Resources

The Learning Hub: Your Guide to Coastal Building

A well-informed homeowner is a confident homeowner. On the Monterey Peninsula, the environment is as demanding as it is beautiful. Building here requires more than just a dream; it requires an understanding of the forces that shape our landscape and our homes.

We created the Learning Hub to serve as your resource for all things construction. Whether you are curious about the technical science of waterproofing or the logistical maze of local permits, our goal is to empower you with the knowledge you need to protect your legacy.

Empowering the Hero of the Story

Most homeowners start their journey with a vision but are quickly met by a “villain” in the form of uncertainty. You may feel overwhelmed by the complexities of coastal regulations or worried about the “hidden damage” that salt air can cause. You might fear that a lack of technical knowledge will leave you vulnerable to a builder who cuts corners.

At Skyview Builders, we believe our role as your guide is to remove that uncertainty. We use this space to share nearly 20 years of professional know-how. We want you to understand the “why” behind high-performance building so you can make decisions that prioritize longevity and peace of mind.

Your Path to Construction Mastery

The construction process doesn’t have to be a mystery. We believe in a clear, educational approach that helps you navigate the build from start to finish.

  1. Understand the Environment: Learn how the Pacific affects your materials and structural integrity.
  2. Vet the Process: Discover how radical transparency and site discipline change the building experience.
  3. Plan for the Future: Get tips on maintaining your home to ensure it remains a sanctuary for generations.

Explore Our Featured Insights

We focus on the topics that matter most to property owners in Carmel, Pebble Beach, and Monterey

The Science of Coastal Durability

Living near the ocean means your home is in a constant battle with moisture and salt. We explore the industry-best practices for building envelopes, from fluid-applied membranes to marine-grade hardware. Learn why "standard" construction isn't enough for the Monterey coast.

Foundations and Seismic Safety

The ground beneath our feet is always shifting. We dive deep into the world of foundation raising and structural retrofitting. Discover the signs of foundation decay caused by historic "beach sand" concrete and how modern engineering can save a historic property.

Navigating Local Permits and Water Credits

In Monterey County, the "red tape" can be as thick as the morning fog. We provide guides on working with the California Coastal Commission and understanding the water credit economy of the peninsula. We help you plan so you don't get stuck in permit purgatory.

Financial Transparency in Construction

Construction should never be a "bait-and-switch" game. We explain how we use JobTread to provide a "No Surprises" experience. Learn how to audit a bid and why the lowest price often leads to the most expensive mistakes.

No Surprises

Our educational content is rooted in the same transparency we bring to our job sites. We believe in transparent pricing that are easy to understand and based on real-world data. By educating our clients, we ensure there are no surprises during the build.

We don’t hide the “messy” parts of construction. We show you what a disciplined site looks like and why it matters. Our commitment to your education is an extension of our owner-operated values. We want you to be as proud of the process as you are of the finished home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Salt is hygroscopic, meaning it pulls moisture from the air and holds it against your home. This accelerates rot in wood and causes standard metal fasteners to rust. We use 316-grade stainless steel to prevent this.

Check the job site. A messy site often hides sloppy work. Also, ask for a detailed waterproofing plan. If they are using standard "house wrap" and staples instead of a seamless membrane, they may be taking a shortcut.

A high-performance home is designed to be exceptionally energy-efficient, quiet, and durable. It utilizes an airtight building envelope and advanced mechanical systems to provide a superior living environment.

The local water district assigns "points" to every fixture. If you want to add a bathroom, you need enough points. We can help you find "water savings" in other parts of the house to make your new design possible.

Look for cracks in the stucco, doors that no longer latch, or sloping floors. In older homes on the peninsula, these are often signs that the concrete is "spalling" or settling into the sandy soil.

Knowledge is the First Step

Are you ready to dive deeper into your project? Our team is here to answer your specific questions and help you plan your coastal sanctuary.