Three Bits of Advice for Tiny Home Builders

Tiny houses are all the craze because millennials and retirees are looking for cost-effectiveness over security. Mobility and cost-savings are two major advantages that motivate tiny home builders to downsize. Without prior construction experience, however, many enthusiasts end up learning the craft as they go. Do proper research before beginning your project, and keep these key tips in mind.

1. Start with a quality trailer.
Many college students and other youngsters are looking for the cheapest possible solution to housing, but it's important to start with a trailer in good condition. People sometimes start with a used RV chassis, even clearing off the original structure themselves. The danger of this approach is that rust spots and wear from use can become problems in the long term. Used trailers can also seem like a bargain, but it's hard for an amateur to guess the trailer's mileage or identify signs of wear and neglect. Areas weakened by rust can be filled in with putty and painted over, leaving the impression of a stable structure. DIY tiny home builders should invest money in a new trailer for a reliable foundation for their project.

2. Reconsider traditional materials and methods.
Many of the traditional materials and methods used by conventional home builders would be inappropriate for a tiny home. Most residences now use drywall for interior walls, but the material is a terrible idea for a home that might be hauled for hundreds of miles down the highway. Even on smooth roads, wind turbulence causes the entire structure to rock and flex, causing huge cracks in materials like drywall. Tile and stone surfaces also add a lot of weight and should be used sparingly, if at all. To stand up to travel on the road, these unique miniature residences need to be relatively light and flexible, especially when compared to their full-sized counterparts.

3. Try to be realistic about your needs.
Couples often underestimate the challenges that come with trying to live together in less than 400 square feet of space. Make sure that your design considerations are realistic when it comes to the things you value, whether that is cooking space or bathroom routines. For example, the compost toilet is a great idea, but it can be nearly impossible to legally empty buckets of human waste in some urban areas. Incorporating modern conveniences can give you the emotional breathing room you may need.

In the end, there are a lot of things to consider before joining the ranks of tiny home builders. Do plenty of research, and make sure to talk to people with real-life experience. Consider attending a conference or meeting with people who have experienced this lifestyle. Most people are happy to share observations from their first-hand experience. It can be a great and fulfilling adventure to construct your abode, but the project is also a big commitment of time and money.

When considering home builders, San Mateo, CA residents visit JPM Construction. Learn more at http://www.jpmconstructs.com/general-contracting/new-homes/.



 By Alfred Ardis


Article Source: Three Bits of Advice for Tiny Home Builders