When comparing house designs for a home building project, it is important to obtain a comprehensive data sheet or house plan cover page that details all relevant information about a home design. Cover page notes are typically located at the back of the plan, and the information found herein generally includes the following details: newly added information, facsimile numbers, scale details, plan credits, revision dates, safety warnings, drawing index, plan set information, special requirements, codes and allowances, and building area. Understanding this information is key to selecting the right house design for a project.House Plan Cover Page Notes | House Designs
The first step when selecting a house design is understanding the basics of home building. Knowing the building and design requirements for the project is essential for ensuring a seamless process. This includes being knowledgeable about various types of materials, structural elements, regulations, and codes associated with the project type. It is also important to consider the building orientation, lot layout, desired interior and exterior features, and required utility locations for the house design. Making sure that all of these factors are taken into consideration when selecting a house design is essential for a successful project.House Design Basics
In addition to being aware of the building basics, it is important to also create a house plans checklist that outlines the desired features of the home design. A house plans checklist should cover all of the elements found on a house plan cover page as well as any special requirements that may be specific to the desired home style. Additionally, the list should include design elements such as type of roof, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, as well as desired upgrades and appliances for the desired house design. Compiling a checklist makes it easier to compare house designs and make an informed decision as to which house design best suits the project.House Plans Checklist
Another great resource to consult when selecting a house design are tip sheets, which provide resources and information on how to best incorporate specific home design elements. Tip sheets are a great resource for getting the most out of a home building project and can be easily found online. Popular tip sheets include interior decorating, room sizes, floor plans, paint colors, window treatments, plumbing systems, and building methods, among others. Taking the time to review these tip sheets before selecting a home design can help to ensure that the chosen house design meets the project goals.Design Tip Sheets
When looking at a variety of different house designs, it is important to remember that a comprehensive plan is needed to ensure the successful completion of the project. A great resource for new property owners is a homeownership process guide that outlines all of the necessary steps for the project. This includes identifying desired features for the house design, finding the right lot, obtaining a construction loan, obtaining necessary permits, selecting a contractor, setting up contracts with subcontractors, and having the house design inspected after it is completed. Following the steps outlined in the homeownership process guide is critical to a successful home building project.Homeownership Process Guide
In addition to the homeownership process guide, there are also homeowner protection tips that can be found online to help ensure a successful homebuilding project. These tips include knowing the fundamental elements of a chosen house design, researching contractors, proficiently evaluating bids, accurately managing job costs, timely payouts, protecting the property from elements, properly maintaining the property, and thoroughly inspecting the house design. Following these steps helps to ensure that the home building project goes off without a hitch.Homeowner Protection Tips
When looking for a house design, it is important to consider energy savings tactics. There are a variety of tips available for incorporating energy-saving elements into the house design. These include proper insulation, solar readiness, upgrading the HVAC system, selecting energy-efficient appliances, using low-wattage lighting, and installing motion-sensor lighting. Taking the time to research and incorporate these energy savings tips into a new house design can go a long way in making the house design more sustainable and cost-effective.Energy Savings Tips for Home Designers
When selecting a home design, it is important to consider sustainable design principles. These principles include selecting materials that are responsibly sourced, using recycled building materials, incorporating energy-efficient elements such as solar energy, implementing green building techniques, using sustainable landscaping strategies, and minimizing water usage. Following these sustainable principles helps to make a house design not only more eco-friendly, but can potentially save money over time.Sustainable Home Design Principles
When selecting a house design, it is important to consider the safety of the home. Elements to consider include improving structural resistance, the use of fire-resistant walls and ceilings, fire-rated doors, smoke and fire alarms, and fire and carbon monoxide detectors. Additionally, implementing non-slip surfaces, railings, and security systems can also be beneficial. Making sure that these safety features are incorporated into a house design helps to ensure that the home remains a safe and pleasant place to live.Creating a Safe Home
When selecting a home design, it is important to keep in mind design features that promote accessibility. Features such as widened hallways and rooms, non-slip surfaces, elevated electrical sockets, grab bars, and larger doorways and windows can all help to make a home design more accessible for those with mobility restrictions. Incorporating these features into a home design helps to make a space more accommodating for individuals who may need the extra help.Designing for Accessibility
Finally, when selecting a house design, it is important to factor in the local climate. For instance, a house design constructed in an area prone to flooding should consider drainage and other ways to mitigate damage. Other considerations include location-appropriate insulation, the use of cross-ventilation and passive heating and cooling, and environmental elements such as sun exposure and prevailing winds. Making sure that a house design acknowledges regional climate details helps to ensure that the house design is optimized for its environment.Design for Local Climate Consideration