Building on the Coast: What Most People Get Wrong or Just Don't Know

Featuring Jackie Rowland & Adam Russell of Russell Rowland Engineers

Building a custom home on the coast is about much more than choosing the perfect lot and designing a beautiful floor plan. In this episode of The Punch List Podcast, hosts Matt, Jen, and Ian MacDonald sit down with Jackie Rowland and Adam Russell of Russell Rowland Engineers to discuss what homeowners, builders, and even some industry professionals often don't know about coastal construction.

From foundation design and elevated construction to hurricane wind loads, flood zones, and resilience planning, Jackie and Adam break down the engineering realities that shape successful coastal homes. The conversation explores how experienced coastal builders approach projects differently, why engineers should be involved early in the design process, and how collaboration among the homeowner, architect, builder, and engineer can prevent costly surprises down the road.

The group also tackles common misconceptions about building near the water, balancing aesthetics with durability and budget, and how smart engineering decisions can impact long-term performance, maintenance, and even insurance costs.

Whether you're planning your dream waterfront home, working in the construction industry, or just curious about what goes into building along the coast, this episode offers practical insights and expert advice from professionals who do it every day.

In This Episode:

• The biggest misconceptions about coastal construction
• Why foundation design matters more near the water
• Elevated homes, flood zones, and storm surge considerations
• How wind loads influence engineering and design decisions
• Common mistakes that affect hurricane resistance
• The value of involving engineers early in the process
• How collaboration leads to better outcomes and fewer surprises
• Expert advice for anyone considering a coastal custom home

Listen now and learn what most people get wrong before they ever break ground on the coast.