How to Build a Coastal Home and Why Modular is a Better Choice

Richard Wildermuth, president of Connecticut Valley Homes, was asked recently what the two most important considerations are when building a coastal home.   

After 35 years building along the shore, he was quickly able to offer advice to those considering making a move to the shore. “Building a home in a shoreline community or directly on the water, is a dream that can come true with assistance from an experienced builder familiar with typical coastal considerations like:

• Flood Zones (AE, X, and V Zones for example)
• Wind Zones
• Building on piers
• Small or difficult building sites
• Tearing down an existing house and re-building new

Not only is it important to select an experienced builder who is familiar with complex building codes to construct your new coastal home, it is equally important to consider the way your new home will be built. Many people don’t realize that modular construction is inherently stronger than traditional site-built homes. FEMA documentation after Hurricane Andrew concluded that module-to-module construction provides an inherently rigid system and performed much better than conventional residential framing.  Modular homes like those constructed by Connecticut Valley Homes are not only beautiful but are better able to stand up to the unpredictable weather events experienced when living on the coast.”

The modular homes of today are no longer cookie cutter.  

The coastal homes below show just some of the features and design styles available.  Richard Wildermuth adds, “If you don’t see what you want, just call to see examples of some of the other over 1550 homes we have built.”

The Short Beach has 4 bedrooms, 2 ½ baths and can be built on piers or a foundation.  The spacious, open floor plan features a dramatic kitchen with island open to the dining and living room. The large sliding glass doors open to the outdoor living spaces and bring in lots of natural light.

The Summer Place has room for everyone with 4 bedrooms and 3 baths. The design includes an open concept living/dining/kitchen area, plus a first-floor bedroom/den.

The Bayside I has 1200 square feet, 3 bedrooms, and 2 full bathrooms all on one floor. The open concept living room, dining room, and kitchen give a spacious feel.


For over 35 years, property owners along the Connecticut and Rhode Island coasts, in addition to Block Island and Fishers Island, have come to the experts at Connecticut Valley Homes to build their new coastal home.  Their experienced design/build team is up to the challenge of designing a new home that meets or exceeds your expectations.  For photos, floor plans and additional information go to www.ctvalleyhomes.com.