Category: Construction

Can a House Be Built During Winter?

Most people think that building a home during the winter is an impossible task due to the poor weather conditions experienced during such months. Homebuilders believed that if you cannot get the roof up before the first snowfall, the only alternative is to wait until the end of winter. But, that is not the case anymore. Professional builders say that home construction is possible in winter and could offer significant benefits to both the contractors and homeowners. 

In case you are wondering, the following are some of the unique benefits of undertaking home construction projects during winter. 

Quick Home Construction 

One of the merits of building a house during the winter months is that you can have the home ready sooner than expected. Since only a handful of people are applying for work permits during the cold months, you will receive faster approvals. Besides, you will also have a larger pool of home builders and contractors to choose from, making sure that the project runs faster than the normal times. 

Today, there are home construction contractors that specialize in working on some of the most frigid weather conditions. They have the right tools and gear to make sure that the conditions of the ground do not affect your project. 

Rock-Solid Home Foundations 

Concrete is among the most versatile construction materials used in building foundations during winter. While pouring concrete may take a longer time to dry in winter, it often results in very strong and lasting foundations. 

Although some usually think that home construction can be costly in winter, it is not entirely true. Many professional homebuilders will keep their prices almost the same with just little extras. If you choose to build your home in winter, the most important thing is to find the right home builder and create a comprehensive plan that will cater for any miscellaneous. Overall, it is possible to build a home in winter. 

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7 Common Mistakes to Avoid During House Construction

Renovating or constructing a home is a huge task that requires correct decision making and proper planning. As the homeowner, you must understand that any mistake you make or wrong decision you take is irreversible. Whether you’re experienced in construction or this is your first project, careful planning is required since there are lots of decisions to be made before you can realize your home ownership dream. Here are some of the mistakes you want to avoid when building a new home. 

Cutting Corners on Budget

It’s not uncommon for people undertaking new construction or home renovation projects to go for poor quality materials at a lesser cost so they can save money. Cutting corners on budget will always result in a disaster. You have to adequately plan for your budget. The cheapest bid doesn’t always mean the best offer. From the contractor you hire to the materials you use, never compromise on quality. 

Acting as your own General Contractor

Why would you choose not to take professional assistance for your huge investment? Not only will a general contractor supervise the subcontractors and ensure proper communication but also make sure every aspect of your project is handled correctly, within your budget and on schedule. There’s no better way to ensure the success of your construction project than to work with an experienced general contractor. 

Not considering the needs of your Family

You prefer having a custom-built home? That’s great. You can now have the home of your dreams. However, you must take into account how your family will evolve in the future. If you’re a young couple you might want to consider how big your family will be in the years to come. Don’t just look at the present. Carefully consider the needs of your family for the future. 

Working with the Wrong General Contractor

The fact that you’re not supposed to be your own builder doesn’t mean you can just get anyone claiming to be a builder to work on your project. Take some time to research, ask for recommendations, and evaluate several general contractors so you can find the right company to work with. Find an experienced contractor you can communicate with and one who’s committed to transforming your ideas into a reality. 

Taking a Laid Back Approach

Why would you choose to be passive with one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make in your lifetime? You should be present and be involved throughout the decision making process of your project. Make sure you’ve read and understood the contract before signing it. Hire a company that’s licensed and insured. Don’t shy away from asking for the contractor’s insurance policy. 

Not being Prepare for Unforeseen Additional Costs

You might have a carefully planned out budget but that doesn’t mean you won’t encounter unforeseen costs. Unforeseen problems such as bad soil, termite damage and dry rot can result in additional costs. Plan for such and be prepared to resolve such issues when they arise. 

Compromising on Location

If you’re looking for a family friendly location to build your dream home, you might want to avoid busy streets and stores. Other important factors to consider include the water table, terrain, and slope. Don’t just focus on the size and price of the lot. Take some time and research the area. Consider your proximity to neighbors as well. 

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