We included LED lighting
Salty air corrodes metal lighting fixtures. In 2017 we replaced most outdoor metal lighting fixtures with quality warrantied plastic brands. We included LED lighting so we can trust that outside lighting comes on appropriately when a guest arrives after dark
Ocean beach corrosion affects our outdoor furniture, too. That is why we paint the wood every two years. Dirt in the salty air gets into cracks and knicks of the painted surface and causes the paint to continue to blister and peel. We replace metal nuts and bolts of our outdoor furniture with stainless steel when necessary. Winter wind and added rain damage is why we store our Adirondack chairs and BBQ inside for the winter.
Winter winds can damage shingles
Wind damage is evident on our shingles. We replaced shingles on our shed in 2017. Shingle work is scheduled for 2018 on our beach house.
Inside maintenance is on-going for our beach house
Additionally, inside maintenance is on-going for our beach house. Interior painting, light fixture replacements, new shower head, toilet replacement, regular cleaning of window sills from mildew and dirt accumulation, inside caulking of the shower, annual cleaning of the gas stove and regular replacement of linens and towels make up some of the things we do.
It is important to us that our home be kept safe and clean for our family and guests. We strive each year to improve and maintain the Sea Anemone. Come visit us and see for yourself.
I trust you will collect wonderful memories when you stay at the Sea Anemone as you visit and explore Yachats. Perfect for small families, a retreat with friends or a romantic getaway.
Our house, where memories begin…