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Self Build

 Tips for People Considering Self Build Houses

Self-build houses are becoming a major trend in the new housing world.  Creative control and quality control are among the most popular reasons.  A self-build home project can be defined as anything from the self-builder doing all the work themselves to overseeing professional subcontractors doing the work.

Self-build house projects are the ultimate do-it-yourself challenge.  Building a home from scratch can be one of the most fulfilling accomplishments for any builder, especially the self-builder.  For the most part, they have complete creative control and any work the self-builder can complete themselves will help out the finances.

Consider This

There are many factors which must be considered before a project like this can begin:

  • Land – First and foremost, land must be available for the house to be built on.  Not just any land, either.  It must be zoned for residential use if it is within a city or county.  Land is becoming increasingly difficult to locate, but it can be found with enough persistence;
  • Finances – There are a variety of mortgages available specifically for self-build house projects;
  • Local authorities – Local planning boards will have to approve the project before construction can begin.  All the proper permits will need to be obtained, too;
  • Plans – Building plans will be required by the local authorities before approval is granted so they can “see” the home that will be built.  These can be completed by the self-builder or a local architect can draw them up.  These plans will also help with purchasing supplies in the proper amounts among other things;
  • Building materials – There are a wide variety of building materials on the market.  Framing materials come in wood or metal studs and tracks.  In damper parts of the country, consideration should be given to treated timber, especially for timber joists.  Foundation blocks come in a variety of styles.  Companies such as Celcon Blocks have many different types to choose from.  There are also wide varieties of thermal insulation materials available ranging from Kingspan floor insulation to rockwool insulation for wall cavities and lofts.  There are also many choices in plasterboard ranging from insulated to sound-proof. 
  • Labor – One of the biggest decisions will be who will complete all the work.  Labor is the largest single expense of any building project.  There are many things a self-builder can complete on a self-build house.  However, there will be certain things where consideration should be given to hiring a professional to complete.  Climate control, electrical work, and rough plumbing are just a few.  It is important that the self-builder recognize their limitations and not hesitate to contract with a trained professional on those specific items.

    • These are a few things which will come up in every homebuilding project.  Some require planning up front.  Others can be addressed as needed.  One important thing to remember is unexpected things will always surface in the middle of the project.  Flexibility and calm thinking will be needed at these times.  However, with proper planning beforehand, these can be limited to just a few.