The Top Exterior Coastal Building Materials That Can Withstand Salt Water

As a homeowner in coastal climates such as the Pacific Northwest, it is crucial to consider the unique environmental factors and weather conditions that your property may face, including heavy wind, rain, and saltwater exposure. Therefore, it is essential to research the cost and maintenance requirements of any building material you add to your home before committing to it.

To help you make an informed decision, we have analyzed and compared the performance of 4 popular building materials in coastal environments. Our professional assessment takes into account the impact of saltwater and high wind conditions on each material.

Watch this video by Pete Baughman to understand the important points in this article:

1. Wood

Throughout history, wood has proven to be a reliable choice for exterior material, especially in coastal climates. Thanks to modern technology, excellent corrosion-protection coatings are now available to shield wood from harsh weather conditions. Additionally, consumers have a plethora of wood options to choose from, making it easier to find the right fit for their needs.

What Makes Wood a Good Option

• Wood can be used for siding, decking, trim, roofing, windows, and doors. 

• There are many examples of century-old homes with wood-clad exteriors that still perform well today. 

• Generally speaking, the harder and denser the wood is, the more durable and higher performance it is. Some woods, like cedar, ipe, mahogany, and teak, have naturally occurring rot-resisting properties.

• Wood is a versatile material to work with, given its widespread use and the availability of specialized tools for shaping and cutting. Its abundance and accessibility make it one of the most straightforward materials to work with.

Considerations When Choosing Wood

• To safeguard the wood from outdoor conditions, it is necessary to apply a coating or paint. Examples of coatings include paint, stains, and clear coatings. If the protective layer is well-maintained, it can last indefinitely. However, if the layer is neglected, it can lead to water damage, rot, mold, mildew, and other issues.

• Wood can attract termites and other pests, making protection and maintenance important.

• Depending on the species of wood, it can also be a more expensive material choice for homeowners.

 2. Plastics & Composites

Plastics can be a viable alternative to traditional materials, though they can be more expensive and are not available for every application. Common exterior plastics include PVC, vinyl, HDPE, acrylic, and polycarbonate. These materials and composites are often used for siding, decking, trim, roofing, windows, and doors.

In coastal environments, plastics and composites can offer longer lifespans with less maintenance. If wood exteriors are not properly maintained, these alternatives often hold up better against moisture, salt air, and weather exposure.

Benefits of Plastics & Composites

• Plastics and composites don’t degrade when exposed to water and salt. Plus, it is not susceptible to mold and fungal growth.

• Plastic and composite materials require less maintenance, but they still need to be painted to protect against UV damage.

• Some composite materials are less expensive than full plastic. The composite material is usually lower-cost, reducing the overall cost of the material.

• Plastics and composites resemble wood in their form and fit. This means that most woodworking tools can be used with composite, making the job easier.

Potential Drawbacks of Using Plastics & Composites

• If exposed to UV for long periods, plastics become brittle and oxidize (change colors).
• Plastic composites expand and contract more than wood, so that must be considered when used.
• Plastics absorb heat: on horizontal surfaces, they can get uncomfortably hot to the touch. So, having a dark-colored composite deck in warmer climates may not be the best option.

3. Cement Board

Cement board is a good product, but it still needs paint to perform well. Cement board is mainly used for siding and trim.

Advantages of Cement Board

• Cement board is a mold and fungus-resistant material.

• Saltwater has less impact on cement board when it is painted regularly.

• Cement board performs similarly to wood building products under extreme wind conditions.

Disadvantages to Using Cement Board

• UV rays will break down the composite structure of cement board, so if you don’t keep paint on it, it will deteriorate just as fast as wood without paint.

• Some cement board brands can be more expensive than other material options.

4. Metal

Common metal building materials are steel, stainless steel, galvanized steel, aluminum, and copper. These types of materials are commonly used for siding, roofing, fascia, trim, windows, and doors.

Benefits of Choosing Metal

• Commonly used for aesthetic purposes or its strength in areas affected by saltwater. 

• Metal is generally considered low-maintenance, as long as you’re okay with the oxidized look.

• This building material is eco-friendly because metal is recyclable, and steel production is relatively low-energy.

• In addition to stainless steel, metals can be coated or painted for further protection. 

• You can choose specific types of metal that naturally oxidize or develop a rusted patina over time. This oxidation actually creates a protective barrier that helps prevent further corrosion. 

• In coastal areas where salt is present in the air, metal tends to oxidize more quickly. Using a thicker-gauge metal helps address this and improves long-term durability.

 Potential Downsides of Metal 

• All metals are negatively impacted by salt, and oxidation happens faster.

• Metals require specialized tools and skills to properly form and manipulate them, increasing installation and labor costs. As an example, many metals need to be welded together.

Coastal Building Materials Are Unique

If selecting your material is heavily based on your budget, it’s important to remember that market demand determines each material's cost and which ones are more expensive than others. It’s also crucial to note that none of these materials will withstand repeated direct contact with saltwater, but they can work well if maintained in coastal areas where moisture and salt are prevalent. 

The best material fit for your home will depend on budget, style, and climate. You should always consult with your trusted contractor when making material selections. If you’re interested in learning more about the home maintenance required, download our eBook, “Redefining Home Maintenance: The Proactive & Essential Guide for Homeowners.”