What Should Homeowners Prioritize in a Build?

Whether it's a new phone, clothes, or a family car, today we're often resigned to the fact that the new things we own won't last forever. However, there is one thing that we still expect to endure for the long haul, and that's our homes.

Homeowners like you are faced with countless decisions to make and options to consider during their home building process. Yet many often don't know what decisions they should prioritize or even the best options available as they begin. To give you a head start, let's take a look at the key home building decisions you should prioritize to help your new home truly stand the test of time.

Priority Home Building Decision #1 - Weather and Climate

The weather and climate where you live should be a major priority that influences the home building process, from the materials you use to the home’s design. For example, if you live in an area that experiences high rainfall and humidity, moisture in your home can become a real challenge, leading to mold growth, warped materials, and even flooding. Because of this, you want to choose roof and wall panels like LP WeatherLogic® Air & Water Barrier to provide a moisture resistive barrier for your home’s structure. These types of panels can help keep water from invading your home while also allowing any trapped moisture to escape. 

But if you live in a colder climate, you need to build a home that can survive freezing temperatures, ample snow, and high winds. For starters, incorporating a steep-angled roof into your home’s design will keep the heavy snow off your home so it doesn’t collapse. But you also want to build with materials that can insulate your home as temperatures drop, such as LP NovaCore® Thermal Insulated Sheathing. This ensures your home stays warm when you need it and may even help you save money long-term on heating bills.

Priority Home Building Decision #2 - Fire Resistance

With the amount of wildfires in the news recently, it's clear that fires can happen anywhere. That's why incorporating fire-resistant materials should be near the top of your list of home building decisions.

As you begin, think about constructing your roof with fire-rated materials like concrete, metal, or slate to minimize the impact of flying embers. Also consider using double-glazed, tempered glass for your home’s windows to protect them from shattering in extreme heat. Adding LP® FlameBlock® Fire-Rated Sheathing throughout your home will also help prevent flame spread and strengthen your home’s burn-through resistance capabilities. Regardless of where you live, prioritizing fire resistance in your home building process will give you enduring peace of mind. 

Priority Home Building Decision #3 - Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

One of the more economical home building decisions you can make is to prioritize energy efficiency in your home’s design. A more energy-efficient home means more money saved on utilities year after year as your house requires less heat or A/C to keep you comfortable. Installing strong, sturdy sub-flooring in your home for example (such as LP Legacy® Premium Sub-Flooring) can help insulate your home’s floors, preventing heat loss in the colder months. 

And for warmer weather, building your roof with radiant barrier sheathing like LP TechShield® panels means your home’s structure can help block radiant heat, helping to reduce attic temperatures and keep your house cool. These products may even help you qualify for energy rebates—meaning more money in your pockets! 

Your energy-efficient home can also aid in environmental sustainability as well. There are more steps you can take in the home building process to support our planet. Consider using renewable energy sources such as solar panels for electricity if you live in areas with abundant sunshine. Or look for sustainable ways to reduce your home's water usage, such as installing low-flow toilets or a water recycling system to reuse water for your plants or yard.

Priority Home Building Decision #4 - Long-Term Quality 

When selecting your home's structural building materials, it's important to think long-term. While it may be tempting to go with low-budget options to save money initially, that decision can backfire down the road. Cheaper materials can require additional maintenance as they age and face the elements over the years, leading to additional costs overtime. You may even have to replace structural materials altogether, which can be very expensive as well.

Instead, it’s better to set aside more in your budget for top-notch products, such as those in the LP ® Structural Solutions portfolio that can stand up to the elements. Embracing quality from the beginning will lead to a more resilient house for years to come.

Elevate Your Home Building Process With More Expert Advice

By prioritizing these home building decisions, you’ll be on your way to building a lasting house you love. And if you’re looking for additional tips and expertise for the home building process, our team at LP® Building Solutions is here to help. Check out our blog now to learn more.