If you are looking to build a home in Raleigh from the ground up, then you have some big decisions to make about the materials used in construction. There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to materials you can use in home construction, each with its pros and cons. You will want to consider them all before making your final choice on what building materials you will use.
In this blog, we will discuss seven things you should consider when choosing materials for your new home.
Related Blog: Design: New Home Construction Process
How much does it cost?
The cost of new construction depends on various factors; the size and location of your home are the two biggest considerations. The average price of a single-family, 2,600-square-foot home in the U.S. is about $300,000. But if you are building in San Francisco, that same home could cost over $1 million.
The type of materials you choose will also affect the price. If you want high-end finishes like granite countertops and hardwood floors, you can expect to pay more than if you are okay with basic materials. So unless you are working with an unlimited budget for new construction, we recommend using the most durable materials priced within your means.
Of course, the labor cost will also play a role in the final price tag. If you plan to do some or all of the work yourself, your costs will be lower than if you are hiring a reputable general contractor in Wake County, NC. It is worth noting that new construction is not something you should tackle alone — hire a professional for the best results!
Is it suitable for your region?
One of the first things you need to do when you are planning on building a new home is to research what type of climate and weather conditions are common in the area where you will be building. In other words, before committing to a material, ensure that it can withstand the climate challenges of your region. After all, you don’t want to build a home that cannot withstand the elements it will be facing.
For example, if you are building in an area that gets a lot of snowfall, you will want to ensure your roof is designed to handle the weight of the snow. The same goes for areas that experience high winds or hurricanes — you will want to make sure your home can withstand those conditions as well.
Is it readily available?
When you are planning to build a home, it is important to factor in the availability of the materials you will need. Depending on your location, some materials may be more difficult to find than others. For example, if you live in an area with a lot of clay in the ground, it might be easier to find brick suppliers than if you live in an area with little clay.
The more unique or exotic the material, the more difficult it may be to find and the longer delivery may take. You surely have a timeline in mind for your new construction, so you may want to choose materials that are compatible with your schedule.
Can it be delivered?
Another thing you need to think about is how your construction materials will be delivered. For example, if you are using standard lumber, it is easy enough to have it delivered to your build site. But if you use more specialized materials, like concrete blocks or steel beams, you will need to ensure they can be delivered to your build site without any problems. Otherwise, you could end up delaying your construction project.
Is it sustainable?
Another one of the most important things to consider with new construction is whether or not the materials you are using are sustainable. This means that they will not negatively impact the environment or deplete natural resources.
Sustainability is essential for several reasons. It is not only good for the environment, but it can also save you money in the long run. And while some materials may be more sustainable than others, it is important to remember that sustainability is a relative term. So even if a material is not perfect, it could still be a good choice for your home.
Also consider transportation costs. The carbon emissions may offset any environmental benefits if these sustainable materials must be transported halfway across the country to your construction site.
Will it fit aesthetically?
Aesthetically, you will want to ensure that the materials you choose for your new construction fit well with the architectural style of your home. You may want to use more contemporary materials if you have a more modern home. Similarly, if you have a traditional home, you may want to use more classic materials. The important thing is that the materials you choose complement the overall look of your home.
The material should also comply with local building codes, zoning ordinances, and Homeowners Association (HOA) rules.
How long will it last?
An important question you need to ask when deciding on building materials is how long they will last. For example, a common material used in framing is 2×4 lumber. But 2x4s have a relatively short lifespan. If you want something that will last longer, you might consider using 2x6s instead. Of course, this all depends on your climate and how often your home is exposed to the elements.
To Sum Things Up
When planning to build a new home, there are many things to consider. The style of home you want, the location, and the budget. But once you have all those big-picture items figured out, it is time to start thinking about the building materials. There are so many choices, and each has its own set of pros and cons. Do your research and talk to your general contractor to decide what is best for your home.
If you plan to build a new home in Wake County, NC, get in touch with Glasgow Design Build today! We are a Raleigh-licensed general contracting firm specializing in creating new spaces and renovating existing ones. Whether you need help choosing the right building materials, building a porch/deck, or home renovations in Raleigh, NC, we have you covered! Feel free to call (919) 244-2979 to schedule an appointment.