Ten Resources for Planning a New Home Build

Blake Brown • February 9, 2025
Two men are looking at a blueprint in a kitchen.

Building a new home is an exciting journey, but it requires careful planning and coordination with local authorities to ensure everything runs smoothly. From securing permits to addressing zoning and drainage concerns, knowing where to find the right resources can make all the difference. Here are ten essential resources to help guide you through the home-building process.


1. Local Permit Office

Before construction begins, you’ll need to secure building permits to ensure compliance with local regulations.


๐Ÿ“Œ How to Find It:


Visit your city or county website and look for the "Permitting" or "Building Department" section.

Call or visit your local municipal office to ask about required permits.


๐Ÿ’ก Tip: Permit requirements vary by location, so always confirm the process before starting.


2. Zoning and Land Use Office

Zoning laws determine how land can be used (residential, commercial, etc.), affecting home size, placement, and use.


๐Ÿ“Œ How to Find It:


Check with your city or county zoning office for specific restrictions.

Some areas have online zoning maps available for easy reference.


๐Ÿ’ก Tip: If your plans don’t align with zoning regulations, you may need to apply for a variance or rezoning request.


3. County or City Drainage Department

Proper drainage is crucial to prevent flooding and erosion, especially in coastal Texas areas where heavy rains are common.


๐Ÿ“Œ How to Find It:


Contact the local public works department or stormwater management office.

Visit the county engineering office for floodplain maps and drainage permits.


๐Ÿ’ก Tip: Check if your property is in a flood zone, as this can impact insurance costs and construction plans.


4. Property Appraiser’s Office

Understanding property value, tax rates, and land assessments is key to financial planning.


๐Ÿ“Œ How to Find It:


Search for the county tax assessor’s website to view property records and estimated values.

Call or visit the appraiser’s office to ask about property tax implications for new builds.


๐Ÿ’ก Tip: Some counties offer tax exemptions for new construction—always ask!


5. County Commissioner’s Office

If you have concerns about road access, utilities, or neighborhood development, your county commissioner is your go-to representative.


๐Ÿ“Œ How to Find It:


Visit your county government website to locate your commissioner.

Attend public meetings or schedule an appointment to voice concerns.


๐Ÿ’ก Tip: Commissioners influence local policies that affect home building, so stay informed on new developments.


6. Homeowners’ Association (HOA) or Deed Restrictions Office

If your new home is in an HOA-governed area, you’ll need to follow specific building guidelines.


๐Ÿ“Œ How to Find It:


Contact the HOA board or management company for community regulations.

If unsure, check your property deed for deed restrictions.


๐Ÿ’ก Tip: Some HOAs require architectural approval before construction—submit plans early to avoid delays.


7. Utility Companies (Electric, Water, Sewer, Gas)

Ensuring your home has proper access to utilities is a key part of planning.


๐Ÿ“Œ How to Find It:


Contact your local power company for electrical service setup.

Reach out to the water and sewer department for hookup fees and service availability.

If using gas, check with the local provider for connection requirements.


๐Ÿ’ก Tip: Some areas require a septic system inspection if city sewer isn’t available.


8. Fire Department or Emergency Services

Fire codes and emergency access can impact home placement and driveway design.


๐Ÿ“Œ How to Find It:


Call your local fire marshal’s office for fire code requirements.

Visit the city website to find your district’s emergency services contact.


๐Ÿ’ก Tip: If building in a rural area, verify fire hydrant distance and accessibility for emergency vehicles.


9. Local Engineering or Soil Testing Firm

A professional soil test can determine if your land can support your home’s foundation.


๐Ÿ“Œ How to Find It:


Search for licensed soil testing or engineering firms in your county.

Your builder or county zoning office may provide referrals.


๐Ÿ’ก Tip: Expansive clay soils (common in Texas) may require a special foundation design.


10. Home Builders Association (HBA) & Professional Contractors

Working with a reputable home builder ensures a smoother building process.


๐Ÿ“Œ How to Find It:


Search for a local Home Builders Association (HBA) for recommended builders.

Check builder credentials through the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or state licensing board.


๐Ÿ’ก Tip: Always ask for references, insurance proof, and past project portfolios before hiring a builder.


Final Thoughts

Building a new home requires careful coordination with local authorities, utility providers, and professional builders. By using these ten resources, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate permits, zoning, drainage, and everything else needed for a successful home build.


๐Ÿ”จ Ready to start your home-building journey? Contact [South Texas Home Builders] for expert guidance and high-quality craftsmanship built for the Texas Coastal Bend!

NEWS

By Blake Brown August 1, 2025
๐—จ๐—ง๐—œ๐—Ÿ๐—œ๐—ญ๐—œ๐—ก๐—š ๐—ก๐—”๐—ง๐—จ๐—ฅ๐—”๐—Ÿ ๐—Ÿ๐—œ๐—š๐—›๐—ง: ๐—ช๐—œ๐—ก๐——๐—ข๐—ช ๐—ฃ๐—Ÿ๐—”๐—–๐—˜๐— ๐—˜๐—ก๐—ง ๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—ฅ๐—”๐—ง๐—˜๐—š๐—œ๐—˜๐—ฆ ๐—™๐—ข๐—ฅ ๐—–๐—ข๐—”๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—”๐—Ÿ ๐—›๐—ข๐— ๐—˜๐—ฆ ๐ŸŒ…๐ŸชŸ Natural light is one of the most valuable assets in any coastal home. It enhances the sense of space, highlights architectural features, and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. In coastal environments, thoughtful window placement can also take advantage of views and reduce energy consumption. At South Texas Home Builders, we design homes that harness the sun’s power to brighten your interiors—while protecting against heat and glare. ๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—ฅ๐—”๐—ง๐—˜๐—š๐—ฌ #1: ๐—ข๐—ฅ๐—œ๐—˜๐—ก๐—ง ๐—ง๐—ข ๐—ง๐—›๐—˜ ๐—ฆ๐—จ๐—ก โ˜€๏ธ๐Ÿงญ The direction your home faces affects how much light different rooms receive. โœ… Tips for Orientation: โœ”๏ธ South-facing windows bring in steady light all day โœ”๏ธ East-facing windows capture cool morning light โœ”๏ธ West-facing windows offer dramatic sunset views (but can cause glare) โœ”๏ธ North-facing windows give even, soft light—ideal for studios or offices ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: We study your lot’s layout and surrounding structures to maximize your home’s solar exposure. ๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—ฅ๐—”๐—ง๐—˜๐—š๐—ฌ #2: ๐—ง๐—”๐—ž๐—˜ ๐—”๐——๐—ฉ๐—”๐—ก๐—ง๐—”๐—š๐—˜ ๐—ข๐—™ ๐—ฉ๐—œ๐—˜๐—ช๐—ฆ ๐ŸŒŠ๐ŸŒด Windows aren’t just for light—they frame the natural beauty outside your home. โœ… Design Ideas: โœ”๏ธ Large picture windows for water views โœ”๏ธ Corner windows for panoramic scenery โœ”๏ธ Clerestory windows for privacy and light โœ”๏ธ Transoms and sidelights to enhance entryways ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: We use window groupings and varied heights to bring light into both public and private spaces. ๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—ฅ๐—”๐—ง๐—˜๐—š๐—ฌ #3: ๐—ฃ๐—ฅ๐—˜๐—ฉ๐—˜๐—ก๐—ง ๐—ข๐—ฉ๐—˜๐—ฅ๐—›๐—˜๐—”๐—ง๐—œ๐—ก๐—š ๐Ÿ”ฅ๐Ÿ›‘ Too much sunlight can raise interior temps and fade furnishings—especially in hot, humid climates. โœ… Smart Shading Options: โœ”๏ธ Deep roof overhangs or covered porches โœ”๏ธ Low-E glass to block heat and UV rays โœ”๏ธ Coastal-grade window treatments like plantation shutters โœ”๏ธ Strategic landscaping (palms, trellises, etc.) ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: We select window placements that balance natural light with protection from afternoon heat. ๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—ฅ๐—”๐—ง๐—˜๐—š๐—ฌ #4: ๐— ๐—œ๐—ซ ๐—ช๐—œ๐—ก๐——๐—ข๐—ช ๐—ง๐—ฌ๐—ฃ๐—˜๐—ฆ ๐—™๐—ข๐—ฅ ๐—ฉ๐—˜๐—ก๐—ง๐—œ๐—Ÿ๐—”๐—ง๐—œ๐—ข๐—ก ๐ŸŒฌ๏ธ๐ŸชŸ Let your windows work double duty—bring in light and fresh air. โœ… Options to Consider: โœ”๏ธ Casement windows to catch coastal breezes โœ”๏ธ Awning windows high on walls for light and airflow โœ”๏ธ Operable skylights to release heat buildup โœ”๏ธ Sliding glass doors that connect to outdoor spaces ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: We combine fixed and operable windows for maximum airflow without sacrificing views. ๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—ฅ๐—”๐—ง๐—˜๐—š๐—ฌ #5: ๐—–๐—ฅ๐—˜๐—”๐—ง๐—˜ ๐—™๐—ข๐—–๐—”๐—Ÿ ๐—ฃ๐—ข๐—œ๐—ก๐—ง๐—ฆ ๐—ช๐—œ๐—ง๐—› ๐—Ÿ๐—œ๐—š๐—›๐—ง ๐Ÿ’ก๐Ÿ“ Let natural light highlight your home’s most beautiful spaces. โœ… Design Highlights: โœ”๏ธ Dining nooks wrapped in glass โœ”๏ธ Light-filled staircases with tall vertical windows โœ”๏ธ Spa-inspired bathrooms with frosted clerestories โœ”๏ธ Art walls washed with sunlight ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: Light is a design element in itself—we use it to enhance mood and create wow moments. — ๐—•๐—จ๐—œ๐—Ÿ๐—— ๐—ช๐—œ๐—ง๐—› ๐—Ÿ๐—œ๐—š๐—›๐—ง ๐—œ๐—ก ๐— ๐—œ๐—ก๐—— The right window placement turns your coastal home into a sunlit sanctuary. From energy savings to stunning interiors, natural light is one of your best design tools. ๏ปฟ ๐Ÿ“ž Contact South Texas Home Builders to start designing your custom coastal home with thoughtful light and window strategy built in.
By Blake Brown August 1, 2025
๐—ง๐—›๐—˜ ๐—•๐—˜๐—ก๐—˜๐—™๐—œ๐—ง๐—ฆ ๐—ข๐—™ ๐—ข๐—ฃ๐—˜๐—ก ๐—™๐—Ÿ๐—ข๐—ข๐—ฅ ๐—ฃ๐—Ÿ๐—”๐—ก๐—ฆ ๐—œ๐—ก ๐—–๐—ข๐—”๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—”๐—Ÿ ๐—›๐—ข๐— ๐—˜ ๐——๐—˜๐—ฆ๐—œ๐—š๐—ก ๐ŸŒŠ๐Ÿ›‹๏ธ Open floor plans are a staple in modern coastal home design—and for good reason. Whether you're building a primary residence or a beach getaway, open layouts create a bright, breezy atmosphere that enhances every aspect of daily living by the sea. At South Texas Home Builders, we specialize in designing open-concept homes that are functional, beautiful, and made for coastal life. ๐—ฅ๐—˜๐—”๐—ฆ๐—ข๐—ก #1: ๐— ๐—”๐—ซ๐—œ๐— ๐—จ๐—  ๐—ก๐—”๐—ง๐—จ๐—ฅ๐—”๐—Ÿ ๐—Ÿ๐—œ๐—š๐—›๐—ง โ˜€๏ธ๐ŸชŸ With fewer walls blocking the flow of sunlight, open floor plans flood your home with natural light. โœ… Why It Matters: โœ”๏ธ Brighter interiors without relying on artificial lighting โœ”๏ธ Expansive views of the beach, bay, or dunes โœ”๏ธ A more cheerful and spacious atmosphere ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: We align window and door placement to optimize daylighting and ocean breezes. ๐—ฅ๐—˜๐—”๐—ฆ๐—ข๐—ก #2: ๐—˜๐—ก๐—›๐—”๐—ก๐—–๐—˜๐—— ๐—œ๐—ก๐——๐—ข๐—ข๐—ฅ-๐—ข๐—จ๐—ง๐——๐—ข๐—ข๐—ฅ ๐—™๐—Ÿ๐—ข๐—ช ๐Ÿ–๏ธ๐Ÿšช Coastal living is all about seamless transitions between inside and out. โœ… Smart Layout Ideas: โœ”๏ธ Open living areas that connect directly to patios or decks โœ”๏ธ Expansive sliding or folding glass doors โœ”๏ธ Unified design that blends outdoor kitchens, lounges, and pools ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: We use durable flooring and finishes that flow from interior to exterior for a cohesive look. ๐—ฅ๐—˜๐—”๐—ฆ๐—ข๐—ก #3: ๐—ฃ๐—˜๐—ฅ๐—™๐—˜๐—–๐—ง ๐—™๐—ข๐—ฅ ๐—˜๐—ก๐—ง๐—˜๐—ฅ๐—ง๐—”๐—œ๐—ก๐—œ๐—ก๐—š ๐Ÿฝ๏ธ๐Ÿฅ‚ Whether you're hosting weekend guests or family gatherings, open plans make entertaining easier. โœ… Entertainer-Friendly Features: โœ”๏ธ Large central islands with bar seating โœ”๏ธ Dining and living areas connected to the kitchen โœ”๏ธ Clear sightlines so everyone feels part of the conversation ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: We can create zones within your open layout for cooking, lounging, and dining without feeling closed in. ๐—ฅ๐—˜๐—”๐—ฆ๐—ข๐—ก #4: ๐—œ๐—ก๐—–๐—ฅ๐—˜๐—”๐—ฆ๐—˜๐—— ๐—™๐—Ÿ๐—˜๐—ซ๐—œ๐—•๐—œ๐—Ÿ๐—œ๐—ง๐—ฌ ๐—”๐—ก๐—— ๐—™๐—จ๐—ง๐—จ๐—ฅ๐—˜-๐—ฃ๐—ฅ๐—ข๐—ข๐—™๐—œ๐—ก๐—š ๐Ÿ”„๐Ÿ›๏ธ Open spaces are easier to adapt as your needs change. โœ… Long-Term Benefits: โœ”๏ธ Reconfigure furniture or repurpose areas easily โœ”๏ธ Add a reading nook, workspace, or kids’ play zone โœ”๏ธ Easier to age in place with fewer barriers ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: We design with structural support that allows flexibility for future updates or additions. ๐—ฅ๐—˜๐—”๐—ฆ๐—ข๐—ก #5: ๐—ฆ๐—œ๐— ๐—ฃ๐—Ÿ๐—˜๐—ฅ ๐—–๐—ข๐—ข๐—Ÿ๐—œ๐—ก๐—š ๐—”๐—ก๐—— ๐—ฉ๐—˜๐—ก๐—ง๐—œ๐—Ÿ๐—”๐—ง๐—œ๐—ข๐—ก ๐ŸŒฌ๏ธ๐Ÿ’จ Open layouts support better airflow and more efficient cooling—critical in humid climates. โœ… Climate Control Wins: โœ”๏ธ Fewer obstructions for cross-ventilation โœ”๏ธ Better HVAC efficiency with smart zoning โœ”๏ธ Ceiling fans that circulate air more effectively ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: Strategic window placement and open spaces reduce reliance on AC and lower energy costs. — ๐—ข๐—ฃ๐—˜๐—ก ๐—™๐—Ÿ๐—ข๐—ข๐—ฅ ๐—ฃ๐—Ÿ๐—”๐—ก๐—ฆ: ๐—•๐—ฅ๐—œ๐—š๐—›๐—ง๐—˜๐—ฅ, ๐—•๐—œ๐—š๐—š๐—˜๐—ฅ, ๐—•๐—˜๐—ง๐—ง๐—˜๐—ฅ Whether you're after a relaxed beach vibe or a modern showstopper, an open floor plan delivers comfort and style with a coastal twist. ๏ปฟ ๐Ÿ“ž Contact South Texas Home Builders today to start designing your custom home with an open concept tailored to your lifestyle.
By Blake Brown August 1, 2025
๐—œ๐—ก๐—–๐—ข๐—ฅ๐—ฃ๐—ข๐—ฅ๐—”๐—ง๐—œ๐—ก๐—š ๐—˜๐—ก๐—˜๐—ฅ๐—š๐—ฌ-๐—˜๐—™๐—™๐—œ๐—–๐—œ๐—˜๐—ก๐—ง ๐—™๐—˜๐—”๐—ง๐—จ๐—ฅ๐—˜๐—ฆ ๐—œ๐—ก๐—ง๐—ข ๐—ฌ๐—ข๐—จ๐—ฅ ๐—–๐—ข๐—”๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—”๐—Ÿ ๐—›๐—ข๐— ๐—˜ โšก๐Ÿก Designing a custom home on the Texas coast gives you the opportunity to build smarter from the ground up. With increasing energy costs and a greater focus on sustainability, incorporating energy-efficient features isn’t just eco-conscious—it’s practical and future-ready. Here’s how South Texas Home Builders helps our clients maximize efficiency without sacrificing style or comfort. ๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—˜๐—ฃ 1: ๐—˜๐—ก๐—˜๐—ฅ๐—š๐—ฌ-๐—˜๐—™๐—™๐—œ๐—–๐—œ๐—˜๐—ก๐—ง ๐—œ๐—ก๐—ฆ๐—จ๐—Ÿ๐—”๐—ง๐—œ๐—ข๐—ก + ๐—˜๐—ก๐—ฉ๐—˜๐—Ÿ๐—ข๐—ฃ๐—˜ ๐Ÿงฑ๐ŸงŠ A tightly sealed home is a more efficient home—especially in humid coastal environments. โœ… Smart Insulation Strategies: โœ”๏ธ Spray foam or rigid foam board for air sealing โœ”๏ธ Radiant barriers in attics to reduce heat gain โœ”๏ธ Advanced sheathing like Zip System panels for weather resistance ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: Our wall and roof systems are designed to fight both heat and moisture intrusion—critical for coastal climates. ๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—˜๐—ฃ 2: ๐—ช๐—œ๐—ก๐——๐—ข๐—ช๐—ฆ + ๐——๐—ข๐—ข๐—ฅ๐—ฆ ๐—ง๐—›๐—”๐—ง ๐—ช๐—ข๐—ฅ๐—ž ๐—›๐—”๐—ฅ๐——๐—˜๐—ฅ ๐ŸชŸ๐ŸŒฌ๏ธ High-performance windows and doors do double duty: keeping your home comfortable and lowering your energy use. โœ… Best-in-Class Features: โœ”๏ธ Low-E glass that blocks UV rays and reduces heat gain โœ”๏ธ Double or triple glazing for better insulation โœ”๏ธ Insulated fiberglass or steel exterior doors ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: Proper sealing and flashing around openings prevents air leaks and protects against salt air corrosion. ๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—˜๐—ฃ 3: ๐—›๐—œ๐—š๐—›-๐—˜๐—™๐—™๐—œ๐—–๐—œ๐—˜๐—ก๐—–๐—ฌ ๐—›๐—ฉ๐—”๐—– ๐—ฆ๐—ฌ๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—˜๐— ๐—ฆ ๐ŸŒก๏ธ๐Ÿ’จ Your heating and cooling system is one of the biggest energy users—make it work smarter. โœ… Efficient Climate Control: โœ”๏ธ Variable-speed heat pumps or inverter-driven systems โœ”๏ธ Programmable smart thermostats โœ”๏ธ Zoned HVAC for multi-level homes ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: We’ll help you size your system correctly—oversizing can actually reduce efficiency. ๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—˜๐—ฃ 4: ๐—˜๐—™๐—™๐—œ๐—–๐—œ๐—˜๐—ก๐—ง ๐—Ÿ๐—œ๐—š๐—›๐—ง๐—œ๐—ก๐—š + ๐—”๐—ฃ๐—ฃ๐—Ÿ๐—œ๐—”๐—ก๐—–๐—˜๐—ฆ ๐Ÿ’ก๐Ÿ”Œ Modern lighting and Energy Star appliances help save energy every day without extra effort. โœ… Energy-Saving Fixtures: โœ”๏ธ LED recessed lighting and under-cabinet strips โœ”๏ธ ENERGY STAR-rated refrigerators, dishwashers, and laundry machines โœ”๏ธ Ceiling fans for natural cooling ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: We’ll guide you in selecting long-lasting LED fixtures that reduce maintenance and energy use. ๏ปฟ ๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—˜๐—ฃ 5: ๐—ฅ๐—˜๐—ก๐—˜๐—ช๐—”๐—•๐—Ÿ๐—˜ ๐—˜๐—ก๐—˜๐—ฅ๐—š๐—ฌ ๐—ข๐—ฃ๐—ง๐—œ๐—ข๐—ก๐—ฆ โ˜€๏ธ๐Ÿ”‹ Looking to go greener? Solar energy and battery backup systems are becoming increasingly popular for coastal builds. โœ… Clean Energy Ideas: โœ”๏ธ Solar panels or solar shingles โœ”๏ธ Battery storage for outages and peak-time savings โœ”๏ธ EV charger wiring for future needs ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: We coordinate with local solar pros and make sure your roof and electrical system are solar-ready. — ๐— ๐—”๐—ž๐—˜ ๐—˜๐—ก๐—˜๐—ฅ๐—š๐—ฌ ๐—˜๐—™๐—™๐—œ๐—–๐—œ๐—˜๐—ก๐—–๐—ฌ ๐—” ๐—™๐—˜๐—”๐—ง๐—จ๐—ฅ๐—˜—๐—ก๐—ข๐—ง ๐—”๐—ก ๐—”๐—™๐—ง๐—˜๐—ฅ๐—ง๐—›๐—ข๐—จ๐—š๐—›๐—ง When you build with South Texas Home Builders, we help you create a coastal home that’s not only beautiful, but built for the future. ๐Ÿ“ž Contact us to start designing your energy-efficient dream home on the Texas coast—lower bills, higher comfort, and smarter living await.
By Blake Brown August 1, 2025
This is a subtitle for your new post
By Blake Brown August 1, 2025
๐—ฆ๐—˜๐—Ÿ๐—˜๐—–๐—ง๐—œ๐—ก๐—š ๐——๐—จ๐—ฅ๐—”๐—•๐—Ÿ๐—˜ ๐—ฅ๐—ข๐—ข๐—™๐—œ๐—ก๐—š ๐— ๐—”๐—ง๐—˜๐—ฅ๐—œ๐—”๐—Ÿ๐—ฆ ๐—™๐—ข๐—ฅ ๐—–๐—ข๐—”๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—”๐—Ÿ ๐—–๐—Ÿ๐—œ๐— ๐—”๐—ง๐—˜๐—ฆ ๐Ÿ ๐ŸŒช๏ธ ๏ปฟ Your roof is your home’s first line of defense—especially in coastal Texas, where intense sun, heavy rain, high winds, and salt air are part of everyday life. At South Texas Home Builders, we help our clients select roofing materials that are not only beautiful but also built to withstand coastal conditions. Here’s how to make a smart, long-term roofing choice for your custom coastal home. ๐—ช๐—›๐—”๐—ง ๐— ๐—”๐—ž๐—˜๐—ฆ ๐—” ๐—ฅ๐—ข๐—ข๐—™ “๐—–๐—ข๐—”๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—”๐—Ÿ ๐——๐—จ๐—ฅ๐—”๐—•๐—Ÿ๐—˜” ๐ŸŒŠ๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ Not all roofing materials are created equal—especially when exposed to salt, wind, and moisture. โœ… Key Coastal Roofing Traits: โœ”๏ธ Wind resistance of 130+ mph โœ”๏ธ Corrosion-resistant materials โœ”๏ธ UV and impact protection โœ”๏ธ Water-shedding design ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: Durability doesn’t have to sacrifice style—many weather-resistant options come in coastal-inspired colors and textures. ๐—ง๐—ข๐—ฃ ๐—ฅ๐—ข๐—ข๐—™๐—œ๐—ก๐—š ๐—ข๐—ฃ๐—ง๐—œ๐—ข๐—ก๐—ฆ ๐—™๐—ข๐—ฅ ๐—–๐—ข๐—”๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—”๐—Ÿ ๐—›๐—ข๐— ๐—˜๐—ฆ ๐Ÿงฑ๐Ÿ—๏ธ We work with homeowners to match performance with aesthetics and budget. โœ… Best Roofing Materials: โœ”๏ธ Standing Seam Metal Roofing – Highly wind-resistant and rust-resistant with modern or coastal farmhouse appeal โœ”๏ธ Synthetic Slate or Shake – Looks like traditional materials but made from polymers designed to withstand extreme weather โœ”๏ธ Clay or Concrete Tile – Timeless look with good storm durability (best for reinforced structures) โœ”๏ธ Architectural Asphalt Shingles – Budget-friendly, high wind-rated, and UV protected ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: Metal roofs with Kynar® coatings offer long-term protection from salt and fading without constant maintenance. ๐—–๐—ข๐—”๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—”๐—Ÿ ๐—ฅ๐—ข๐—ข๐—™๐—œ๐—ก๐—š ๐—–๐—ข๐—ก๐—ฆ๐—œ๐——๐—˜๐—ฅ๐—”๐—ง๐—œ๐—ข๐—ก๐—ฆ ๐Ÿงฐ๐Ÿ“ Your roof is more than what’s on top—it’s about how everything ties together. โœ… Things to Consider: โœ”๏ธ Roof pitch for optimal water runoff โœ”๏ธ Gutter and drainage planning โœ”๏ธ Soffit and ridge vents for ventilation โœ”๏ธ Roof color and energy efficiency ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: Lighter-colored roofing materials reflect sunlight and help regulate indoor temperatures in coastal climates. ๐—ฃ๐—ฅ๐—ข๐—™๐—˜๐—ฆ๐—ฆ๐—œ๐—ข๐—ก๐—”๐—Ÿ ๐—œ๐—ก๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—”๐—Ÿ๐—Ÿ๐—”๐—ง๐—œ๐—ข๐—ก ๐— ๐—”๐—ง๐—ง๐—˜๐—ฅ๐—ฆ ๐Ÿ”จ? The best roofing material won’t perform if installed incorrectly. We partner with trusted roofing contractors who understand the unique needs of coastal homes. โœ… Our Process: โœ”๏ธ Windstorm certification and inspections โœ”๏ธ Coastal fasteners and underlayments โœ”๏ธ Detailed flashings and waterproofing โœ”๏ธ Lifetime warranty options available ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: Don’t forget about insurance discounts—many wind-rated roofing systems may qualify you for lower premiums. — ๐—•๐˜‚๐—ถ๐—น๐—ฑ ๐—ช๐—ถ๐˜๐—ต ๐—–๐—ผ๐—ป๐—ณ๐—ถ๐—ฑ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐—ฐ๐—ฒ The right roof protects your investment—and completes your home’s curb appeal. At South Texas Home Builders, we’ll help you choose a roofing system that holds strong against the elements while looking great for years to come. ๐Ÿ“ž Contact us today to begin planning your custom coastal home with durable, high-performance roofing built for the Texas coast.
By Blake Brown August 1, 2025
๐—จ๐—ก๐——๐—˜๐—ฅ๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—”๐—ก๐——๐—œ๐—ก๐—š ๐—™๐—Ÿ๐—ข๐—ข๐—— ๐—ญ๐—ข๐—ก๐—˜๐—ฆ ๐—”๐—ก๐—— ๐—œ๐—ก๐—ฆ๐—จ๐—ฅ๐—”๐—ก๐—–๐—˜ ๐—™๐—ข๐—ฅ ๐—–๐—ข๐—”๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—”๐—Ÿ ๐—ฃ๐—ฅ๐—ข๐—ฃ๐—˜๐—ฅ๐—ง๐—œ๐—˜๐—ฆ ๐ŸŒŠ๐Ÿ“‹ When building or buying a home on the Texas coast, understanding your flood zone and insurance requirements isn’t optional—it’s essential. Coastal properties are beautiful, but they also come with unique risks. At South Texas Home Builders, we help our clients navigate flood zone classifications and understand how to protect their investment. Here’s what you need to know about flood zones and insurance before building your dream home by the water. ๐—™๐—Ÿ๐—ข๐—ข๐—— ๐—ญ๐—ข๐—ก๐—˜๐—ฆ: ๐—ช๐—›๐—”๐—ง ๐—ง๐—›๐—˜๐—ฌ ๐—”๐—ฅ๐—˜ + ๐—ช๐—›๐—ฌ ๐—ง๐—›๐—˜๐—ฌ ๐— ๐—”๐—ง๐—ง๐—˜๐—ฅ ๐ŸŒง๏ธ๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ Flood zones are defined by FEMA to indicate how likely an area is to flood during a major storm or weather event. โœ… Common Flood Zone Types: โœ”๏ธ Zone X – Minimal risk (no mandatory insurance) โœ”๏ธ Zone AE – High-risk areas with known floodplains โœ”๏ธ Zone VE – High-risk coastal areas subject to wave action ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: Just because a lot is in Zone X doesn’t mean it’s flood-proof. We always recommend flood-conscious design. ๐—›๐—ข๐—ช ๐—ง๐—›๐—˜๐—ฆ๐—˜ ๐—ญ๐—ข๐—ก๐—˜๐—ฆ ๐—”๐—™๐—™๐—˜๐—–๐—ง ๐—ฌ๐—ข๐—จ๐—ฅ ๐—›๐—ข๐— ๐—˜ ๐——๐—˜๐—ฆ๐—œ๐—š๐—ก ๐Ÿ“๐Ÿ  Flood zones impact how high your home must be built and what kinds of foundations are allowed. โœ… Flood Design Considerations: โœ”๏ธ Building above Base Flood Elevation (BFE) โœ”๏ธ Using flood vents or breakaway walls for enclosures โœ”๏ธ Designing pier-and-beam or stilt foundations in VE zones ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: Elevating your home can significantly lower insurance premiums—and offer better coastal views. ๐—ง๐—›๐—˜ ๐—ฅ๐—ข๐—Ÿ๐—˜ ๐—ข๐—™ ๐—™๐—Ÿ๐—ข๐—ข๐—— ๐—œ๐—ก๐—ฆ๐—จ๐—ฅ๐—”๐—ก๐—–๐—˜ ๐Ÿ’ธ๐Ÿ›Ÿ Flood damage isn’t covered by standard homeowners insurance. If your home is in a FEMA-designated flood zone, separate flood insurance is required by most lenders. โœ… What to Know: โœ”๏ธ Flood insurance is available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) โœ”๏ธ Premiums vary based on zone, elevation, and structure type โœ”๏ธ Private insurers may offer additional coverage options ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: Elevation certificates can help reduce your premium—ask us how we can help you obtain one. ๐—ฃ๐—ฅ๐—˜๐—ฃ๐—”๐—ฅ๐—œ๐—ก๐—š ๐—™๐—ข๐—ฅ ๐—ฅ๐—˜๐—”๐—Ÿ ๐—ช๐—˜๐—”๐—ง๐—›๐—˜๐—ฅ ๐—ฅ๐—œ๐—ฆ๐—ž๐—ฆ โ›ˆ๏ธ๐Ÿ“ฆ In coastal regions, flood insurance is just one part of a smart protection plan. Your home’s build and materials should be part of the strategy. โœ… Resilience Features: โœ”๏ธ Water-resistant materials for lower levels โœ”๏ธ Proper drainage grading around your property โœ”๏ธ Impact-rated doors, windows, and sealed electrical systems ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: Every custom home we build on the coast includes structural and drainage planning with flood safety in mind. — ๐—ฃ๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ฐ๐˜ ๐—ฌ๐—ผ๐˜‚๐—ฟ ๐—›๐—ผ๐—บ๐—ฒ ๐—™๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐—บ ๐——๐—ฎ๐˜† ๐—ข๐—ป๐—ฒ Flood zones don’t have to be scary—if you build smart from the start. At South Texas Home Builders, we help you understand your property’s risks and design a home that’s safe, insurable, and ready for life by the water. ๏ปฟ ๐Ÿ“ž Contact us today to start your custom coastal build with confidence.
By Blake Brown August 1, 2025
๐——๐—˜๐—ฆ๐—œ๐—š๐—ก๐—œ๐—ก๐—š ๐—ข๐—จ๐—ง๐——๐—ข๐—ข๐—ฅ ๐—Ÿ๐—œ๐—ฉ๐—œ๐—ก๐—š ๐—ฆ๐—ฃ๐—”๐—–๐—˜๐—ฆ ๐—™๐—ข๐—ฅ ๐—–๐—ข๐—”๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—”๐—Ÿ ๐—›๐—ข๐— ๐—˜๐—ฆ ๐ŸŒ…๐Ÿชด There’s nothing quite like enjoying the sea breeze and warm coastal sunsets from the comfort of your own backyard. That’s why outdoor living spaces are such a key element in coastal custom home design. At South Texas Home Builders, we believe your outdoor areas should be just as functional, inviting, and weather-ready as the inside of your home. Here’s how we help homeowners create coastal outdoor living spaces that are both beautiful and built to last. ๐—ฃ๐—ฅ๐—ข๐—ง๐—˜๐—–๐—ง๐—˜๐—— ๐—ฆ๐—›๐—”๐——๐—˜ + ๐—–๐—ข๐— ๐—™๐—ข๐—ฅ๐—ง โ˜€๏ธ๐ŸŒ€ The Texas sun can be intense, especially near the coast. Shaded spaces make your yard more usable year-round. โœ… Shade-Friendly Features: โœ”๏ธ Covered patios and decks with ceiling fans โœ”๏ธ Pergolas with UV-resistant fabric or louvered roofs โœ”๏ธ Retractable awnings or motorized shades ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: Integrating shade with your home’s architecture ensures it looks intentional—and adds long-term value. ๐—–๐—ข๐—”๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—”๐—Ÿ ๐—™๐—จ๐—ฅ๐—ก๐—œ๐—ง๐—จ๐—ฅ๐—˜ + ๐—™๐—”๐—•๐—ฅ๐—œ๐—–๐—ฆ ๐Ÿช‘๐ŸŒŠ Not all outdoor furniture is made for salt and sun. We help you select durable, stylish pieces that can handle coastal conditions. โœ… Weather-Safe Materials: โœ”๏ธ Marine-grade stainless steel or powder-coated aluminum โœ”๏ธ UV- and mildew-resistant cushions โœ”๏ธ All-weather wicker and teak ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: Choose fade-resistant fabrics like Sunbrella® for long-lasting style. ๐—ข๐—จ๐—ง๐——๐—ข๐—ข๐—ฅ ๐—–๐—ข๐—ข๐—ž๐—œ๐—ก๐—š + ๐—˜๐—ก๐—ง๐—˜๐—ฅ๐—ง๐—”๐—œ๐—ก๐—œ๐—ก๐—š ๐Ÿฝ๏ธ๐Ÿ”ฅ Outdoor kitchens and gathering spaces make entertaining a breeze by the bay. โœ… Coastal Kitchen Ideas: โœ”๏ธ Built-in grills, prep sinks, and beverage coolers โœ”๏ธ Bar seating and weather-resistant cabinetry โœ”๏ธ Ambient lighting and sound systems ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: We can run gas, water, and electrical to your outdoor setup during your home build—saving you money down the line. ๐—™๐—œ๐—ฅ๐—˜ ๐—ฃ๐—œ๐—ง๐—ฆ + ๐—ช๐—”๐—ง๐—˜๐—ฅ ๐—™๐—˜๐—”๐—ง๐—จ๐—ฅ๐—˜๐—ฆ ๐Ÿ”ฅ๐Ÿ’ง Add ambiance and functionality to your outdoor space with fire and water elements. โœ… Popular Additions: โœ”๏ธ Gas fire pits or outdoor fireplaces for cool evenings โœ”๏ธ Coastal-style fountains or reflecting pools โœ”๏ธ Built-in spa or plunge pool options ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: These upgrades boost enjoyment—and boost resale value in coastal markets. ๐—™๐—จ๐—ก๐—–๐—ง๐—œ๐—ข๐—ก๐—”๐—Ÿ ๐—™๐—Ÿ๐—ข๐—ช + ๐—Ÿ๐—”๐—ก๐——๐—ฆ๐—–๐—”๐—ฃ๐—˜ ๐—œ๐—ก๐—ง๐—˜๐—š๐—ฅ๐—”๐—ง๐—œ๐—ข๐—ก ๐ŸŒด๐Ÿงฑ Your outdoor space should feel like a natural extension of your interior—and work with the land, not against it. โœ… Smart Layout Strategies: โœ”๏ธ Walkways that connect patio, pool, and lawn โœ”๏ธ Salt-tolerant landscaping and coastal plants โœ”๏ธ Stormwater-conscious grading and drainage ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: We design outdoor spaces during your home’s planning phase, not after—ensuring the best use of your lot. — ๐—•๐—ฟ๐—ฒ๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ต๐—ฒ ๐—ถ๐—ป ๐—ง๐—ต๐—ฒ ๐—ข๐—ฐ๐—ฒ๐—ฎ๐—ป ๐—”๐—ถ๐—ฟ ๐—™๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐—บ ๐—ฌ๐—ผ๐˜‚๐—ฟ ๐—ข๐˜„๐—ป ๐—•๐—ฎ๐—ฐ๐—ธ ๐—ฃ๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ถ๐—ผ From evening barbecues to peaceful coffee mornings, your outdoor space sets the tone for your coastal lifestyle. South Texas Home Builders helps you design outdoor areas that are functional, comfortable, and built for the beachside breeze. ๏ปฟ ๐Ÿ“ž Contact us today to start your custom coastal home—and let’s create a backyard you’ll never want to leave.
By Blake Brown August 1, 2025
๐—ง๐—›๐—˜ ๐—œ๐— ๐—ฃ๐—”๐—–๐—ง ๐—ข๐—™ ๐—ฆ๐—”๐—Ÿ๐—ง ๐—”๐—œ๐—ฅ ๐—ข๐—ก ๐—›๐—ข๐— ๐—˜ ๐— ๐—”๐—ง๐—˜๐—ฅ๐—œ๐—”๐—Ÿ๐—ฆ ๐—”๐—ก๐—— ๐—›๐—ข๐—ช ๐—ง๐—ข ๐— ๐—œ๐—ง๐—œ๐—š๐—”๐—ง๐—˜ ๐—œ๐—ง ๐ŸŒฌ๏ธ๐ŸŒŠ Living by the coast offers breathtaking views and a laid-back lifestyle—but the salty air can be tough on your home. From corrosion to discoloration, salt in the air accelerates wear and tear on materials if not properly accounted for during the building process. At South Texas Home Builders, we understand coastal conditions and use smart design and material strategies to combat salt air damage from the start. Here’s what homeowners need to know—and how to protect their investment. ๐—ช๐—›๐—ฌ ๐—ฆ๐—”๐—Ÿ๐—ง ๐—”๐—œ๐—ฅ ๐—œ๐—ฆ ๐—›๐—”๐—ฅ๐—— ๐—ข๐—ก ๐—›๐—ข๐— ๐—˜๐—ฆ ๐Ÿ’จ๐Ÿง‚ Salt-laden air from the Gulf Coast is naturally corrosive and can break down materials faster than in inland climates. โœ… Common Effects of Salt Air: โœ”๏ธ Metal corrosion (rusting of fixtures, hardware, and structural elements) โœ”๏ธ Paint and finish deterioration โœ”๏ธ Window seal breakdown and fogging โœ”๏ธ Discoloration of siding and masonry ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: The closer your home is to the water, the more exposed it is—so material selection and protective finishes are key. ๐— ๐—”๐—ง๐—˜๐—ฅ๐—œ๐—”๐—Ÿ๐—ฆ ๐—ง๐—›๐—”๐—ง ๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—”๐—ก๐—— ๐—จ๐—ฃ ๐—ง๐—ข ๐—ฆ๐—”๐—Ÿ๐—ง ๐—”๐—œ๐—ฅ ๐Ÿ—๏ธ๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ We prioritize materials engineered to resist corrosion, fading, and moisture penetration. โœ… Recommended Exterior Materials: โœ”๏ธ Fiber cement siding (resists salt, sun, and moisture) โœ”๏ธ Stainless steel or powder-coated aluminum hardware โœ”๏ธ Composite decking and trim that won’t warp or rot โœ”๏ธ Marine-grade fasteners and connectors โœ… Roofing & Paint Choices: โœ”๏ธ Galvalume or standing seam metal roofing with coastal warranties โœ”๏ธ High-performance exterior paints with UV and salt resistance ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: We also use barrier systems (like flashing, sealants, and drainage planes) that reduce salt and moisture intrusion at the structural level. ๐— ๐—”๐—œ๐—ก๐—ง๐—˜๐—ก๐—”๐—ก๐—–๐—˜ ๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—ฅ๐—”๐—ง๐—˜๐—š๐—œ๐—˜๐—ฆ ๐—™๐—ข๐—ฅ ๐—–๐—ข๐—”๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—”๐—Ÿ ๐—›๐—ข๐— ๐—˜๐—ฆ ๐Ÿงผ๐Ÿงฐ Preventive maintenance extends the life of your home’s finishes and keeps it looking like new. โœ… Salt Air Maintenance Tips: โœ”๏ธ Rinse exterior surfaces with fresh water every few months โœ”๏ธ Inspect and lubricate metal hardware and hinges โœ”๏ธ Reapply protective coatings as recommended by manufacturers โœ”๏ธ Schedule professional cleanings for windows and siding ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: Even “low-maintenance” materials require occasional upkeep—ask us for a custom maintenance checklist for your build. — ๐—ฃ๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ฐ๐˜ ๐—ฌ๐—ผ๐˜‚๐—ฟ ๐—œ๐—ป๐˜ƒ๐—ฒ๐˜€๐˜๐—บ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐˜ ๐—ช๐—ถ๐˜๐—ต ๐—–๐—ผ๐—ฎ๐˜€๐˜๐—ฎ๐—น-๐—ง๐—ฎ๐—ถ๐—น๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐—ฒ๐—ฑ ๐——๐—ฒ๐˜€๐—ถ๐—ด๐—ป At South Texas Home Builders, we combine beautiful design with the durability you need for life on the coast. From smart material choices to maintenance-minded layouts, we help you build a home that stands up to the salt, wind, and time. ๏ปฟ ๐Ÿ“ž Contact us today to start your coastal custom home—with confidence in every detail.
By Blake Brown August 1, 2025
๐—œ๐—ก๐—–๐—ข๐—ฅ๐—ฃ๐—ข๐—ฅ๐—”๐—ง๐—œ๐—ก๐—š ๐—ฆ๐— ๐—”๐—ฅ๐—ง ๐—›๐—ข๐— ๐—˜ ๐—ง๐—˜๐—–๐—›๐—ก๐—ข๐—Ÿ๐—ข๐—š๐—ฌ ๐—œ๐—ก๐—ง๐—ข ๐—–๐—ข๐—”๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—”๐—Ÿ ๐—Ÿ๐—œ๐—ฉ๐—œ๐—ก๐—š ๐Ÿ“ฑ๐Ÿก Today’s coastal homes are as intelligent as they are beautiful. Smart home technology offers convenience, efficiency, and protection—features especially valuable in environments like the southern Texas coast. At South Texas Home Builders, we help clients plan for smart integrations from the start, so your home is future-ready from day one. Let’s explore the best ways to incorporate smart home features into your custom coastal build. ๐—ฆ๐— ๐—”๐—ฅ๐—ง ๐—›๐—ข๐— ๐—˜ ๐—•๐—˜๐—ก๐—˜๐—™๐—œ๐—ง๐—ฆ ๐—™๐—ข๐—ฅ ๐—–๐—ข๐—”๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—”๐—Ÿ ๐—›๐—ข๐— ๐—˜๐—ฆ ๐Ÿ’ก๐ŸŒŠ โœ… Remote Access & Control โœ”๏ธ Monitor cameras, adjust lights, and control your HVAC from anywhere โœ”๏ธ Ideal for second homes, vacation rentals, or seasonal living โœ… Energy Efficiency โœ”๏ธ Smart thermostats optimize heating and cooling based on usage โœ”๏ธ Automated lighting and appliances reduce utility costs โœ… Enhanced Security โœ”๏ธ Motion sensors, smart locks, and video doorbells boost peace of mind โœ”๏ธ Alerts can be sent to your phone in real-time โœ… Storm & Weather Preparedness โœ”๏ธ Automated hurricane shutters and water sensors โœ”๏ธ Integration with weather alerts for emergency response ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: Planning for smart home features during the design phase allows for better wiring, signal coverage, and discreet placement of devices. ๐—ฃ๐—ข๐—ฃ๐—จ๐—Ÿ๐—”๐—ฅ ๐—ฆ๐— ๐—”๐—ฅ๐—ง ๐—›๐—ข๐— ๐—˜ ๐—œ๐—ก๐—ง๐—˜๐—š๐—ฅ๐—”๐—ง๐—œ๐—ข๐—ก๐—ฆ ๐Ÿ”ง๐Ÿ“ฒ โœ… Smart Lighting & Blinds โœ”๏ธ Adjust brightness and privacy with a tap or voice command โœ”๏ธ Program lighting for energy savings and vacation mode โœ… Smart Thermostats โœ”๏ธ Learn your schedule and adapt to seasonal coastal temps โœ”๏ธ Control remotely to ensure comfort before you arrive โœ… Audio & Entertainment Systems โœ”๏ธ Stream music indoors and out with whole-home systems โœ”๏ธ Voice-activated controls for hands-free operation โœ… Smart Irrigation & Landscaping โœ”๏ธ Weather-based watering adjusts to rainfall and humidity โœ”๏ธ Keep your yard lush without overusing water โœ… Security Cameras & Entry Systems โœ”๏ธ Monitor deliveries, guests, and property lines โœ”๏ธ Control gates, doors, and alarms remotely ๐——๐—˜๐—ฆ๐—œ๐—š๐—ก๐—œ๐—ก๐—š ๐—ช๐—œ๐—ง๐—› ๐—ง๐—˜๐—–๐—› ๐—™๐—ฅ๐—ข๐—  ๐——๐—”๐—ฌ ๐—ข๐—ก๐—˜ ๐Ÿ“๐Ÿ”Œ Our team helps future-proof your home by integrating smart technology into your design and construction plans—so there’s no need for retrofits later on. ๐Ÿ’ก Builder Tip: Coastal environments can be harsh on electronics. We recommend corrosion-resistant housing and strategic placement to protect your investment. Ready to bring innovation and convenience into your custom coastal home? ๏ปฟ ๐Ÿ“ž Contact South Texas Home Builders today to learn how smart home technology can elevate your lifestyle while keeping your property protected year-round.
By Blake Brown August 1, 2025
The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.
More Posts