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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Everything you need to know

Need assistance? The team at Timber Bay Home Design has compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions below. If you can’t find the answer you're looking for or need further help, feel free to reach out anytime.

YOUR HOME PLAN

How is the square footage calculated?

Like realtors and appraisers, we calculate the square footage of the "conditioned spaces" only, meaning the areas of the home that are heated/air conditioned.  Some areas that are not included in our square footage calculation include porches, patios, sun rooms, screened porches, bonus rooms, garages, and foundations. Some basements may be considered in the square footage if they are finished with rooms (living space).

Will the plans meet my area's building codes?

Each city, state, province and subdivision may have their own set of codes and regulations that have been determined to work best for the area. Our plans are designed to meet building code standards from the time and place where the plan was designed, but plans are not generally updated for any specific region. Many areas require additional steps once you have purchased your plans, including site plans, structural engineering, MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) plans, energy code compliance, and local code updates, so be sure to budget for what is needed in your location. You should consult with your local building official before starting your project. 

What do I need to know about architectural and engineering seals?

Some cities and states require that a state-licensed architect or engineer review and "seal" a blueprint to unofficially approve it prior to construction after a compliance review is done. Prior to application for a building permit or the start of construction, we strongly advise that you consult your contractor and local building department to see if such a review is required. Areas that have heavy rain and snow, earthquakes, coastal conditions, floods and high wind will usually require additional engineering to plans.

What is a walkout basement?

A walkout basement has an exit door or doors that open to the outside, usually on the rear or one side of the house. Walkout basements are ideal for houses that will be built on a sloping lot. Due to shifting soils we recommend any plans needing a walkout basement be reviewed by a local engineer to calculate any bracing that may be needed.

How much will this house cost to build?

New home construction costs vary widely, depending on where the house is built, the level of finish (tile, trim, window quality, etc...) and the construction site. We can provide a “cost to build” estimate using the same software that many insurance companies and home appraisers use.

MY PLANS PURCHASE

What do I get in my plans?

All of our plans contain the basic necessary drawings to be used for the construction of a house including:

  • Exterior Elevations: A dimensioned technical illustration of all four sides showing exterior materials and dimensions.

  • Foundation Plan: Dimensioned plan, drawn to 1/4" scale showing all necessary notations including support columns, walls and excavated and unexcavated areas.

  • Floor Plan(s): Dimensioned plans, drawn to 1/4" scale for each level showing room dimensions, wall partitions, windows, etc.

  • Interior Elevations: Dimensioned elevations of the kitchen and bathrooms designating sizes and placement of all cabinetry, appliances, wall niches, fixtures, etc. following NKBA standards

  • Roof Plan(s): Diagram designating roof pitch for all roof surfaces.  Roof framing plan showing spacing for trusses and/or rafters.

  • Cross section: A vertical cutaway view of the house from roof to foundation showing details of framing, construction, flooring and roofing.

  • Electrical Plan: Dimensioned plan, drawn to 1/4" scale showing placement of all electrical outlets and switches.
  • Sections and Details: Drawings showing placement and measurements of exterior and interior architectural details such as molding profiles, etc.
  • Schedules: A separate listing of door, window, cabinet, and electrical items used and their individual details, such as dimensions and model numbers, etc.

Reproducible print vs. PDF option?

Neither!  Our plans allow you to make as many copies as needed to construct one home.  We know that building a home is expensive and depending on where you plan to build your home there may be requirements you never thought of that add to that expense.  Our goal is to make the process of choosing your perfect dream home affordable.

Do you offer study plans?

No.  We price our plans knowing that more than likely you will need to have them changed or redrawn.

Can I make copies of the plans?

Yes!  Make as many copies as you need to complete the construction of one home.

CUSTOMER SERVICE

What is the exchange policy?

Find out you can't build your purchased plan?  Decide your purchased plan will not suit your needs.  Did you discover that you're just not that into your purchased plan anymore?  No problem!  Contact support below.  We'll be more than happy to exchange your plans for another set.  Change happens and we're here to make the process of choosing your perfect home design as affordable as possible.

What are your shipping options?

To keep costs down, we do not offer shipping of physical plans at this time.  There are several options for having your plans printed on full sized paper and mailed to you from your printer of choice.  Search for printers in your area.

Is there a time limit for using my house plan?

Not at all!  Take all the time you need.

What methods of payment do you accept?

We accept VISA, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, PayPal, Apple Pay.  If you prefer to send a physical check please contact support below.

CONTACT SUPPORT

How can we help?

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