One-stop-shop builder vs ad hoc home build

With the promise of soon having a house made just for you, building a custom home is an exciting time. But the process can also be time consuming, and sometimes it’s just stressful. One way to help ensure the homebuilding process goes smoothly is to work with a one-stop-shop construction company.

Working with only one company – as opposed to dealing piecemeal with a builder, architect, interior design and other related home building professionals – has multiple benefits, and in the end, it can end up saving you both valuable time and money.

Consider these top six benefits to working with a one-stop-shop construction company or custom homebuilder that oversees your custom home build from start to finish.

1)    You’ll have just one point of contact
As opposed to multiple points of contacts at different companies, you’ll have just one company that can address all of your questions. You won’t have to spend the time chasing down people at a variety of firms. Bid processes for multiple companies will also be eliminated, saving you even more precious time. Because your architect and contractor will be talking to each other throughout the entire process, you won’t have to play the role of middleman.

2)   You’ll avoid countless meetings and paperwork
With just one company, the number of meetings you’ll have to attend as you’re designing and building your custom home will be greatly reduced. Working with fewer companies also means less paperwork that you have to worry about both filling out and then keeping track of.

3)   You get an aligned team
With a one-stop-shop construction company, you’ll have an architect and builder or contractor who have worked together in the past on multiple projects and have formed a close and trusting working relationship. They’ll provide their expertise and input together and cohesively. You’ll see fewer disagreements or hiccups because the architect and builder collaborate well together and their vision for your project will more often than not align. Any problems will be solved with a team-based approach.

4)   Your budget will be carefully considered during the entire process
If you work piece meal, it can be easy to lose track of how much you’re spending in total since you have multiple contracts with a variety of companies. With a one-stop-shop, you have a cohesive look at what you’re spending overall. Design work goes hand-in-hand with the building process as your architect and builder work together to make sure you’re not exceeding your budget.

5)   Overall costs may be lower
Often, the cost of an architect or a designer is lower when you’re working with a one-stop-shop construction company as opposed to hiring a professional from an independent architect firm. You can put the extra money you would have spent paying for the services of piece meal professionals into extra features for your custom home.

6)   Time delays can be reduced.
Because your architect, engineer and builder are working so closely together when you work with a one-stop-shop, you’re likely to see fewer problems due to scheduling and fewer change orders that could end up delaying progress on your build.

As you’re interviewing one-stop-shop custom home builders, one question to ask is about the working relationship between the builder and the architect. How do they work together process-wise, and how long have they been working together?

Many people ultimately do find that working with a one-stop-shop construction company and a builder and architect who are familiar with each other and collaborate well together is a more enjoyable and hassle-free way to build a custom home.

Home Automation. How much do you really need?

Home automation is more common these days since it’s become cheaper and easier to install, with more and more people realizing the numerous benefits it can bring. Homeowners who’ve embraced home automation are benefiting from added convenience and safety plus energy savings. As you build your custom home, home tech can be a wise investment.

Home automation monitors or controls systems like lighting, temperature, home entertainment and even your appliances, letting you control them from your smartphone, tablet or computer – with just the push of a button or a voice command.

It’s an investment up front that can pay off in the long run. Indeed, smart home features can lift your home’s resale value by up to 5%, according to Consumer Reports. Home appraisers are also starting to look at the value of home automation. What’s more, some insurance companies will give a discount to homeowners who have home automation.

But, with so many options, it can be hard to figure out what you really need. As you begin to research home automation products, think about your budget, your home design and your lifestyle. For example, are you often away from home or out of town, or do you forget to lock your front door several times a week? If so, an automated home security system with a smart entry system probably makes sense.

Many people choose to start with the basics. They buy a smart home hub like Amazon’s Alexa or Google Home. Through a smart home hub, you can connect and control other smart home products. Then, they invest in a few key home automation products. Later, once they’ve lived in their custom build for a while and figured out what other home automation products may make sense, they add on some “nice-to-haves.”

Automating home security

Many people choose to start with automating their security and alarm systems, including smart doorbells and smart locks. It’s a great way to protect your home.

Smart doorbells – Paired with smart video cameras, they livestream video to your device so you can see who’s coming by your home. Through most, you can talk to and listen to whoever is outside your front door.

Smart locks – These look like a regular dead bolt lock but are connected to Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, or, they can have touchscreen keypads you use to set a code. Smart locks can be pricey at a few hundred dollars upfront. But they allow you to open your door for guests remotely, which can come in handy for letting in dog walkers or a cleaning person. Depending on the lock, you can also set it to sense your smartphone and have it automatically lock the door when you leave the house with your phone.

A smart thermostat

A smart thermostat can lead to big savings when it comes to heating and cooling a home, which accounts for almost 50% of energy use in the average home in the U.S.

This type of thermostat can learn your habits and adjust the temperature when you’re not at home so you’re not cooling or heating an empty house.

They may cost a few hundred dollars up front, but you’ll quickly recoup that money with energy bill savings. Many energy companies also offer a rebate for smart thermostats.

Outlets and light bulbs

Smart outlets convert any appliance into a smart device, and they’re inexpensive, typically costing less than $75. They can come in handy if you want to start your slow cooker while you’re away from home or you forgot to turn off your hair straightener.

With smart light bulbs, you can turn your lights on and off when you’re away from home, helping save on energy costs. You can also program them to turn on and off at certain times of the day, a great safety feature for when you’re away on vacation.

Depending on the smart light bulbs, you might also be able to dim them remotely or even change the color of the bulb. A major benefit of smart light bulbs is that they last many longer than regular bulbs and only consumer 8.5 watts of electricity versus the 60 watts conventional bulbs can consume.

Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors

With smart carbon monoxide and smoke detectors, you won’t have to worry about frequently replacing batteries. A smart carbon monoxide and smoke detector will alert you on your phone in case of an emergency.

Other areas to automate

In addition to the above basic home automation devices, there are plenty of other areas in your home that you can automate. These include:

·       Sprinkler system

·       Window shades

·       Pet feeders

·       Pool cleaners

·       Window washers

·       Murphy beds

·       Refrigerators

·       Washers and driers

·       Basement water leak sensors

·       Garage door openers

While home automation devices are an upfront investment that will add to your expenses as you’re building your custom home, in the long run, they make sense. By investing in home automation, you’re adding convenience to your life, you’re saving money and you’re helping to increase the value of your home.

6 Types of Backsplashes to Consider for Your Home

Backsplashes are much more than just a pretty accent.

They protect kitchen and bathroom walls from the heat of cooking, from grease stains, and from water spots that can damage drywall or even encourage mold growth. They make cleaning easy, and yes, depending on what kind you choose, they can make a design statement.

Backsplashes are most often installed in wet areas and cooking areas, so above sinks, ranges, or cooktops. You’ll typically find backsplashes in your:

·       Kitchen or outdoor kitchen

·       Wet Bar

·       Laundry room

·       Mudroom

·       Bathroom

Backsplashes come in a variety of materials, each with their pros and cons and price points.

1) Tile and Mosaic Backsplashes

Tile and Mosaic Backsplashes are the most common and versatile type of backsplash available in a wide array of materials, colors, and patterns.

Ceramic/Porcelain. This is perhaps the most traditional tile material that’s used for backsplashes. It’s affordable, durable, and easy to clean.

Glass tile. For a more contemporary look, choose glass. Generally, glass tile is just as washable, stain-resistant and durable as ceramic/porcelain tile. Glass’ translucence, however, means it has visual depth, giving the overall tile color a beautiful watery glow.

Natural Stone. Choose natural stone for a classic, luxury look. Natural stone is timeless and elegant, but it’s also easily scratched or chipped and can sometimes stain and be difficult to maintain. Even though, these days, porcelain does a great job of mimicking natural stone, the true luxury look of natural stone can’t be perfectly replicated. Keep in mind, though, that stone costs at least 20-30% more than porcelain.

TIP: If cost is a big consideration when you’re choosing a backsplash, thanks to inkjet printing technology, you can find porcelain tile that looks very much like natural stone.

Tile and mosaic cons: The major con for this material is grout lines. The smaller the tile pieces, the more grout lines the backsplash will have. Grout must be properly sealed, or an epoxy- or acrylic-fortified grout should be used for stain-resistance.

Subway tile is the most popular backsplash, since it’s practical, timeless, and works in interiors of all types.

2) Slab Backsplashes

Slab backsplashes are made of a continuous material that’s sometimes matched to the countertop. Without joints, grout lines or any other areas where dirt can collect, they can create a bold and seamless look. Use timeless traditional materials, installed in a modern way (as one large piece), to balance your contemporary or transitional kitchen.

Natural Stone Slab Backsplash. Unlike stone tile, which has veins going in every direction, a stone slab has connected and structured veins, giving it a totally different overall effect. Know though that, depending on the specific material, some can stain.

Glass Sheet Backsplash. This material offers a minimalistic and modern look. The bouncing light off of glass will make your kitchen look even bigger with glass sheet backsplash. For back-painted glass, color options are unlimited, offering a customizable look while being highly functional and easily maintained.

Other options for a solid backsplash include a Thin Slab Porcelain and Quartz Slabs. Both can be found in patterns mimicking natural stone, in materials like leather, or in a solid color of your choice.

3) Stainless Steel Backsplash

A beautiful reflection from a stainless steel surface will add brightness and an industrial effect to your space. Stainless steel backsplashes come in a variety of geometrical shapes and patterns, making them an excellent choice for just about any kitchen or bathroom design.

MSI

TIP: Stainless steel backsplashes work great for an outdoor kitchen because of their low maintenance and durability. Stainless steel is more resistant to corrosive effects than most kinds of tile.

4) Shiplap Backsplash

Shiplap backsplashes are classic and never go out of style.

Shiplap is a wooden board with a groove cut into the top and bottom, which allows the boards to fit together, giving them a unique appearance.

You can hang a shiplap backsplash horizontally or vertically depending on your space and preference.

If used in the kitchen and bathrooms, shiplap backsplashes require a protective finishing coat to prevent food stains and moisture damage. A cementitious shiplap (like the one made by James Hardie Building Products) should be used behind cooking surfaces.

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McGee

TIP: A shiplap backsplash works well in a mudroom or laundry room. It will protect your walls while also adding texture and interest to your space.

5) Brick or stone veneer

Brick or stone veneer is often a good fit for a farmhouse or industrial style. This type of material has an undeniable rustic charm and easily becomes a focal point of your space.

Keep in mind, though, that while a brick backsplash is known for its strength and durability, it’s extremely hard to clean, and especially when it’s above a range.

6) A mix of materials

Sometimes, the best choice is to use a variety of materials when designing your backsplashes.

For example, some natural materials look unique and are gorgeous, but they’re extremely hard to take care of – they’re sensitive to stains, have tendency to chip, and they can’t withstand harsh chemicals. You can use these hard-to-care for materials in some spots, but then, use a more durable material in areas where stains, heat or water will affect the backsplash. You can enjoy the best of both worlds.

You might also use a mix of materials as an aesthetic choice. A variety of colors, textures or shapes can be a design statement, and make your backsplash a focal point.

TIP: Mixing a marble backsplash with quartz slab, or metal sheet with marble slab are good examples of how to take advantage of both aesthetics and practicality.

With so many backsplash options, choosing one might at first feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be. Start by thinking about what aesthetic you’re going for. Then, consider how much time you want to spend cleaning. Finally, factor in your price point. With the wide variety of options, you should be able to find material that meets all your criteria at a reasonable price.

Building a pool in a flood zone? Here’s what to expect.

In the thick of summer, putting in a pool might sound enticing. But unlike many other cities where building one is fairly straightforward, in Houston – with its frequent flooding events – installing a pool can mean some extra legwork.

For homes located in a flood zone, an area that’s more prone to flooding from rainfall or storm surges, getting your pool approved can take longer than you might expect and it’s a likelihood you need to plan for. There are a few reasons why. First though, you should understand how flood zones work.

Pool Gallery

Layers of review

Inside flood zones are areas called conveyance zones. These are typically in the so-called 100-year floodplains, those areas expected to see a flood event every 100 years. In conveyance zones, water should flow across the land, or convey rainwater or storm surges from where they fall to the nearest river or other body of water.

In these areas, it’s important to build above the floodplain to keep yourself and your property safe and to allow for more land where water can soak into the ground. Your structure must also inhibit the flow of water as little as possible. Your property will be scrutinized for this, and you may need to add an area to hold water – a detention area – or provide other ways for the water to flow through your lot.

If your home lies in area like this, you’ll need Drainage and Mitigation Plans from a civil engineer before putting in a pool. The plans must be reviewed by the Structural and Health Departments and by the city’s Flood Management Office and Storm Drainage Office. Because the latter two offices are understaffed and overworked, it could take a few months to have your plan for a simple pool reviewed. What’s more, the Flood Management Office must inspect the work. Getting on their schedule can be difficult.

The City of Houston lists basic requirements for submitting a plan for a pool on its website. In addition to the city’s minimum requirements, you’ll also need the Drainage and Mitigation Plan and a Topographical Survey if you’re in a floodplain. Outside a floodplain, a boundary survey will suffice.

The Jason Project

A trusted contractor

Once your designer completes plans for your pool, your contractor should pay the plan review fee, which is about $90, and submit plans online for review.

In our experience, plan review takes a minimum of two weeks, with pools in the flood zone often taking twice as long as that, if not longer. Unfortunately, your contractor is at the whims of the city – they can’t do anything to speed up the process. However, an experienced contractor will have fewer mistakes with the first submission, making the process as smooth and quick as possible.

Once the city approves your plans, your contractor will pay the permit fee, which runs at around $205 and up, with an additional $370 for pools in the flood zone. Only then can your contractor start working on your pool.

If you’re interested in looking into building a pool at your existing or new home, start by finding a trusted contractor and make sure they have experience building in Houston and in a flood zone. It’s worth asking if they know the additional requirements before you get started. If they don’t know them off hand, chances are they may not be as experienced as they claim to be working in flood zones.

As you start planning for your pool in a flood zone, you’ll also want to prepare yourself for the additional costs. Added costs of building a pool in a flood zone include:

·       Engineer Plans: $500-$3,000

·       Permit Fees: $370

·       Topographic Survey: $750-900

Valkeith Manor Projects

What about the water?

Once your pool is finished, know that when you fill it for the first time, you’ll be using a lot of water. A big portion of what a homeowner normally pays for water is actually for sewer disposal of the water and other city services.

But when you fill your pool, you’re only using the water portion of the bill – no water is being disposed of – and you’re therefore due a credit to your water bill for that month. You can apply to the city for your Swimming Pool Credit.

From our experience, the process of getting your credit is not without its hiccups, and it often requires a few reminders to the city. So don’t be shy about following up.

Building an open-air extension in a flood zone?

Here’s what to expect

You might also consider installing a separate irrigation meter just for your pool. This can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $3,000. However, you’ll likely earn that money back in three to five years as you continue to pay only for water and not sewage charges when subsequently topping off your pool. If you’re interested in that option, you can speak to your pool or plumbing contractor about installing a separate water meter.

While building a pool in Houston, and especially in a flood zone, can take a few extra steps and it does come with added expenses, in the end you’ll be happy to have a cool getaway in your backyard that can also add value to your property.

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Which microwave to choose and why

As you’re planning out your new kitchen, you might be wondering if microwaves are out of style. You may ask yourself, should I get a microwave for my new home? The answer—you probably should.

Ever since microwave ovens were invented in the late 1940s, they’ve stood the test of time. Microwaves continue to be a staple in U.S. households and an essential kitchen appliance in our modern and fast lifestyle. It’s a quick way to re-heat leftovers, melt butter or chocolate, steam veggies, and even cook full meals. These days, go online and you’ll find tons of interesting recipes that can only be made in the microwave.

Still, even though most of us can’t imagine our kitchen without a microwave, it’s an awkward appliance. Designers continue to struggle to find a good spot for a microwave in the modern kitchen regardless of the model. Some spots are just hard to reach, make microwaves difficult to clean, and can feel unsafe for some homeowners.

Currently, there are four types of microwave ovens on the market: over-the-range, countertop, built-in, and drawer. Some of these models also come in a convection option. Unlike a standard microwave, which uses radio frequency to cook food, a convection microwave oven cooks with heating rods and a fan that circulates air in the oven, keeping food moister and more flavorful.

All microwave oven models have their advantages and disadvantages. Your kitchen floor plan, design style, your preferences and requirements will dictate the right microwave type for your new home.

Over-the-range microwaves. These types of microwave ovens install above a range or a cooktop in place of a range hood.

Pros

·       Great for small kitchens, saves space

·       Functions as a vent, two appliances in one

·       Built-in lights brighten the surface of the range or cooktop

·       A convection oven option is available

Cons

·       Too high for some people to lift heavy dishes inside, including kids

·       Provides poor ventilation (usually 300 cfm capacity, like a basic vent hood)

·       Accumulates built-up grease from the range burners below

Countertop microwaves. These standard freestanding microwaves are designed to be placed directly on your kitchen counter.

Pros

·       Easy to move

·       Inexpensive

·       No installation needed

·       Easy to see inside and reach to clean

·       Convection cooking option is available

Cons

·       Takes up valuable countertop space (about 4 square feet of counter)

·       Take away from a kitchen design, does not look sleek or appealing

Built-in ovens. This type of microwave is installed into a cabinet or a wall.

Pros

·       Frees up counter space

·       An integrated design that looks sleek, luxurious

·       Custom height; the appliance can be installed at your eye level

·       Convection cooking option is available

Cons

·       Professional installation is recommended, which drives up cost

·       Difficult to replace

·       Takes up valuable cabinet storage space

Drawer Microwave. A microwave drawer is designed to fit perfectly into a lower cabinet or inside a kitchen island.

Pros

·       Gives you additional countertop space

·       Provides a modern look

·       Has a spacious interior

·       Easier reach for people who are shorter, including kids

Cons

·       Convection cooking option is currently not available

·       Professional installation is recommended, which drives up cost

·       Hard to reach for cleaning the interior back wall

·       Takes up valuable cabinet storage space

·       Requires bending down to see the controls

·       Difficult to replace

When you’re shopping around for a microwave oven for your new kitchen, there’s no wrong choice. Microwave drawers are a very versatile option for modern cooking needs. Along with built-ins, microwave drawers are also probably the best option if you want a sleek and streamlined look in your new space.

But if you’re on a tight budget, or you have a small kitchen with limited cabinet storage space, it could make more sense to install an over-the-range microwave or go with a countertop one. Whatever you choose, to extend your microwave’s life and avoid unnecessary repair expenses, be diligent about covering your food while heating it up, and always keep your unit clean.

A Builder Warranty. What's Covered and How Long It's There

If you’re like most people, a home is the most expensive purchase you’ll ever make. It’s no wonder, then, that buyers of newly built homes are interested in warranties, which promise to repair or replace certain parts of a home, if necessary, within a certain time-frame from the date of purchase.

For new homeowners, it’s common to confuse a home warranty with a builder warranty, but it’s important to understand the difference. While they might sound similar, the two are completely different. A home warranty applies to existing properties purchased on the secondary market, and it covers replacements and repairs on items like refrigerators or AC units. A homeowner decides whether or not to buy a home warranty.

A builder warranty is extended to a buyer by a builder on a new construction or remodel and it covers components inherent to the house like concrete floors, plumbing or electrical work. Most newly built homes come with a builder warranty.

How long do warranties last?

In Texas, current law provides for two implied warranties when it comes to new residential construction. One is known as the “implied warranty of good workmanship,” which basically guards against workmanship or installation errors. The other is called “the implied warranty of habitability.” That means that under the terms of the warranty, the house needs to meet basic living and safety standards.

The length of a warranty varies depending on the different components of the house it covers. The majority of builder warranties cover workmanship and materials on most of the home’s components during the first year. For example, most warranties on new construction cover siding and stucco, doors and trim, and drywall and paint for the first twelve months following construction.

Coverage for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems is generally one to two years, while any major structural defects—sometimes defined as problems that make the home unsafe to live in—are typically covered for up to 10 years. For example, a roof that could collapse is definitely considered a major structural defect.

What’s included?

While there are differences in new home warranties from builder to builder, in general, warranties should cover all of a home’s materials and workmanship, except when the items are covered by a component manufacturer.

In cases where an appliance like a dishwasher or an item like a water heater malfunctions, that would fall outside the terms of a builder warranty because the components are covered by the manufacturer.

Builder warranties typically cover items including:

·       Siding and shingles

·       Carpentry work

·       Thermal and moisture cover

·       Waterproofing

·       Insulation

·       Concrete foundations and floors

·       Doors and windows

·       Glass work

·       Garage doors

·       Paint

·       Plumbing

·       Electrical work

·       Heating and cooling systems

·       Septic system

Most builder warranties do not cover:

·       Household appliances

·       Defects from work the homeowner or anyone else does after the builder is done

·       A home’s shrinkage and expansion

·       Paint fading

·       Minor cracking

·       Issues that are weather-related issues

·       Shrinkage of joints

·       Dampness/condensation from a homeowner not maintaining enough ventilation

·       Insect damage

·       Components covered under manufacturer and third-party warranties (Remember, it’s the new owner’s responsibility to register for these types of warranties.)

As you build a new home and sign a contract for a builder warranty, it’s always a good idea to read the fine print to understand exactly what’s covered and what isn’t, and how long you’re covered for. Also, make sure you know how to let your builder know if a problem does pop up during the warranty period. For some, you have to send in written notification, while others might have a hotline you need to call.

If you’ve worked with an experienced, high-quality builder, your new build will hopefully be free of any major problems for years to come. If any unexpected issues do arise though, you’ll feel better knowing that your builder warranty is there to cover you.

A home builder’s response to the COVID-19 crisis

It wasn’t long ago that experts were marveling at how for the first time ever in the U.S, we slipped into a new decade without a recession. Economists were cautiously optimistic about 2020. Of course, no one could predict the current pandemic.

COVID-19’s impact on the residential construction industry has been sharp, and especially in Houston, where construction had been booming. The coronavirus has changed our world and upended any previous construction industry predictions.

Houston’s residential construction industry has seen its share of setbacks over the last twelve years. Like the rest of the world, Houston was hit by the global economic crisis in 2008. Then, we saw a slew of hurricanes and disastrous floods—from Hurricane Ike to Hurricane Harvey—six flood events since 2008. Thousands of jobs disappeared. Then, we were faced with a shortage of construction workers as residents rushed to rebuild.

Now, in the last month, and almost overnight, the Houston housing industry went from explosive growth to a sharp slowdown. Many areas have seen a total freeze in new projects. At Arieli Custom Homes, we’re thankful that for now we’re still working. Housing construction has been deemed an essential business, and as we continue to work, we’re doing everything we can to keep ourselves, our subcontractors and our clients safe.

We’ve changed operations by:

1)     Meeting with clients and other business partners online or via phone conferencing, whenever possible. Practicing social distancing when we have to have in-person meetings.

2)     Asking our workers to maintain a safe distance from each other whenever reasonably possible.

3)     Reminding our teams to use always good hygiene.

As we continue to help our clients realize their dream of owning a custom-built home, we’re aware of the impact of COVID-19 on the residential construction industry and how the pandemic might alter the construction workforce, materials, construction financing, and project costs in general.

We’re optimistic that eventually the market will recover. But at the same time, we’re realistic, and we know there will be hardships along the way.

The construction workforce. Construction isn’t the type of work you can do from home. Much, if not most, of the work we do in custom home building requires close proximity, if not close contact with others. Workers are at risk of being exposed to the virus, of getting sick and of being quarantined at home as they recover. If too many workers fall sick, construction projects could be delayed. Without work, sub-contractors and their families will feel the effects of the loss of income.

Construction materials. The virus could also lead to problems with production, deliveries and the import of goods. Around 80% of the materials used in U.S. construction are made in China. Chinese-made goods will likely rise in price, or we could end up seeing a shortage of construction materials.

Construction financing. With a less rosy economic outlook for the foreseeable future, lenders might perceive too much risk for speculative construction of almost any kind, and they might step back from or cancel approved loans.

Costs. The virus could upend the budget and timeline for ongoing projects and those about the start. Estimates could become moot as a dwindling supply of materials pushes prices up.

Our clients. We understand people’s financial situation may have changed because of the pandemic. Some clients might need to adjust plans to reduce costs, others might need to pause on a project. We have the same concerns and hopes for the future as our clients. We regard our clients as friends, and we’ll be flexible and work to find creative ways to help them preserve or pause their projects.

We got into the real estate business during the 2009 economic crisis, and then established our own local family business, Arieli Custom Homes, just before Hurricane Harvey flooded thousands of Houston homes. After Harvey, we were eager to help rebuild our community, where we live with our children.

We Houstonians have been through difficult times together. Now, here we are again, facing an unprecedented unknown. But we are resilient and resourceful. Together, we’ll do everything we can to succeed. We’ll tighten our belts and we’ll push forward, working diligently and lifting each other up along the way.

There are tons of great reasons for women to get into construction

In the last ten years, more women have started working in construction. But unfortunately, it’s still largely a male-dominated field.

Only around 10% of construction workers are women, and of those, just 1% work on job sites—as subcontractors, superintendents or inspectors. More women work in industries like mining and natural resources than in construction.

So, why the big gender gap in construction? Maybe women think the field is an unappealing one to work in because of the grueling physical tasks required and its often cluttered work environment. Maybe men think women can’t handle the job. Or maybe, it’s a little bit of both.

It’s true that the kind of work that gets done on construction sites is usually physically challenging—installing tiles, climbing scaffolding, or carrying heavy pipes. Other less physically demanding jobs typically require workers to be well-versed in all parts of the construction process and to give instructions to mostly men on a daily basis. For some women, that might sound hard and intimidating.

Yet, at Arieli we often work with amazing women on our projects. We love when we can collaborate with and learn from talented women working in construction.

Over the years, we’ve met plenty of daughters who work side-by-side with their fathers—and wives who work with their husbands—lifting, moving and installing heavy materials. A lot of the women we work with tend to get into the industry because it’s their parent’s or their partner’s business. We’re always quick to encourage women working in construction.

There are tons of great reasons for women to get into construction, including:

1. Salary. The gender pay gap is significantly smaller in construction occupations, with women earning on average 99.1% of what men make.

2. Diversity. Most industries that were dominated by one gender in the past—chefs or teachers—have changed a lot in the last 20 years, and for the better. Construction is on its way, and the more women who join, the faster the workforce becomes more diverse.

3. Different points of view. It’s always great to have different perspectives on the job. We’ve found that often the women we’ve worked with approach problems from a different angle and can offer a fresh take on problem-solving.

One of the women we work with often is Marisol Suarez, who joins her tile worker father, Manuel, on the job. Manuel starting teaching Marisol his trade when she was little, and she loves the challenge of a picture-perfect installation and seeing results.

“As a woman working in this industry, it can be a challenge,” Marisol says, “but it's awesome to learn new things and feel I can accomplish the same things as a man. It's great working with my dad—he’s a huge inspiration to me—and it’s fun to build.” 

Perhaps the most difficult part of the work, says Marisol, is coming up against male workers who doubt her abilities. But she doesn’t let that stop her. “As long as we work hard and put in the effort, women are just as capable as men,” she says.

Follow these tips to save money on your new build. Learn where to cut and compromise when building your home!

A fancy bathtub, kitchen tiles sourced from Italy, a wraparound porch. As you’re planning your new, custom build, it’s normal to be excited about all the possibilities—the special features and finishes you’ve always wanted in your dream home.

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But often, budgets are limited. Some busy future homeowners also want to help customize and personalize their home by choosing the features and finishes themselves. That takes time, however, and will likely add to the length of the project as the number of features continues to grow and the homeowner struggles to find time.

With custom home builds, it’s okay not to have it all. To make your project less stressful and more pleasant, it helps to decide which features you can’t live without and which you can compromise on. Some homeowners find only after they’ve completed a build that they included items they rarely use. Think about your needs, and current and anticipated future lifestyle, as you plan your project. Setting realistic goals that include possible compromises and cuts also helps to reduce overconsumption and protects the planet.

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Consider these top six types of compromises and cuts that can be made during planning and construction of new home builds:

1. Forgo a tub in the master bath. A big, freestanding bathtub can be a nice focal point in a master bath, but in recent years some homeowners have decided to leave out a tub in the master bath and instead use the space for a shower. Not including a tub can save both money and time spent agonizing over the right tub.

2. Saving items for future installation. Maybe you want a pool or an elevator installed in your custom build, but you just don’t have the funds. The groundwork can be laid for items like pools and elevators during your build, making it less expensive for you to complete the installation down the road.

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3. Think about rooms you can combine. Some homeowners choose to combine rooms they don’t use all the time to cut down on costs. For example, if you don’t frequently have guests who stay with you, you could combine a guest room with an office. Other homeowners have paired their dining room with a library.

4. Ditch the porch. Porches in Houston, where temperatures can top 100 degrees in summer, are more often than not designed for a particular look and are infrequently used, especially on the front of the house. On a tight budget? Consider forgoing a porch.

How Much Does It Cost to Convert Windows to a Patio Door?

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5. Reconsider sky-high ceilings. High ceilings look and feel great. They can open up rooms and researchers have found they just make us feel good. But they also cost more to build and they can cause heating and cooling costs to add up.

6. Scale back the size of your kitchen island. Kitchen islands can help your kitchen flow and provide a great space for food prep. The average kitchen island measures at about 3 feet deep by 6 ½ feet long. Some people like to have even bigger islands, but those over 5 feet deep are just too large to efficiently use or clean. Creating a large island for your kitchen also adds a good deal to building costs.

Double Kitchen Islands. A Trend Not Going Anywhere

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As you’re planning and executing your custom home build, keep in mind these six compromises and cuts. If you find yourself nearing the end of your budget or you’re too busy to take the time to browse all the features and finishes you might want, consider scaling back, at least for now. It’s okay not to have it all, and you can always add additional features later.

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5 things to help keep you from blowing your budget

Worried about going over budget on your new build? Here’s one way to help curb costs: take the time to fine-tune your architectural plan and scrutinize it before submission. The more you research and prepare ahead of time, the fewer surprises you’ll encounter and changes you’ll have to make.

In general, it’s always a good idea to save 10 to 15% of your budget as a buffer when planning a project. Unfortunately, it’s not unusual for homeowners to spend more than that, but that doesn’t have to be the case.

In a construction project, a variety of factors can elevate or lower your costs. A good architect and builder help clients navigate their unique budget, style preferences and family needs. To make sure you and your team are moving in the right direction, consider these five often-overlooked factors that could play a big part in your budget planning.

1) Gross square footage. Construction costs are normally quoted in “net,” “livable,” or “air-conditioned” space. But depending on the size and design of your custom home, your architectural plan may include many more non-livable areas than you’re expecting. A grade level basement, a porch, or garage, for example. These areas still cost a good amount of money to build—mostly in foundation costs—so make sure you really want those areas before committing.

2) Your lot height. Building your home up off the ground, otherwise known as “above grade,” is more expensive than “on grade.” If you try to size up your lot yourself, you won’t be able to tell how high off the ground you’ll need to build your first floor. To get your lot’s exact height, pay for an elevation certificate and a topographic survey. That will show you how high you should build above grade. In Houston, lot heights are measured from sea level. The MFPE (Minimum Flood Protection Elevation) is the lowest elevation above sea level that you can build your first floor, according to the city or FEMA. In general, the lower your lot’s elevation, the higher you have to build and the more it will cost. In Houston, homeowners in a flood zone may want to build even higher than required. Knowing your lot’s elevation will give you a better sense of the cost of building up.

3) Dead corners and unused spaces. Look for dead corners and spaces you can incorporate into an existing room or remove entirely. Your garage floor and the first floor will be at different heights if you’re in a flood zone—your first floor has to be above a certain elevation, while your garage floor needs to be at ground level to allow you to drive your car into your garage. We usually use this height difference to build a storage space, and our clients love it.

4) Door sizes and the way doors open. To avoid change orders, check all of your door sizes in your architectural plan and the direction each door opens. For most interior doors, 30” is the standard width. Some doors, however, should be wider. We’ve seen homeowners remove door casings and door jambs to fit a washing machine into their laundry room. Carefully checking your plan to make sure your laundry door is at least 36” wide can help avoid similar issues. It’s this type of design element you should consider before finalizing your plan. Many homeowners also don’t think about which direction a door will open before it’s too late, and realize it wastes space after it’s installed. You can avoid having to order a new door, or bring painters, carpenters and floor installers back for a costly fix by doing the legwork upfront.

5) Roof pitch. Pitched roofs—for example, those with shingles—versus a low pitch or flat roof—have a number of advantages, including energy savings, a longer lifespan and helping protect your home against the elements. With a pitched roof, and especially a roof with a high pitch, you can also make use of the extra space. One way to utilize that space is to use it to store mechanical equipment like your water heater. If you want a pitched roof, carefully check your plan to make sure it’s adequately high. Sometimes architects will default to a low or flat roof because they look appealing or because of an area’s restrictions on building height. Without a pitched roof though, you may end up needing to buy smaller, and more expensive, mechanical equipment that can fit in your attic, or you might have to spend the money to build a special room to house the machines. It all comes down to your taste and priorities, but understanding these nuances before the building process starts is important.

Identifying all these components on an architectural plan isn’t easy. That’s why we offer preconstruction services where we check our clients’ plans before submission to make sure they get exactly what they need and they’re aware of all costs.

A new build often comes with its share of surprises. You don’t want one of those to be thousands of dollars in unexpected costs. By taking the time to carefully consider and review your architectural plan, you can help ensure your costs stay on track.