The Custom Home Glossary
Your ultimate guide to custom home building, explained in simple terms.
Whether you’re researching foundational concepts or diving into advanced topics, our comprehensive glossary covers everything you need to know about building a custom home. Browse by category or explore all terms alphabetically.
Browse by Category
Foundations & Framing
- Home Foundations: Learn about the different foundation types and how to choose the right one for your custom home.
- Floor Joists: Essential for floor support and structural integrity.
- Framing Techniques: Explore platform, balloon, and advanced framing methods.
Roofing
- Roofing Systems 101: Discover the key components and materials of roofing systems.
- Roof Pitch Explained: Understand how roof slope impacts your home’s design and drainage.
- Gutters and Downspouts: Essential for managing water flow around your home.
Insulation & Energy Efficiency
- What Is a Building Envelope?: Learn how the building envelope impacts energy efficiency and comfort.
- Understanding R-Value: The science behind insulation effectiveness.
- Energy-Efficient Windows: Choosing the best windows for your custom home.
Contracts & Financing
- Home Contracts: Fixed price vs. cost-plus contracts explained.
- Change Orders: How to handle changes during construction.
- Budgeting for a Custom Home: Learn about loans, budgeting, and cost planning.
Basements
- Basements 101: Types, uses, and what to consider for your custom home.
Browse Alphabetically
A
- Architectural Styles: From Craftsman to Modern, discover popular styles for custom homes.
B
- Building Envelope: The barrier that separates the indoor and outdoor environment.
- Basements: Types of basements and their uses in custom homes.
- Budgeting: Learn how to build a budget and stick to it for your custom home build.
C
- Change Orders: Modifications to construction plans and their implications.
- Contracts: A breakdown of the agreements between homeowners and builders.
E
- Energy-Efficient Windows: How to choose the best windows for energy savings.
F
- Floor Joists: Essential for floor support and structural integrity.
- Framing Techniques: Learn how framing shapes your custom home.
- Foundations: Different foundation types and their benefits.
R
- Roofing Systems: Key components like trusses, rafters, and shingles.
- Roof Pitch: Understand roof slope and its importance.
- R-Value: The measure of insulation effectiveness.
