by Sarah Thorn | Jan 8, 2024 | Postings
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="||21px|||" da_disable_devices="off|off|off" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" da_is_popup="off" da_exit_intent="off" da_has_close="on" da_alt_close="off" da_dark_close="off" da_not_modal="on" da_is_singular="off" da_with_loader="off" da_has_shadow="on"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="||13px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.0" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]What Can I Expect After I Move In? Know What to Expect to Avoid Panic Imagine it’s been a few months since your custom-built home was completed. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20231230222600/Youtube_Thumbnails_For_Project_Features-20.png" alt="luxury custom home builders" title_text="luxury custom home builders" _builder_version="4.24.0" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||11px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.24.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]The bliss that comes with spending your money on the right venture![/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.0" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]Common Concerns You’ve moved the furniture in, decorated your favorite spots with mementos and other personal belongings, and even hosted a few housewarming and dinner parties. Your home is the envy of the neighborhood and your friends marvel at the attention to detail and excellent craftsmanship. But there are no perfect homes, and a fact of new home construction involves the foundation settling and minor cracks appearing. Many of the cracks appear because your home is adjusting to temperature and humidity changes—builders can’t build your home under factory-controlled conditions. So don’t panic when minor cracks appear. This is completely normal! To help ease your fears, here’s a list of common situations that occur in new homes. Builders are often asked these questions (and plenty more) from panic-stricken homeowners who fear their perfect home is now laden with problems. Remember, thousands of components were used to put together your home over an extended period of time, so settling and minor adjustments should be expected. A good builder will address your concerns promptly and work with you. So what can you expect?: Trim Molding Cracking: This is very common and there’s no way around it. Expect to find minor cracking and separation in your moldings, especially in two-story homes. Settling, heat expansion, and contraction will occur as your home acclimates to the new temperature conditions inside from running your air conditioner and heating systems. This does not mean there is anything structurally wrong with your home. Cracks in your molding actually look worse than they really are. A qualified handyman can caulk these minor cracks within minutes, and after the repair you shouldn’t be able to tell there was ever a crack at all. Grout Cracking: Another common spot to find minor cracking is in the tub and shower or kitchen backsplash area. You may notice cracks appearing along the grout lines between tiles or in the corners of these areas. Again, a handyman with the appropriate sealant can take care of this. It’s a good idea, however, to add the sealant quickly to prevent moisture from seeping behind the tile and causing any damage. Hardwood Expansion and Contraction: If you have hardwood floors professionally installed in your home (not constructed from a pre-fabricated kit), you can expect to find some minor cracks or swells, appearing over time. The hardwood acclimates to the temperature and humidity of your home (again due to cool air and heat) after installation and the wood planks will expand and contract. This is normal! It’s best to allow the wood to expand and contract for at least six months so it completely settles before making any repairs. A professional installer or handyman can putty in the minor cracks. Window and Door Adjustments: Even windows and doors will need time to adjust to the temperature after a new home is finished. The doors, locks, door handles, and deadbolts may need some minor adjustment. This is completely normal. Cracks in the Sidewalk, Driveway and Garage: It is not uncommon for minor cracking to occur along concrete sidewalks, driveways, and even inside the garage or basement. Expansion and contraction also happens here because of the varying temperature conditions that the concrete is exposed to. As long as you don’t notice a difference in the height of the concrete on either side of the crack, don’t worry. These cracks are normal. It does not mean that there is anything wrong with the concrete foundation. Typically cracks in concrete are not mended unless there is a height difference between the concrete on either side. Receptacle Not Working: If a receptacle (wall plug) in the bathroom, kitchen, garage, or in the home’s exterior mysteriously stops working, don’t be alarmed. It may just be a tripped circuit. The current electrical code requires builders to put in a receptacle called a GFCI, or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. This measure is added for your safety to prevent accidental electrocution. These receptacles have an internal trip circuit built in that acts as a safety mechanism when there is water and electricity coming in contact. If there is an electrical surge, the receptacle will
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by Sarah Thorn | Jan 5, 2024 | Casa Bonita, Construction, Construction & Design
Living Stone Design + Build announces its inaugural luxury custom home in the northern mountains of South Carolina, a masterpiece set to unfold within The Cliffs at Mountain Park, marking a significant milestone for our team and inviting you to witness the seamless blend of nature’s beauty and architectural prowess.
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by Sarah Thorn | Jan 3, 2024 | Postings, Recognition
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="76px||21px|||" da_disable_devices="off|off|off" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" da_is_popup="off" da_exit_intent="off" da_has_close="on" da_alt_close="off" da_dark_close="off" da_not_modal="on" da_is_singular="off" da_with_loader="off" da_has_shadow="on"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="||13px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.2" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]Recognition as the Best Home Remodelers in Asheville by Home Builder Digest At Living Stone Design + Build, we are thrilled to announce that we have recently been featured at the top of the list for The Best Home Remodelers in Asheville, North Carolina by Home Builder Digest. This recognition from a national online magazine specializing in the residential housing industry is a testament to our commitment to exceptional craftsmanship, innovative design, and dedication to building happier, healthier lives in Asheville and beyond. Read the article here.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20231129143321/Image-14-1-1.jpg" alt="best home remodelers near me" title_text="best home remodelers near me" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||11px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.2" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="29px||||false|false" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]About Home Builder Digest: Home Builder Digest is a reputable national online magazine that focuses on showcasing the best in the residential housing industry. Known for celebrating top home builders, remodelers, and architects throughout the country, Home Builder Digest is a trusted source for recommendations about construction professionals. The magazine provides valuable guides, inspirational resources for homeowners, and consultation services, making it an invaluable resource for those looking to enhance their living spaces. Living Stone Design + Build's Achievements: Being recognized as Asheville, North Carolina's leading design-build firm is an honor that reflects our commitment to excellence. Our portfolio boasts exceptional craftsmanship and an innovative approach that has earned us prestigious awards, including the Best in American Living Awards and the Best Single-Family Custom Home award from the North Carolina Home Builders Association. As active members of the National Association of Home Builders and the Asheville Home Builders Association, we continuously strive to stay at the forefront of industry trends and best practices. Our Dedication to Building Happier, Healthier Lives: At Living Stone Design + Build, our mission goes beyond constructing beautiful homes; we are dedicated to building happier, healthier lives for our clients. This commitment is evident in every project we undertake, from the initial consultation to the final touches. Our team is passionate about creating living spaces that enhance the well-being of those who inhabit them, promoting a sense of joy, comfort, and fulfillment. Asheville, North Carolina: A Hub for Renovation and Revitalization: Asheville, North Carolina, is a thriving location for new and upgraded homes, and we are proud to be at the forefront of this transformative movement. The city's captivating blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and a strong sense of community makes it an ideal setting for our design-build expertise. Asheville's rich history is reflected in the abundance of historic homes that can be renovated and revitalized to meet the needs and preferences of modern homeowners. Situated in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers stunning scenery and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. The city's friendly and welcoming atmosphere adds to its charm, making it a sought-after place to call home. Conclusion: The recognition by Home Builder Digest as the Best Home Remodeler in Asheville, North Carolina is a proud moment for Living Stone Design + Build. This accolade reinforces our position as a leading design-build firm, dedicated to delivering exceptional craftsmanship, innovative design, and a commitment to building happier, healthier lives in the Asheville community. We look forward to continuing our journey of excellence and contributing to the growth and transformation of Asheville's residential landscape.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
by Sarah Thorn | Jan 1, 2024 | Construction, Postings
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="||21px|||" da_disable_devices="off|off|off" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" da_is_popup="off" da_exit_intent="off" da_has_close="on" da_alt_close="off" da_dark_close="off" da_not_modal="on" da_is_singular="off" da_with_loader="off" da_has_shadow="on"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="||13px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.0" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]Should I Hire an Independent Building Inspector? How to Make the Right Call Sometimes homeowners choose to hire an independent building inspector during the building process of their new home, but that decision can be a double-edged sword.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20231230224921/Youtube_Thumbnails_For_Project_Features-21.png" alt="independent building inspector" title_text="independent building inspector" _builder_version="4.24.0" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||11px|||" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.24.0" _module_preset="default" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]A home inspector inspecting a client's custom green-design home.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.0" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Pros and Cons of Building Inspection On one hand, if the building inspector’s intent is to genuinely help the process by effectively communicating what he observes, it can really aid in the process of completing a new home. On the other hand, a building inspector who tries to justify his fee by searching for insignificant things can add confusion and even create an adversarial relationship between the builder and the homeowner. When this happens, nobody wins. Understanding Home Inspections We don’t discourage our homeowners from hiring an independent building inspector. We think it’s important for them to be fully comfortable with the building process. After all, they are investing a lot of money in their new home. If the homeowners can clearly define in positive terms what they want the inspector to do, the inspector will know we’re not in an adversarial position. We will all be on the same page, working together to create a beautiful home. Much of what is noted by a private building inspector is already being handled by the builder, energy rater, green inspector, or the required local, county, and municipal building inspectors at code inspections. Hiring the private building inspector may be additional cost without any real value added to the homeowner. The Risks That May Arise Homeowners who live out of town, out of state, or even out of the country from their home building site may want to hire an inspector to watch over the construction process. This is a different assignment, it is also known as Owner’s Representative. We do not recommend this because it is very difficult to stay on the same team when you are paying someone to find problems. Dustin & Catherine hired an Owner’s Representative after some friends visited their site and one of them advised that they thought we has used the wrong type of plywood on the porch floor. The Owner’s Representative claimed that he was a licensed builder and dazzled them with research on YouTube videos showing alternative methods/products for tiling a porch floor. I showed them our research and had them speak with the representatives from the supply houses who recommended the products in the first place. We offered to replace the porch flooring how Catherine wanted it, but Catherine began second guessing her counsel and ended up telling us to use the product we would stand behind. This incident caused undue stress and expense for all involved. Later, it was discovered that the Owner’s Representative license was archived (meaning he wasn’t allowed to practice). Your Goals Should Align with Your Building Inspector’s To achieve the desired results, it will be important to choose a building inspector who understands the difference and does not try to create an adversarial situation. A good choice here can make or break a situation. We look for people who understand the “we’re-all-on-the-same-team” mentality (and a lot of people don’t). We’re all on the same side; we all want the same thing. We all want a beautiful home, built to the highest standards. Our goals are not opposite yours or the inspector’s. Understanding this is crucial. Be sure you are not hiring someone who feels the need to justify his fee. For any homeowner, if you are feeling uneasy about your builder, then you should question why you are hiring that builder in the first place. Your superintendent should be the person to responsibly manage the project. If you hire an independent inspector, make certain he is helping, not in hindering the building process. -Sean Sullivan [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" specialty="on" admin_label="Building a Quality Custom Home" _builder_version="4.17.4" _module_preset="default" custom_padding="39px|||||" da_disable_devices="off|off|off" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" da_is_popup="off" da_exit_intent="off" da_has_close="on" da_alt_close="off" da_dark_close="off" da_not_modal="on" da_is_singular="off" da_with_loader="off" da_has_shadow="on"][et_pb_column type="2_3" specialty_columns="2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version="4.17.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type="2_3" _builder_version="4.17.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.17.4" _module_preset="default" header_font="|||||on|||" header_text_color="rgba(17,32,73,0.79)" header_font_size="54px" header_2_font="||||||||" header_2_font_size="34px" custom_margin="||||false|false" header_font_size_tablet="39px" header_font_size_phone="38px" header_font_size_last_edited="on|desktop" header_2_font_tablet="||||||||" header_2_font_phone="||||||||" header_2_font_last_edited="on|phone" global_colors_info="{}"]Building A Quality Custom Home Want to know more? This book by Sean Sullivan is full of helpful information in easy-to-read chapters like this blog post. It is a step-by-step guide to the “must-know” issues of building
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by Sarah Thorn | Dec 27, 2023 | Construction, Construction & Design, Postings
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="||21px|||" da_disable_devices="off|off|off" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" da_is_popup="off" da_exit_intent="off" da_has_close="on" da_alt_close="off" da_dark_close="off" da_not_modal="on" da_is_singular="off" da_with_loader="off" da_has_shadow="on"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="||13px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.23.2" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]Why You Shouldn’t Use Friends as Subcontractors Consider The The Pitfalls First Building or renovating a home is an exciting and challenging endeavor. As you embark on this journey, one crucial decision is selecting the right subcontractors for the job.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20231221204721/Youtube_Thumbnails_For_Project_Features-15.png" alt="Subcontractors" title_text="Friendships in Construction" _builder_version="4.23.2" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||11px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.23.2" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Spend your money only where it matters.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.23.2" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Difficulty in Enforcing Standards Professional subcontractors bring a level of expertise and specialized knowledge that's crucial for the success of your project. When hiring friends or family, there's a risk that they may lack the professional experience needed to handle complex tasks. It's essential to prioritize qualifications over personal connections to ensure the work meets industry standards. “I have a friend (or a brother-in-law) who is willing to do the tile work in my new home for a discounted rate. I’d like to use him and save some money.” Most quality custom home builders have learned the hard way that it’s not a good idea to allow homeowners to use friends or relatives for subcontracting work on the house during construction. Frequently it turns out to be a disaster for both the builder and the homeowner. Potential for Unreliable Timelines Here’s one example of why: Scott wanted to use his friend’s custom cabinetry shop. Scott knew the friend well and had spoken to another friend who was pleased with the cabinetry from this particular company. The builder didn’t want to allow it, but also didn’t want to anger his client so he agreed to let Scott use his friend’s cabinet company. The builder was promised the cabinet work would be completed by a specified date, but the cabinets were not installed on time. In fact they were delayed several times and eventually caused a two-month delay in the construction schedule. In the end, Scott and his family moved in without any cabinet doors on the face of the cabinetry in their entire home and then waited an additional two months to have their job complete. That didn’t even take into account the lost momentum or additional cost in interest carry, overhead, and other expenses as a result of the delay from the cabinet shop. Friends and family members may have other commitments and obligations that can interfere with project timelines. Professional subcontractors are more likely to adhere to a set schedule, minimizing delays and ensuring the project stays on track. Reliability is key when it comes to construction projects, and hiring professionals can provide the assurance needed for a successful outcome. Professional Expertise Matters When you hire a builder, I strongly encourage you to allow your builder to do what he does best. When you visit a dentist, you expect him or her to be trained and equipped to do the job efficiently and effectively. You wouldn’t think of bringing your own tools or materials, handing them to your dentist, and asking if you could save money on a filling because your neighbor or friend is in the dental supply business. You wouldn’t take a steak to a restaurant and ask them to cook it for you so you could save a few dollars on the meal. The principle is no different in home building, If you use friends or your own business contacts, it will disrupt the smooth flow of work and communication of what an experienced builder does best. Trust your builder. He has vendors, subcontractors, and a labor force already in place that he works with on a regular basis. BOTTOM LINE Hire a competent builder to do the building; save your friends for the housewarming party. -Sean Sullivan [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" specialty="on" admin_label="Building a Quality Custom Home" _builder_version="4.17.4" _module_preset="default" custom_padding="39px|||||" da_disable_devices="off|off|off" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" da_is_popup="off" da_exit_intent="off" da_has_close="on" da_alt_close="off" da_dark_close="off" da_not_modal="on" da_is_singular="off" da_with_loader="off" da_has_shadow="on"][et_pb_column type="2_3" specialty_columns="2" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version="4.17.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type="2_3" _builder_version="4.17.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.17.4" _module_preset="default" header_font="|||||on|||" header_text_color="rgba(17,32,73,0.79)" header_font_size="54px" header_2_font="||||||||" header_2_font_size="34px" custom_margin="||||false|false" header_font_size_tablet="39px" header_font_size_phone="38px" header_font_size_last_edited="on|desktop" header_2_font_tablet="||||||||" header_2_font_phone="||||||||" header_2_font_last_edited="on|phone" global_colors_info="{}"]Building A Quality Custom Home Want to know more? This book by Sean Sullivan is full of helpful information in easy-to-read chapters like this blog post. It is a step-by-step guide to the “must-know” issues of building your dream home. Discover the custom-home construction secrets that could save you headaches, heartaches, and thousands (if not tens of thousands) of dollars.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url="https://www.livingstoneconstruction.com/building-a-quality-custom-home" button_text="Learn More" _builder_version="4.17.4" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_button][/et_pb_column_inner][/et_pb_row_inner][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_3" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20231129151432/Untitled-design-8.png" alt="Building A Custom Home" title_text="Custom Home Book" _builder_version="4.17.4" _module_preset="default" custom_padding="3px|||||" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_section]