Building a new home is an exciting journey, but it often comes with a language of its own. From blueprints and permits to framing and finishes, navigating the world of home construction can feel like learning a new language. In this blog, we’ll break down some common home builder vocabulary to help you understand the terminology and communicate effectively with your builder throughout the construction process.
Blueprints:
Blueprints, also known as construction drawings or plans, are detailed drawings that outline the design, layout, and specifications of a home. They include floor plans, elevation drawings, and cross-sections, as well as details such as dimensions, materials, and construction methods. Blueprints serve as a guide for builders and subcontractors to follow during construction.
Certificate of Occupancy:
This certificate is issued by the local jurisdiction after all inspections of the home have been passed and meet code. The home cannot be occupied until a certificate of occupancy is issued.
Change Order:
A written document usually at the request of the homebuyer to modify or change the original plan. In many cases homebuyers request a change order to modify the floor, add a feature to the home, or change one of the finishes. Be cautious with change orders, depending on the request, a change order results in delays or costs incurred.
Finishes:
Finishes are the final touches applied to a home’s interior and exterior surfaces to enhance aesthetics, durability, and functionality. Common interior finishes include flooring, paint, trim, cabinetry, countertops, and fixtures, while exterior finishes may include siding, roofing, windows, and doors. Finishes can significantly impact the look and feel of a home and are often customized to reflect the homeowner’s preferences and style.
Foundation:
The foundation is the base on which a home is built, providing support and stability for the structure above. Foundations can be constructed from concrete, stone, or masonry and are designed to distribute the weight of the home evenly across the underlying soil or bedrock. Common types of foundations include slab-on-grade, crawl space, and basement foundations, each with its own advantages and considerations.
Framing:
Framing is the structural skeleton of a home, consisting of wood or metal framing members that form the framework for walls, floors, and roofs. Framing typically follows the layout specified in the blueprints and involves assembling and erecting structural components such as studs, joists, rafters, and trusses. Framing is a critical stage of construction that provides the framework for the rest of the building process.
HVAC:
HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, and refers to the systems that control indoor temperature, humidity, and air quality in a home. HVAC systems may include furnaces, heat pumps, air conditioners, ductwork, and ventilation fans. Proper sizing, installation, and maintenance of HVAC systems are essential for comfort, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality in residential buildings.
Insulation:
Insulation is a material used to reduce heat transfer and improve energy efficiency in a home by providing thermal resistance to heat flow. Common types of insulation include fiberglass, cellulose, foam board, and spray foam, which are installed in walls, floors, ceilings, and attics to create a thermal barrier between the interior and exterior of the home. Proper insulation is essential for maintaining consistent indoor temperatures and reducing heating and cooling costs.
Permits:
Permits are approvals granted by local government authorities that allow construction to proceed according to approved plans and regulations. Building permits are typically required for new construction, renovations, and major structural changes to ensure compliance with building codes, zoning ordinances, and safety standards. Permitting processes vary by location and may involve submitting plans, paying fees, and undergoing inspections at various stages of construction.
Plot Plan:
A plot plan shows the location of the home on the lot and includes easements, property lines, required setbacks, and legal descriptions. Once the home is complete, this will be updated to become the final as-built survey.
Punch List:
A punch list is a list of unfinished or defective items that need to be addressed before final completion and occupancy of a home. It typically includes minor issues such as paint touch-ups, trim adjustments, and fixture installations that need to be resolved before the home is considered move-in ready. The punch list is typically compiled during the final stages of construction and addressed by the builder before closing.
Walk-through:
The walk-through is a final inspection of a home by a homebuyer for any possible last-minute problems that need addressing. Any items highlighted during the walkthrough usually result in a punch list. After the builder confirms the punch list items are resolved, the buyer will complete a final walkthrough to ensure that the items are in fact completed. The walk-through takes place before the closing of the property.
Understanding home builder lingo is essential for effectively communicating with your builder and navigating the construction process. By familiarizing yourself with common terms and concepts related to home construction, you can confidently collaborate with your builder to bring your dream home to life.
