I know they say the builder is only as good as his trades, and a lot of the home we create would not be possible without the specialists we have by our side. But what if we, as builders, neglected to check up on the quality and completion of all of the items required to execute a custom home build? Sounds like a crazy thought, but this happens more than you realize.

Whether we are creating start to finish custom home masterpieces or transforming beautiful home renovations, there is a very specific process that should be followed. A properly executed schedule is one of the first key elements to completing a project on time. Second, but even more important, is making sure all items are completed properly and that nothing has been overlooked. Efficiencies in construction come with experience. The biggest efficiency is always moving forward and not backwards.

With some of the renovations we have been working on in the past years, the discoveries that we have uncovered are simply appalling. Now we ask ourselves, is the neglect by the builder, or did they simply just not check or confirm that the task was completed properly? I guess integrity could sometimes be the key word for these problems, but I’m not writing this to bash other builders who know better. I’m simply truing to identify the importance of checking on a project, no matter how big or small, all the right times.

Now with Alair, we have created a binder checklist with over 200 pages of review items to ensure our efficiencies. This has been collaborated on by over 1000 years of construction know how and insight. Maybe a little over the top for some projects, but I promise you we never find ourselves going backwards. Now for your own projects I wanted to point out some commonly over looked items to help you review your own projects before you close up the walls with your drywall.

• Make sure that your foundation or concrete slab is either on undisturbed or properly
  packed soil
• Make sure the framing is plumb and square before drywall
• Always check all of your door opening sizes
• Always test both your waterlines and drain lines of your plumbing system before
  covering
• Check to make sure all electrical wires are properly located and terminated in their
  boxes
• Double check all of your cabinetry plans to ensure accuracy with plumbing and electrical
• Ensure all necessary backing is installed for your towel bars and mirrors
• Make sure wires and waterlines are drilled in the center of the wall cavity to avoid
  drywall nails and screws

I know some of these seem so obvious, but these are the main reasons that a “renovation“is needed while building a custom home. There is nothing more frustrating then taking down drywall to try and find a problem, especially when a simple quality control review could have been completed to avoid the situation. I understand the importance of getting a project done quick, just make sure not to overlook a simple mistake that could cost tens of thousands of dollars in headaches later on. We are not perfect either, but we have learned from out mistakes and how to help avoid making some of your own.