Build Your Dream Home in Belleair Beach and Shores
Belleair Beach and Belleair Shores are two stunning coastal communities in Pinellas County, Florida. Known for their serene ambiance, pristine beaches, and breathtaking Gulf views, these areas offer an idyllic setting for those seeking to build a custom home tailored to their lifestyle.
Why Choose Belleair Beach and Shores?
Nestled along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Belleair Beach and Shores are celebrated for their peaceful charm and proximity to popular attractions. Residents enjoy miles of uncrowded, sparkling beaches ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and shell collecting. The area’s close-knit community and upscale amenities make it perfect for families, retirees, and anyone looking for a tranquil coastal retreat.
Just minutes away, you’ll find vibrant dining, shopping, and cultural activities in nearby Clearwater and St. Petersburg. The location also provides easy access to world-class golf courses, marinas, and nature parks, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Key Considerations for a Coastal Home
When evaluating a site for your custom coastal home, there are some key factors to consider to make sure you’re choosing the perfect spot for your dream home.
Understanding Flood Zones
Coastal Zones Explained
- AE Zone: The AE zone is typically found in areas that are subject to flooding during a 100-year flood event, which has a 1% chance of occurring in any given year. Buildings in this zone are required to have their lowest floor elevated to at least one foot above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). This helps minimize flood damage while ensuring compliance with local building codes and insurance requirements. Sometimes flood compensation requirements are involved so a civil engineer should be consulted to determine the feasibility of these requirements.
- V Zone: The V zone, or Velocity zone, is located in areas where wave action can cause significant flooding and erosion during storms. Structures in this zone must be elevated to a height that is at least one foot above the BFE, and they must be supported by pilings, columns, oversized footers, and breakaway walls. This design is crucial to withstand the forces of moving water and reduce the risk of structural damage.
- Coastal A Zone: The Coastal A zone is an intermediate area between the AE and V zones, where wave action is less severe but still poses a flood risk. Structures in this zone are also required to be elevated above the BFE, though the exact height requirements can vary based on local regulations. The building requirements for Coastal A zones are very similar to those required in VE zones.
- Conclusion: Understanding these zones is essential for coastal home building. At Covenant Homes, we are committed to guiding our clients through the complexities of coastal construction to ensure that their homes are safe, resilient, and tailored to their needs.
Soil Composition
Water-adjacent properties often have varying soil compositions, such as sand, silt, clay, and organic material, which can significantly impact the stability and suitability for construction. A geotechnical report provides a detailed analysis of the soil composition. This report is required when the property is in a coastal flood zone as it has an effect on the design and cost to build.
Environmental Considerations
Assess any environmental restrictions or protected areas, such as wetlands, that may impact construction.
Custom Foundation Solutions
Building near or on the water may require specialized foundation techniques like pilings, piers, or deep foundations. The geotechnical report provides essential data to design these foundations correctly.
See the coastal home builder page for all of the details. Browse through our gallery of custom coastal homes to see the homes our design team has built.
View Our Floor Plans
Build Your Custom Home in Belleair Beach or Shores
Building a custom home in Belleair Beach or Shores means more than just owning property — it’s about creating a lifestyle. A trusted custom home builder can help you design a home that complements the area’s coastal beauty while meeting your unique needs. Whether you envision a modern, energy-efficient beachside retreat or a classic coastal craftsman, the possibilities are endless.
Experience the perfect blend of luxury, tranquility, and coastal living in Belleair Beach and Shores. Start your journey today by working with an experienced custom home builder to turn your dream into reality.