Myrtle Beach, SC – As hurricane seasons grow increasingly unpredictable, a new wave of beach construction is emerging, setting a benchmark for hurricane protection and minimal maintenance. 283 Berry Tree Drive leads this innovative approach. This home exemplifies the future of coastal living by combining advanced structural integrity with low-maintenance design, ensuring residents can enjoy the beauty of the coastline without constant upkeep worries.
Sean Hakes, a recent transplant from Colorado, represents the growing trend of homeowners seeking durable, easy-to-maintain residences in hurricane-prone areas. To bring this vision to life, Hakes hired Bryan Maldonado, a contractor from Conway, to help build their dream home. "After moving from Colorado, I wanted a home that wasn't just beautiful but could also withstand some of the worst hurricanes," says Hakes. "With Bryan's expertise, we were able to create a home that meets these exacting standards."
The backbone of these new homes is their exceptional structural integrity, achieved through several cutting-edge features. Hurricane straps are critical in ensuring that homes remain intact during severe storms. These metal connectors secure the roof to the walls and the walls to the foundation, forming a continuous load path. This dramatically enhances the home’s ability to withstand high winds and reduces the likelihood of catastrophic damage.
The QuickTie™ System plays a vital role in bolstering the structural resilience of the house. This system consists of wire rope cables with threaded rod studs swaged to each end and a steel bearing plate at the top. The cables cinch the walls to their foundations, effectively resisting roof uplift and building overturning pressures, thereby ensuring the home stays grounded during intense storms.
The application of closed-cell spray foam insulation to all exterior walls, attics, and flooring adds another layer of protection. This insulation not only waterproofs the structure but also increases its strength. Acting as a vapor barrier, it prevents humid air from penetrating the insulation and entering the home, maintaining a controlled indoor environment and preventing moisture damage.
The choice of Hardie Board siding further fortifies the home. Known for its resistance to windblown debris and fire, Hardie Board provides an added layer of defense against the elements. Its durability ensures that the exterior of the home remains intact and visually appealing even after severe weather events.
A key feature of 283 Berry Tree Drive is its hip roof design, which is particularly advantageous in hurricane-prone areas. Unlike gable roofs, which have only two slopes, hip roofs have four slopes, making them more aerodynamic and less susceptible to wind damage. This design choice significantly reduces the risk of roof failure during hurricanes and tropical storms.
Windows and doors at 283 Berry Tree Drive are designed to withstand extreme conditions. With a DP+55 rating, they can endure winds up to 170 mph. Additionally, they meet Missile D certification, which ensures they can resist impacts from debris, such as a 9-pound 2x4 shot at 50 feet per second. This level of protection is crucial in preventing breaches that could compromise the home’s interior during a storm.
The foundation of the home is built on reinforced concrete pilings, which offer superior strength compared to traditional wood. These pilings are less susceptible to water and humidity damage, ensuring that the home remains stable even during severe flooding. By maximizing the foundation’s strength, the risk of home destruction due to foundation failure is significantly minimized.
Coastal homes often require extensive maintenance due to harsh environmental conditions. However, the design of 283 Berry Tree Drive focuses on reducing these demands, allowing homeowners to enjoy their surroundings without constant repairs.
The exterior of the home utilizes pressure-treated wood that is painted and sealed to withstand the coastal elements. This choice minimizes the need for frequent maintenance and ensures long-term durability. The design also incorporates flood vents in the elevator shaft and closet, allowing water to flow through without causing damage during flooding events.
Living in a community with shared amenities can also reduce individual maintenance burdens. "One of the things we love about this home is the community pool," Hakes shares. "It's maintained by the HOA, so we don’t have to worry about the hassle of personal pool upkeep, especially during storms." The neighborhood also offers a community dock and a boardwalk, providing recreational opportunities without the maintenance headaches often associated with beachfront properties.
283 Berry Tree Drive represents a new era in beach construction, where resilience and ease of maintenance are prioritized alongside aesthetic appeal. As climate change continues to influence weather patterns, the demand for homes that can withstand severe conditions while requiring minimal upkeep is expected to grow.
For Sean Hakes and his family, the move from Colorado to this innovative beachfront home has been a testament to the importance of smart, durable construction. "We wanted a home that could handle anything Mother Nature throws at it, and with Bryan Maldonado's help, we created exactly that. It’s a new standard in beach living, and we couldn’t be happier."
Now, due to work relocation, the Hakes family has listed 283 Berry Tree Drive for sale. The home is a rare opportunity for prospective buyers looking for a property that combines beauty, durability, and minimal maintenance. Hakes emphasizes the importance of hiring a real estate agent who understands not only the aesthetics but also the structural integrity and history of such a home. "It's crucial to have someone who can appreciate the detailed craftsmanship and the thought that went into building a home like this," he notes.
With the introduction of homes like 283 Berry Tree Drive, the future of coastal living looks brighter and more secure than ever before. As these innovative construction techniques become more widespread, homeowners along the coast can look forward to enjoying the beauty of their surroundings with greater peace of mind.
To schedule a showing please call Sumer Celaya 949-290-5491 of Murrells Inlet Realty.