Starting the journey to build your own home can be both thrilling and fulfilling, and understanding its terminology will only enhance this experience. Our A to Z guide aims to demystify some of the more obscure words you may come across during this process, providing the confidence needed for informed decisions. When it comes to self-building, knowledge is power - knowledge will take you one step closer towards realizing your vision!
In this comprehensive guide series, we’ll explore terms that will dance their way into your life as you embark on this exciting journey. Think of it as your trusty dictionary while you navigate the mysterious territories of planning permission conditions, floor plans to insulation types or interiors and so much more.
In this second ‘bite-size’ section we take a look at letters E through to J.
E
Energy efficiency - When it comes to self-building, energy efficiency is often at the forefront An energy-efficient home is defined as one which optimizes its energy usage to decrease wasteful usage and consequently lower utility bills while simultaneously decreasing environmental impact by using less energy. As you design and construct your home, consider its energy efficiency when making decisions about design. Installing high-quality insulation, energy-saving windows and eco-friendly building materials can greatly decrease energy consumption in your build. Energy efficient elements help your home remain warm in winter and cool in summer, which means your heating and cooling costs will decrease significantly. Plus, creating an energy-efficient home adds value and appeals to future buyers who prioritize environmental consciousness - it's more than just about building houses; creating sustainable living spaces benefits both wallet and planet alike. By installing energy-efficient appliances and insulation with smart home technology such as smart meters you can significantly decrease your utility costs while making the home more comfortable all year round - an investment you'll cherish long into the future so it’s a win-win solution all round!
EnerPHit – Altering or adding a component or feature not fitted during original manufacture or when first constructed, while following Passivhaus principles
Elevations - In architecture, elevation refers to any view of a building from one side. Imagine taking a snapshot of your house from its front, side or back! On plans and drawings you will see “Rear Elevation, Side Elevations and so on. Elevations help visualize how your home will look once complete by detailing window placement, door styles, roof lines and more Understanding elevations will ensure your vision for your new home comes across clearly so they can build it accordingly!
Eaves - This refers to the part of the roof that overhangs the walls of your home and directs rainwater away from its sides, safeguarding walls and foundation from potential water damage. Eaves also play a critical role in adding architectural character, providing visual elements that add visual interest and elevating design aesthetics. Furthermore, they reduce cooling costs by shading windows during hotter months, thereby cutting cooling costs significantly. When sketching out house plans it's wise to give thought as they can have significant ramifications on both functionality and style!
Excavation - Prior to any building taking place, excavation involves clearing away soil, rocks, and any existing structures to prepare the ground for foundations. Proper excavation techniques must be implemented to ensure your home stands the test of time.
Establish Connections - Utility connections are another crucial aspect of self-build projects, ranging from electricity grid access and water delivery systems, sewage treatment facilities, internet and phone connections, etc. Planning early for these connections is vital and can be extremely costly and time consuming. Luckily for all plot purchasers at Strawberry Grange this is in hand, and they will be purchasing serviced plots where utility connections have been brought to the boundary of their plot already.
Ecological Footprint : Your ecological footprint is a measure of the impact your new home has on the environment, from energy usage to waste production. As you build, consider your material choices which could either reduce or expand this impact; choosing eco-friendly materials and energy-saving systems could create an environmentally-friendly home! Investing in sustainable materials could make a big difference!
Engineer - An engineer is a professional who ensures your structure will be safe and sound. Engineers specialize in structural and civil - they're an invaluable part of your team!
F
Finance: There are a number of lender available in the UK who can advise on an individual basis. At Strawberry Grange we have secured a lending panel of 3 lenders who are prepared to lend and therefore, should potential plot purchasers require it we have 100% coverage on the site.
Fabric – The main structural elements that contribute towards the thermal performance of the building.
Fabric First - An approach in building design that emphasizes improving the building's thermal envelope to lower the home's energy consumption. This is done at the design stages, through careful consideration of the design and construction of the building before thinking about installing technological features
Form – The shape and configuration of a building.
Form Factor – Measured as the ratio of the thermal envelope surface area to the treated floor area.
Frozen Drawings - Drawings that have been finalised and are expected to receive no further amendments.
Facade: Your facade refers to the outer facade of your building that faces out into public view, such as its front portion facing a street. As your first impression, take care in selecting materials, colours, and designs that best represent you and set an impressionable first impression for visitors entering your home. A well-designed facade can boost curb appeal while setting a vibe throughout
Foundations - Think of your foundation as the backbone of your home - its purpose is to support everything that stands on it and prevent sinking or settling over time. They're the unsung heroes of homebuilding; taking their role seriously means no cracks or structural issues down the line! There are different kinds of foundations depending which best suit different ground and soil conditions of a particular location.
Framework - A home's framework refers to its supporting structure - think of it like its skeleton! Depending on your design choice and desired aesthetic, your framework might consist of timber or steel depending on desired aesthetic. At Strawberry Grange it will be timberframe.
Framing - Once your foundation is secure, the next step should be framing. Framing serves as the structural framework of your home; comprising walls, floors and ceilings designed to give shape and support your design. Usually constructed from timber, framing will determine room layout and size as you assemble a giant puzzle--one which will eventually become your dream home! With framing underway you'll start to see your ideas come to fruition as walls go up and spaces emerge!
Fenestration - This may not be something you hear everyday! Fenestration is the arrangement, proportioning, and design of windows and doors in your home that contribute to natural lighting, ventilation, energy efficiency, as well as aesthetics. Fenestration can make your living space feel either more open and spacious or cozy and intimate depending on what works for you - think about how windows and doors would enhance that atmosphere when creating your ideal living space!
Floor Plan - A floor plan serves as the blueprint of your home's layout, and understanding it when embarking on a self-build project is critical in optimizing space utilization and creating a home that fits with both you and your lifestyle needs. An architectural plan is typically a two-dimensional drawing that depicts the arrangement of rooms, walls, doors and windows from an overhead view. Perhaps you envision creating an open-plan living area to facilitate family gatherings? Or do you prefer more defined areas for privacy? Your floor plan provides a chance to visualize how life will flow within its walls, so don't be shy about playing around with various designs and layouts in this stage - it is here where you can determine how best to achieve your dream home before ever breaking ground!
Finishing Touches - Now that the bulk of work has been accomplished - walls up, roof on, plumbing working properly - it is time to discuss finishing touches. Interior design encompasses everything from choosing paint colours, flooring types and fixtures for your kitchen and bathrooms to reflect your individuality and taste. Every detail makes a difference in creating the feel and character of your home and giving your house it’s personal identity - these details speak volumes about you as an individual! When selecting finishing touches, think carefully about their effect in creating an overall aesthetic - whether modern minimalism or rustic charm is what speaks to you. Don't rush this step; this is your opportunity to showcase who you are in your new space. Take time choosing elements that bring joy.
Footings - are concrete bases that sit beneath your foundation walls, acting like shoes to keep the structure secure on its foundation. For maximum long-term stability and weight distribution, properly designed and installed footings must meet local building codes and soil conditions
Flashing - Your home needs flashing to prevent water damage and leaks. Installed around key points like windows, doors and roof intersections, flashing acts like an umbrella to divert any rain away and protect walls and foundation. Whenever discussing plans with builders for your future home make sure flashing details are discussed; flashing can keep moisture at bay and protect both walls and foundation.
G
Ground works - are the first stage of any self-build project, and they're important for ensuring that your home is built on a solid foundation. Think of ground works as the foundation upon which your dream home will rest. This term encompasses any initial preparation and construction works conducted on the land prior to starting construction on it; such tasks could range from excavation, laying down foundation, installing drainage systems or any combination of these.
Gable – The top end of the wall of a building, usually in the shape of a triangle, where it meets the sloping parts of the roof. In architectural designs gables can be glazed or part glazed or have a feature which adds character and style to homes. Whether traditional or more contemporary designs, creating a gable feature can express your individuality through design choices.
Glazing – The process of fitting windows with glass and the practice of adding windows and doors that provide natural light while also increasing energy efficiency and security in the home.. The process should aim to maximise the solar gain in the winter and minimise it in the summer Within self-building contexts, glazing refers to using materials with specific performance attributes to add visual interest while increasing energy efficiency and security. Your choice of double or triple glazing can have an enormous effect on how energy efficient and beautiful your home is; keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer while cutting noise pollution; you could also opt for decorative glazing which adds personal flair while improving its look and enhancing its value over time.
Green belt - Green belt land is a designated area of land around towns and cities that is protected from development to prevent urban sprawl and maintain the openness of the countryside. Each local authority will have slightly varying policies on what is and is not permitted on green belt. Sometimes small areas of Green Belt can be designated for other purposes in a Local Plan, but in other cases Green Belt policies will be very strict and fixed.
Ground Source Heat Pump - GSHPs use buried pipes filled with a mixture of water and antifreeze, which absorb heat from the ground and relocate it indoors. This heat is usually transferred to a hot water cylinder.
Guttering - As your home takes form above ground, guttering becomes an essential component. Guttering refers to a system of channels and pipes used to collect rainwater off your roof channeling that water away from your roof to avoid drainage problems, thus protecting your home from potential water damage.
Green Building - Green building involves designing and constructing your home to minimize its environmental impact. This may mean using eco-friendly materials, energy-saving systems and practices that reduce carbon emissions. Solar panels can harness sunlight for power instead of traditional sources like coal. Adopting green building practices not only benefits Mother Earth but can lead to lower energy bills too!
H
Habitat - When it comes to self-building, your habitat refers to the environment you're creating - beyond the physical space of your house but also encompassing community and lifestyle factors that surround it. Your choice of location has an enormous effect on its shape - its value must reflect both your values and needs; designing a home that blends in seamlessly can create a greater living experience while contributing towards building stronger ties within its community or surroundings.
High-Performance Home - When we hear "High-Performance Home," what comes to mind are energy efficiency and sustainability. These homes are built to minimize energy usage while increasing comfort and durability, with features such as superior insulation, energy-efficient windows, renewable energy sources such as solar panels, etc. If your goal is to help save the environment while cutting utility costs simultaneously, investing in a high-performance home might be just what's needed! Additionally, often such properties feature lower ongoing maintenance costs - an added benefit!
Hardscaping - refers to non-plant elements of landscaping like paths, patios, walls, driveways or any other hard material features on your land that require special care to create their desired effect. Hardscape gives your outdoor space structure and function. Think of a beautifully-crafted stone path leading up to your front door or an expansive deck perfect for hosting summer barbecues - that's hardscape in action! Selecting quality hardscaping materials can significantly enhance the appearance of your home, increase curb appeal and provide you with a better return when selling. So when planning for an intimate firepit area or expansive driveway construction project, keep hardscaping in mind as an integral component.
Handover - When your dream home has been completed to your satisfaction, the handover phase officially starts. At this point, ownership and responsibility transfer from project team to you - as you perform a walkthrough to ensure all agreed specifications and expectations have been met as soon as possible; take note of any outstanding work or issues which need immediate attention; this is your opportunity to step into your self-built sanctuary!
I
Insurance - Once your home is built, you will need to insure it. There are a number of specialist self-build insurance policies available. The main contractor on site will also have insurance during the build and will advise you on home owner requirements. "Indemnity" often appears in discussions of insurance and legal protection during the building process, with indemnity policies protecting against specific claims or losses such as when something goes wrong .Understanding indemnity policies can give you peace of mind knowing you're covered against unexpected surprises along the way.
I-Beam - Now let's examine an I-Beam. While this might sound technical at first, once you understand its definition it becomes easier. An I-Beam is a type of structural beam with its shape resembling that of the letter "I." Its innovative engineering allows it to carry heavy loads while remaining relatively lightweight--an impressive feat! I-Beams are frequently used in the frameworks of large buildings, and could play an integral part in your self-build project if you intend on creating open plan layouts with lots of open space between rooms or want to create large unobstructed rooms. Plus, industrial aesthetics may match perfectly with your desired vision!
Index Drawing - An index drawing serves as a comprehensive blueprint that summarizes all of the details about your home, such as layouts, dimensions and specifications of all its various components. Consider it as a guidebook for everyone involved in your build, from architects and contractors to tradespeople and subcontractors. Index drawings help facilitate communication and mean no misinterpretations of plans; they're essential tools and Rob Roy Homes are experts in producing packs for their individual bespoke timberframes so that all trades on site understand perfectly how to erect your kit.
Insulation – Material used in a building to reduce the flow of thermal energy and is commonly found in lofts and walls. Insulation (or thermal insulation in other words) is a material which resists heat transfer between rooms in your home, providing comfort while simultaneously saving on heating bills. Insulation keeps it warm in winter and cool in summer - ultimately contributing to energy efficiency and lower heating bills! You might hear terms like thermal and acoustic insulation used together, or separately when designing homes - both are integral components for comfort and sustainability
Infrastructure - Infrastructure refers to the basic physical systems and services necessary, including roads, water supply systems, sewerage systems and electric grids. When looking at building plots it's crucial to evaluate which infrastructure exists - are there access roads available or can utilities connect to local utilities - this will give an indication of project viability as well as possible costs associated with self-build initiatives. This is one of the massive advantages with Strawberry Grange and the site is de risked as a result. All purchasers will be buying ‘serviced plots’ meaning all services are provided up to the boundary of your plot with connections to preexisting suppliers already agreed.
J
Joist - A beam that supports a ceiling or floor.
Jamb - Jambs, or side posts or frames of doors or windows, are essential when planning out architectural details of your new home. Understanding their importance can make for stylish yet secure entryway or window areas - knowing your jambs well could have an enormous impact on their design and installation can have on both aesthetics and security of your new home.
Jurisdiction - Understanding where and how you're building is critical in adhering to local regulations that come with it. Jurisdiction refers to the legal authority responsible for building codes, zoning laws, and other rules that affect building projects - it ensures your self-build project complies with all required laws while reducing potential headaches later down the line.
Joinery - the craft of joining pieces of timber together to form structures or furniture. In self-building, however, joinery plays an even bigger part. Think of joinery as custom work that transforms raw materials of your home into functional and beautiful structures such as staircases, doorframes and windowsills.
JIT (Just in Time) - is a concept in construction management and project planning. JIT aims to reduce inventory costs by having materials arrive just when they're needed rather than stockpiling them beforehand; this approach helps your project remain on schedule while minimising clutter at your site, helping it stay organized and efficient as work proceeds. Your main contractor will have all this hand, but clear communication with them on things you want to purchase, particularly for interiors, will greatly help facilitate a smooth and timely build and optimize your self-building experience!
Junction Box (Naming Conventions) - A junction box is an electrical enclosure used for making connections that provides protection and an easy means of interconnecting multiple circuits safely. You can't conceal junction boxes in ceilings, walls or non accessible attics and under floor areas.
Building your own home can be an exhilarating journey, giving you the chance to craft a space that perfectly satisfies your needs and expresses who you are. Keep discovering these terms and you’ll soon be speaking the language of an experienced developer. Keep asking questions and don't be shy about seeking help when needed.
Continued success and good building! Until next time!
If you know more words and phrases please add them in the comments below so that others can benefit too.
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