Homebuilding usually takes an average of six months, but for custom homes, it can take as short as nine months and as much as two years, depending on many factors, including the size of the project. However, the size is not what makes custom home construction a long term project. In fact, the major reason it takes that long is the various issues that might occur once the work starts, thereby delaying construction speed. We examine some of these issues so you can know what to avoid and how to prepare when you decide to build your custom home.
Permit Delays:
When you’re building a custom home, you will require permits for many aspects of your building in compliance with the building code. Securing these permits is usually a lengthy process with the bureaucracies involved. This will usually eat into the time you’re supposed to use for construction. But you can reduce the length by ensuring that it is your contractor that takes care of all the permits and licenses and getting a contractor that is familiar with the building codes and experienced in handling the bureaucratic processes involved. Although it is part of the builder’s job to get all the permits and licenses, it is your job to ensure the contractor has done that part of the job, don’t assume it.
Weather:
This is one of the natural occurrences that could delay your construction and even lead to cost overruns if you’re not careful. There are different opinions on when it is best to start building your custom home, but the most important thing is, let your local weather conditions determine when you begin. Spring is usually a good time to start the construction properly because you’ll have more daylight time, and the weather is at an optimal level. However, the winter should not waste as you can use it to plan the whole building process so you can hit the ground running. The most important thing is to build in weather that is comfortable for the builders and suitable for the building materials.
Selection of Building Materials:
Getting all the materials you need for your construction, such as cabinets, tiles, countertops, sink, fixtures, flooring, hardware, appliances, etc. can slow down the construction process a long time if not handled carefully and proactively. Starting from the selection of the materials by both you and the builder, there needs to be a consensus on functionality and tastes. What takes even more time is the ordering and delivery of these materials, this may take weeks and months at times, and the builder cannot do anything without the materials. The solution is always to order ahead, way before you need them, and not so long that the fragile or perishable ones may spoil before you use them.
Design Alterations:
This is perhaps what most contractors dislike most when it comes to custom home building. Since a custom home is only on paper until the builder translates it, there are many issues and challenges that could come up during the translation. At times, you realize something is not how you thought it would be and want it changed; other times, you find a better way to shape or build something. All these mean the builder has to remain flexible and adapt designs, demolish some things, rebuild, and spend more time on construction. This will not only cause delays but increase costs, so make sure you factor it into your budget if you intend to make such alterations. And as much as possible, make sure your builder understands the house design and plan before starting so you can avoid losing essential design features in the translation.
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