7 Things Your Lake House Needs That a Normal House Doesn’t

Building or remodeling a home on the water is exciting, but it is not the same as building in a typical neighborhood. Lakefront properties in Wisconsin have special rules, higher moisture exposure, and unique lifestyle needs. As a lake house builder in wisconsin, Elite Improvements understands how to design and build for your shoreline, your dock, your views, and your everyday life. Below is a practical guide to seven must-have features for a lake home, plus planning tips that keep your project on schedule and compliant with Wisconsin regulations.

Why Lake Homes Are Different

Lakeside living comes with more wind, more humidity, more sun reflection off the water, and often a higher water table. Foot traffic is also different. Your family and guests will track in water, sand, and gear. On top of that, you need durable materials that stand up to freeze-thaw cycles and water spray. Whether you are on Brown’s Lake, Tichigan, Delavan, Pewaukee, Geneva, or a quiet inland lake, your home should be built with the shoreline in mind. Elite Improvements is a family-owned contractor in Burlington that plans for these challenges from the start. Our team designs for views, storage, weather, and code compliance, then builds with materials that last.

1. Moisture-Smart Construction From the Ground Up

By the water, you must expect humidity and wet conditions. That means choosing assemblies and finishes that manage moisture rather than absorb it. The goal is to prevent mold, keep insulation dry, and protect your structure year-round.

• Closed-cell spray foam or properly detailed rigid foam in key areas to reduce vapor drive and add rigidity.
• Paperless, mold-resistant drywall in basements, bathrooms, and lakeside rooms.
• PVC or composite trim, fiber cement or engineered wood siding with a ventilated rainscreen gap so walls can dry.
• Stainless steel or hot-dip galvanized fasteners and hangers to resist corrosion.
• Full-coverage ice and water shield at roof eaves and valleys for freeze-thaw protection.
• Premium sealants and gaskets around windows and doors to block wind-driven rain.
• A whole-home dehumidifier and quiet bath fans on timers to control indoor humidity.

Elite Improvements sources moisture-ready materials that fit your budget and your style. As a seasoned lake house builder in wisconsin, we balance performance and curb appeal so you get a home that looks great and stays healthy.

2. Foundation, Grading, and Drainage Engineered for Shorelines

Water follows gravity. A lake home needs a foundation and site plan that direct water away from your structure and prevent erosion at the shore. This is where good engineering pays off.

• Drain tile around the foundation tied to a sump with battery backup.
• Free-draining backfill, capillary breaks under slabs, and high-performance vapor barriers.
• Thoughtful grading with swales to move runoff toward rain gardens or infiltration areas.
• Permeable pavers for driveways and walkways to manage stormwater and meet impervious surface rules.
• Shoreline stabilization and erosion control that align with Wisconsin DNR guidelines.
• Splash blocks, downspout extensions, and gutters sized for lake-effect storms.

Elite Improvements coordinates with surveyors and, when needed, civil engineers to build a sound site strategy. We also factor in frost depth and high water table concerns common around Southeast Wisconsin lakes.

3. Durable, Low-Maintenance Exterior Materials Built for Lakeside Weather

Sun reflecting off the water and wind off the lake can age outdoor surfaces quickly. Choose exterior finishes that hold their color and shape, even in harsh conditions. Your weekends are better spent on the water than on a ladder with a paintbrush.

• Fiber cement or engineered wood siding with factory finishes that resist peeling and fading.
• Composite decking and aluminum or composite railings that handle splash, sun, and foot traffic.
• Impact-rated shingles or standing seam metal roofing for wind resistance and long life.
• Wider roof overhangs, covered porches, and deep fascia to shield walls and windows.
• Gutters with guards to keep leaves out and reduce maintenance.
• Corrosion-resistant lighting fixtures, house numbers, and door hardware.

As a trusted lake house builder in wisconsin, Elite Improvements helps you compare cost, warranty, and appearance so you get the right mix of toughness and style.

4. Windows, Doors, and Views That Work With Water and Wind

Views are the star of any lake house, but you still need performance, comfort, and safety. Focus on glass, hardware, and layout that stands up to wind and keeps energy bills in check.

• High-performance low-E glass with warm-edge spacers to reduce glare and heat gain while protecting furnishings from UV.
• Laminated or tempered glass in large windows and doors for safety and added noise reduction.
• Corrosion-resistant hinges and multi-point locks on patio doors for a tight seal.
• Sliding or folding door systems that open wide on calm days and seal tight when storms roll in.
• Operable windows placed for cross ventilation to pull fresh air from the lake side to the road side.
• Screened porches or three-season rooms with 4-track windows to extend the shoulder seasons.

Elite Improvements designs window walls to capture your best sight lines, then specifies frames and finishes that handle lakeside humidity. We align mullions and railings so nothing interrupts your view from the kitchen sink or favorite chair.

5. Smart Indoor-Outdoor Living Zones for Wet Gear and Lake Life

Without the right layout, wet towels and sandy shoes can take over your home. Plan spaces that make it easy to come and go without a mess. Durable finishes and smart storage will save you time every day.

• A mudroom by the lakeside entry with washable wall panels, a floor drain, and slip-resistant tile or luxury vinyl plank.
• Built-in benches, hooks, and ventilated cubbies for life jackets, paddles, and waders.
• A stacked washer and dryer or laundry zone near the lake entry to handle towels on the spot.
• An outdoor shower or rinse station with hot and cold water to clean off sand and sunscreen.
• A small lakeside powder room so guests do not track through the house.
• Dedicated storage for fishing gear and seasonal items, plus an outlet for charging trolling motors.

As a family-owned contractor, Elite Improvements thinks about everyday moments like unloading coolers, rinsing off, and hanging towels. Our remodeling and additions team can add mudrooms, a lakeside bath, or a sunroom that ties it all together.

6. Safe, Slip-Resistant Decks, Docks, and Shoreline Access

Lake houses need outdoor areas that feel good underfoot and function all day. Safety, lighting, and storage are just as important as style. Good design keeps family and guests comfortable from sunrise coffee to late-night campfires.

• Composite decking with traction and cool-touch options for barefoot comfort.
• Integrated step lighting, path lighting, and low-glare fixtures for safe movement after dark.
• Handrails and guardrails placed to protect views while meeting code.
• Sturdy, non-corrosive fasteners and hidden clips that stand up to splash zones.
• A secure route to the dock with stable steps, landings, and erosion control.
• Power and water at the deck edge for cleaning gear and powering a lift, installed to code with GFCI protection.

Elite Improvements builds custom decks and stairs that fit the natural grade and your shoreline plan. Our exterior improvements team selects materials that match your home and your maintenance goals.

7. Systems That Protect Comfort and Water Quality

Behind the walls, lake homes need a few extra systems for comfort and protection. Think ahead about air quality, freeze protection, and clean water.

• A right-sized HVAC system with zoning for lakeside rooms and a whole-home dehumidifier for summer humidity.
• An energy recovery ventilator for steady fresh air without big energy losses.
• Smart leak detectors near water heaters, laundry, and under sinks, plus a main shutoff you can control from your phone.
• Insulated pipes at exterior walls and heat tape in vulnerable spots to prevent winter freezes.
• Water treatment for well water if present, including iron, hardness, or sediment filtration.
• A backup power plan for sump pumps, refrigerators, and essential circuits to protect during storms.

As an experienced lake house builder in wisconsin, Elite Improvements specifies dependable products and clean installations that serve you for years. We plan mechanical spaces with service access and keep noisy equipment away from quiet rooms.

Permits, Setbacks, and Shoreland Rules in Wisconsin

Building by the water adds extra layers of approvals. Each county has shoreland zoning that limits how close you can build to the water and how much of your lot can be impervious. You may also need Wisconsin DNR or local approvals for shoreline work, docks, lifts, or erosion control. Planning early saves time and stress.

• Confirm your ordinary high water mark, floodplain, and wetlands with current surveys and maps.
• Review county shoreland zoning for setbacks, height limits, and impervious surface caps.
• Ask about mitigation options such as native plant buffers to allow reasonable updates.
• Document existing nonconforming structures and discuss improvement allowances.
• Coordinate dock and lift plans with local requirements before ordering equipment.
• Phase work around seasonal restrictions to protect fish spawning or water quality if required.

Elite Improvements helps clients navigate these steps by working with local officials and trusted design partners. Our team sequences permits and inspections to keep your project moving and your shoreline protected.

Remodeling vs. Adding On: Choosing the Right Path

Your lake property may already have a cabin or older home. Deciding whether to remodel, add space, or start fresh depends on structure, zoning, and your budget. We help you weigh the options.

• Remodeling to open up views with new windows, remove interior walls, or refresh kitchens and baths.
• Bump-outs or additions to create a lakeside primary suite, sunroom, or expanded living room.
• Basement or lower-level renovations for guest space, rec rooms, and lake-access bathrooms.
• Exterior upgrades like new siding, roofing, and decks that add value and reduce maintenance.

Elite Improvements offers kitchen, bathroom, basement, master suite, and living room remodels, as well as bathroom, bedroom, kitchen, home office, and sunroom additions. Our team blends new work with existing structures so everything feels cohesive and durable.

Work With a Lake House Builder in Wisconsin Who Knows the Shoreline

Choosing the right partner makes a big difference in your timeline, budget, and final results. As a lake house builder in wisconsin, Elite Improvements brings local expertise, detailed planning, and clear communication to every project.

• Design guidance that protects views, adds storage, and places doors and windows for real-life use.
• Material recommendations that balance performance, appearance, and long-term value.
• Clean, courteous crews who respect your property, neighbors, and the lake.
• Accreditation with the BBB and Milwaukee NARI, reflecting our commitment to ethics and quality.
• Family-owned service with a focus on craftsmanship and customer satisfaction.

We stand behind our work and keep you informed from the first visit to the final walk-through. If you need a remodeling specialist who understands lakeside living and Wisconsin rules, our team is ready to help.

A Simple Planning Checklist for Your Lake Home Project

1. Define your must-haves: sleeping spaces, storage, and indoor-outdoor flow.
2. List your daily lake routines to guide layout and mudroom needs.
3. Capture your top three views and the times of day you use them most.
4. Set a maintenance comfort level to choose the right exterior materials.
5. Gather surveys, past permits, and any shoreline documents.
6. Meet with a lake-savvy contractor to review zoning and feasibility.
7. Decide whether to remodel, add on, or rebuild based on structure and budget.
8. Plan for mechanical upgrades like dehumidification, ventilation, and backup power.
9. Sequence dock, deck, and landscaping with house construction for a smooth finish.
10. Set a realistic timeline that considers seasonal access and permit lead times.

Why Homeowners Choose Elite Improvements

Based in Burlington and serving southeast Wisconsin, Elite Improvements focuses on smart design, quality craftsmanship, and responsive service. We are known for:

• Remodeling expertise: kitchens, bathrooms, basements, master suites, and living rooms with new flooring, cabinetry, fixtures, and layouts.
• Thoughtful additions: bathrooms, bedrooms, kitchens, home offices, and sunrooms that feel original to the home.
• Exterior improvements: roofing, siding replacement, and custom decks that stand up to lakeside weather.
• Clear communication: regular updates and a single point of contact from start to finish.
• Ethical practices: BBB accredited and Milwaukee NARI member, with many repeat clients and referrals.

We combine design advice with precise installation, whether you need a lakeside mudroom and bath, a larger deck, a view-maximizing living room remodel, or a full addition. Our team cares about the details and your long-term satisfaction.

Ready to Build Your Best Days by the Water?

Lake homes are special. When you invest in moisture-smart construction, durable materials, smart storage, and safe outdoor spaces, your home becomes easier to care for and more fun to use. If you are searching for a lake house builder in wisconsin who understands shoreline rules, seasonal weather, and the way families use lake spaces, talk with Elite Improvements. We will listen to your goals, evaluate your site, and deliver solutions that fit your budget and your timeline.