The Stakes Are Higher On The Coast
Building in coastal Florida isn’t just about location. It’s about preparation. The 30A area is known for beauty, but it also brings heat, humidity, salt air, high winds, termites, and flood risk into every construction decision.
At GF30A, we understand how these elements impact a home long after the ribbon is cut. That’s why we build differently. Smarter. Stronger. We call it building beyond code—a commitment to quality that exceeds minimum requirements and focuses on what truly works in coastal environments.
WHAT IT MEANS TO BUILD BEYOND CODE
For us, code is a starting point, not a goal. Our clients expect more, and we believe they should. Building beyond code means we plan ahead. We consider every possible stress point, from moisture control to pest prevention, and address them using proven materials and best-in-class methods.
We invest in smarter insulation. Better drainage. Advanced thermal and air barriers. Because each decision we make, right from the foundation, adds up to a structure built for long-term durability, comfort, and performance.
As Tony Graham puts it:
“We don’t wait for problems to show up.
We design them out of the plan.”
A FEW EXTRA STEPS THAT GO A LONG WAY:
These aren’t upgrades. This is how we build every custom home on 30A.
TERMITE PROTECTION WITH TERMIMESH
Bugs hate this barrier. [Watch on Instagram]
Chemical treatments wear off. Termimesh is a permanent stainless-steel barrier installed at slab penetrations. It’s a built-in defense that keeps termites out—no reapplications, no compromise.
CAPILLARY BREAK ON FOOTING
Keep the sponge out of the structure. ▶ [Watch on Instagram]
Concrete can soak up water, this layer prevents moisture from creeping up. Not required by Florida building code, but critical in coastal climates. We install it every time.
PILING FOUNDATIONS
Above it all: And that’s the point. ▶ [Watch on Instagram]
Flood zones require a different strategy. We use pilings to raise homes and create additional space below, improving ventilation, reducing pest concerns, and protecting your investment.
SLAB PERIMETER INSULATION
Cold floors? Be gone. ▶ [Watch on Instagram]
A key part of energy-efficient home design. It stops thermal bridging at the slab, reducing heat loss and improving comfort, especially during colder months.
FOAMGLAS FOR BELOW-GRADE PROTECTION
Below-grade. Above expectations. ▶ [Watch on Instagram]
Fireproof, pest-proof, waterproof, and built to last. We use Foamglas insulation below grade to protect where others often cut corners.
BUILDING SCIENCE IN ACTION: HEAT, AIR & MOISTURE
The building science trifecta. ▶ [Watch on Instagram]
Control these three elements, and you control a home’s performance. Tony’s designs manage moisture from the start, reducing mold risk and improving indoor air quality.
SILL PLATE PROTECTION
Simple detail. big payoff. ▶ [Watch on Instagram]
It’s easy to overlook, but critical for durability. We protect the base of every wall with a moisture barrier to extend the life of your framing.
THOUGHTFUL DRAINAGE PLANNING
Rain, meet your match. ▶ [Watch on Instagram]
Coastal construction requires proactive water management. We design drainage systems to direct water away from the home, preventing hidden damage and costly repairs.
BETTER CORNERS, SMARTER FRAMING
Corners that actually work. ▶ [Watch on Instagram]
We frame for insulation and future flexibility. That means better thermal performance, less material waste, and easier access for electricians and HVAC teams.
HIGH-EFFICIENCY HVAC WITH MOISTURE CONTROL
Climate control that actually works. ▶ [Watch on Instagram]
Florida homes need more than just cold air. We install HVAC systems designed to handle humidity, cut energy costs, and keep interiors consistently comfortable.
FRAMEWORK SAFEGUARDS
Framing that fights back. ▶ [Watch on Instagram]
Wood warps when exposed to moisture early. We apply safeguards during the framing stage that protect the structure and help it last for decades.
IT ALL ADDS UP
Each of these choices—on its own—might seem minor. Together, they create a durable, efficient, and resilient home built specifically for the 30A environment. This is the compound effect of quality. This is why every detail matters.
GF30A homes require less maintenance, perform better in extreme weather, and provide long-term value for both homeowners and investors. Because we don’t just build to pass inspection. We build for the life of the home.
READY TO BUILD SMARTER ON 30A?
Let’s talk about your next custom home or renovation. We’d love to show you what building beyond code really looks like.
📩 Contact Kris at kris@gf30a.com
📞 Or call us at (850) 220-1850
GF30A Custom Home Builders
Premium coastal construction. Built smarter from the ground up.
