White Rock is known for its scenic ocean views, relaxed pace of life and charming older homes full of potential. But as beautiful as coastal living can be, renovating an older home near the water comes with its own unique challenges and opportunities. Whether you’re updating a family cottage or transforming a mid-century gem, here are some key tips to help you navigate a successful renovation in White Rock.
1. Start with a Thorough Inspection
Older homes near the ocean often hide issues that aren’t immediately visible. Salt air and coastal moisture can take a toll on exterior materials, structural elements and mechanical systems over time. Before beginning any renovation, it’s crucial to invest in a comprehensive inspection. At Alair, we can look for signs of water damage, outdated electrical or plumbing, and insulation that may not meet modern energy standards. We find out what we’re working with can save you time, money and surprises down the road.
2. Address Moisture and Ventilation Early
Proximity to the ocean means that moisture is a constant factor in the health and longevity of your home. When renovating, we ensure your plans include updated waterproofing, proper ventilation systems and materials that resist mold and corrosion. Upgrading windows and doors to coastal-grade products can help maintain comfortable humidity levels indoors and protect your investment for years to come.
3. Preserve the Character & Upgrade the Function
Many homes in White Rock have charming architectural details that are worth preserving, from original wood trim to unique rooflines. A thoughtful renovation doesn’t have to mean starting from scratch. By blending old and new—such as restoring hardwood floors while upgrading the kitchen and bathrooms, we work with you to retain your home’s character while creating a space that supports modern living.
4. Think Long-Term with Materials
Given the wear and tear that coastal weather can cause, it’s smart to invest in durable, low-maintenance materials. Fibre cement siding, stainless steel fixtures, composite decking and stone countertops are just a few examples of finishes that hold up well in salty air and humid conditions. These choices may cost more upfront but will pay off in durability and fewer repairs over time.
5. Respect Zoning and View Guidelines
White Rock’s hillside geography and breathtaking views are part of what makes it such a desirable place to live, but that also means local zoning regulations can be strict. Height restrictions, view corridors and heritage considerations may influence what changes you can make to an existing home. After years of experience, we are well-versed in the local bylaws and permitting processes so we know how to stay compliant while maximizing your design vision.
6. Plan for Modern Comforts
Renovating an older home is the perfect opportunity to improve energy efficiency and incorporate smart home technology. Consider adding radiant heating, solar-prep infrastructure or EV charging to bring your home into the future without losing its charm.
Ready to Renovate?
At Alair White Rock, we’ve helped countless homeowners transform aging coastal properties into stunning, functional spaces built to last. If you’re considering a renovation near the water, let’s talk – we’d love to help bring your vision to life.