Texas Hill Country Building Savvy November 2021

November 2021

Texas Hill Country | Homebuilding Industry Publication

DELINEATIONS Premier Hill Country Home Designers

BURNET COUNTY FLOOD NEWS Herb Darling

BUILDING FOR SPECIAL NEEDS Steve Zbranek

Wagner Holak Home Building Stewards

PLAY WHERE YOU BELONG

APPLE ROCK GOLF COURSE | HOLE 10

There is no better time for your family to join the club, create memories and enjoy an abundance of amenities in the secluded Lake & Hill Country. Located in the heart of Texas, The Club at Horseshoe Bay Resort is a sprawling property recognized as a tropical oasis.

FOR MORE DETAILS PLEASE CONTACT MEMBERSHIP AT 830.598.7846 OR MEMBERSHIP@HSBRESORT.COM 2

Building Savvy

SAVVY’S A-LIST A-LIST SAVVY’S Architectural Photography

Air Conditioning Jason Roberts Classic Services AC 210.789.2033 830.358.1499 www.classicairconditioningandwww.jasonroberts.biz heating.com Architecture

Architectural Photographer Delineations Jason Roberts and Associates 830.693.9408 210.789.2033 www.delineations.com www.jasonroberts.biz Banking Building Materials

BMC Hill Country National Bank 512.977.7400 512.756.7363

www.buildwithbmc.com

www.hillcountrynationalbank.com

Guido Companies

Building Materials 210.344.8321

MG Building Materials www.guidoconstruction.com 830.257.2300 www.mgbuildingmaterials.com

Destination Resort

Doors The Club at Horseshoe Bay Resort The Front Door Company 830.598.3917 210.340.3141 www.hsbresort.com www.thefrontdoorco.com

Insulation

Electrician Electrician

Garage Doors Interior Design & Furnishings

Flooring Foam One and Flooring SunnOne Carpets 830.228.5040 210.349.7866 www.sunncarpets.com www.foamoneone.com

Real Estate

Mortgage Company Aligned Mortgage Keller210.874.1630 Williams, River Hill Group 210.844.1542 www.alignedmortgage.com Terry Kemmy

Pest Control Roofing Hollywood-Crawford Accurate Pest Control One Swanky Shop Williamson Roofing 210.494.3434 210.495.0499 830.798.0125 830.798.4371 www.hollywoodcrawford.com www.accuratepest.net

JPIElectric Electric JPI 210.233.6638 210.233.6638

www.jpielectric.com www.jpielectric.com Elevators Home Elevator of Texas Burk Energy Raters 210.340.5702 830.446.2279 www.homeelevator.com Energy Rating

www.oneswankyshop.com

www.williamsonroofing.com

Home Warranties Centricity Hill Country Lighting 727.385.7599

Plumbing Title Diamond Company Plumbing 210.967.6100 Independence Title www.dptexas.com

Lighting

830.257.2425

www.burkenergyraters.com

www.hillcountrylighting.com StrucSure

Fireplace Installations Integrity Fireplace Installations Turn 2 Flooring 210.294.1383

830-624-4450 www.strucsure.com Mortgages

Flooring

First United Mortgage Group

512.560.9550

Insulation Klar Insulation mschepper.firstunitedteam.com 210.296.5499 512.529.7787

www.sunncarpets.com Granite Countertops Accent Granite & Marble

Propane

Cabinetry

830.693.1144

Kohutek Construction

Hill Country Propane Hotchkiss Insurance

www.accentgranite.com

830.997.8621 210.581.0420

Insurance

512.949.7000

512.454.4500

www.independencetitle.com

Roofer Kendall County Roofing 830.331.2650 Window Coverings & Interiors www.kendallcountyroofing.com Custom Creations & Interiors 830.693.8206

Specialty Electronics and Appliances HomeWerks 210.499.5760 www.sanantoniocentralvac.com

www.customcreationsandinteriors.com

www.hiallc.com www.hillcountrypropaneinc.com

Carpentry

Home Technology 210.248.2556 HomeSmart

Painting Lumber and Millwork

Rendi’s Trim Carpentry

325.388.9278

Roddis Painting Lumber Flawless

830.220.1983

www.homesmartanywhere.com

210.226.1426 830.265.0170

Specialty Glass and Mirror B&T Glass 210.656.8507 www.btglassandmirror.com

www.roddislumber.com Luxury Iron Doors and Interiors AMS Group 210.366.0490

Title Company First American Title 817.918.2323 www.firstam.com

DISCLAIMER: Any articles included in this publication and/or opinions

HILL COUNTRY LIGHTING

expressed therein do not necessarily re ect the views of N2 Publishing but remain solely those of the author(s). The paid advertisements contained

within the Building Savvy magazine are not endorsed or recommended by N2 1800-A Broadway, Kerrville, TX 78028

Publishing or the publisher. Therefore, neither N2 Publishing nor the publisher

sales@hillcountryligh�ng.com may be held liable or responsible for business practices of these companies. NOTE: When community events take place, photographers may be present to take photos for that event and they may be used

830 257-2425 in this publication.

4

3

TERRY KEMMY

“ Te r r y i s s o c o rr ei ga itni vael when it comes to advertising properties in i n n o v a t i v e w a y s . We l o v e his creative thinking.”

TERRY KEMMY

Realtor ® terry0372@kw.com 210.844.1542 4

[From The Publisher]

What Will We Be Writing About This Time Next Year?

Despite construction revenues increasing in previous years, net profits in the industry remain slim. Inside, our new column Professional Builders Secrets’ helps analyze why this is so, and we’ve provided a QR code you can scan to get a free copy of the Association of Professional Builders’ Professional Builders’ Secrets To Increasing Margins. One of the answers to increasing the bottom line lies in adopting modern construction technologies.

The rising costs of building materials and the declining workforce open the door for technology to change the home building industry as much as it has already impacted so many other industries. All of the technologies discussed in our Savvy Special Report on Construction Technology exist and are in use on job sites worldwide. Many of them will trickle down to the residential segment of the construction industry very soon.

Home technology gurus have certainly introduced enough to blow our minds over the past decade, even over the past year! I know, I can hear you saying it: “The more ‘smart’ products we add, the harder it becomes for everyone at home to use and enjoy the home.” Rest assured that clever tech entrepreneurs are at work right now on affordable solutions that make it easy for everyone to

RTC

control everything in their homes. Though things tend to be rather complicated at first, even us old dogs will learn the new tricks, eventually adopting all the things that were once futuristic and are now realities of everyday life.

Rendi's Trim Carpentry

You can give yourself a pat on the back for how far we’ve come when you consider that in 1995, Google wasn’t yet a word and social media was still a decade away. In that year, Newsweek published an article

Excellence in Carpentry & Craftsmanship

titled, “Internet? Bah!” against the idea that a “silly digital blip” (the

Rendi Ornelas, Owner

internet) was going to infiltrate and change our lives.

830.220.1983

It’s hard to believe that we are nearing the end of 2021. Who knows what we’ll be writing about a year from now? I wish you and yours a great holiday season just ahead.

Terry Kemmy Publisher 210.844.1542

5

[Burnet County News]

A

by Herb Daring, Director, Burnet County Development Services

s the floodplain administrator in Burnet County’s unincorporated area for the last 25 years, I have seen 3 major (declared) flooding events and countless minor ones. Our office has worked to educate builders, realtors, insurers and homeowners on our many flood prone areas. Our main goal is the protection of life and property in a flood event. When I began this role, I had a “cheese” box handed to me that contained the county’s Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) which designate our Special Flood Hazard Boundary Areas (SFHA).

Making floodplain determinations involved scaling measurements off the FIRMs and going to a property to physically locate flood boundaries. Digital mapping has eliminated that, thankfully, and now you can call our office, give us your address and we can email you a screenshot of that property with a floodplain overlay. We have evolved. There is a FEMA website where you can do the same thing- just search FEMA flood maps.

Since the beginning, elevations certificates (e-certs) provided by a licensed surveyor, engineer or architect have been required by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for insurers to “rate” premiums for structures.

E-certs provide information such as location (flood zone), lowest and highest adjacent grades, machinery/equipment elevations, flood venting, building type and floor elevations.

This information is used to determine the flood insurance premium rate. Homeowners and builders are currently able to take all this information into account and design and build a compliant structure that will receive a preferred rating on flood insurance. Historical data indicates (I am an old guy and I have a lot of this data) that a major flood event has minimal impact on a compliant structure.

6

Through the years, flooding has destroyed older homes while

still trying to process this information and gather more information.

newer construction has survived quite well. However, the NFIP has

The rumor mills are running full steam which is why I’m putting what

operated at a deficit as they have utilized a subsidized rate system

I have discovered out there. I would suggest anyone with a flood

rather than an actuarial rate to make flood insurance affordable.

insurance policy to visit with their agent to see how and if Risk Rate

Their thinking apparently was if they had more properties insured,

2.0 is going to affect their policy. Hopefully the impact is minimal.

the subsidized rates would cover the loses. In 2012, the Biggert-

What can you as builders do?

Waters Act was introduced which pushed the rates to a more actuarial cost. Public uproar caused Biggert-Waters to be repealed

The only advise I can give you now is to contact your flood insurance

and the subsidized rates returned but, the NFIP continues a deficit

agent prior to starting construction. Get a quote before proceeding.

operation.

The government does not require you to carry flood insurance

The NFIP is now introducing Risk Rate 2.0, effective as of October 1,

but your lender can and does. Do not let yourself or your client be

2021. I was not aware of this until a local insurance agent reached

surprised by a large premium at closing. Until we know more, keep

out to me about “their new rating system”. In turn, I have sought help

building compliant structures as we know them. Elevating, using

from the state administrative agency for floodplain management, the

flood resistant materials, venting and elevation certificates to certify

Texas Water Development Board, and have yet to receive a response.

these are ways to protect yourself and your client during a flood

My research into Risk Rate 2.0 has been alarming as there is no

event. Find a knowledgeable flood insurance agent to work with so

guidance I can find on how to build a compliant structure under the

there are no surprises during construction and closing.

new rating system.

As for Burnet County, we will continue doing business the way we

It appears an NFIP contractor has created a “geospatial database”

have always done it. A pre-construction elevation determination,

based on flood zones with premiums based on location rather

pre-pour inspection for slab on grade and a finished construction

than elevation and construction methods. There is some variable

e-cert and inspection at completion. I know you are going to have

information that the insurer enters along with a location to generate

questions, I sure do, so reach out to me at

the premium rate in this system. As this software just went online,

hdarling@burnetcountytexas.org and I will do my best to answer

we do NOT have solid numbers yet, but it APPEARS some premiums

them.

could increase as much as five-fold. Please don’t panic as we are

Photo courtesy of Lifestyle by Stadler

Shop Where The Pros Buy San Antonio | Uvalde | Pleasanton | Corpus Christi | Kerrville

Providing ALL Of Your Building Needs 2202 Memorial Blvd, Kerrville, TX 78028 830.257.2300

MGbuildingmaterials.com 7

[Focus Section]

By Beverly Smirnis

Behind the scenes, NAHB’s The 2021 New American Home® (TNAH) the Control4 system does all the heavy lifting to deliver video and audio signals to the desired TVs and speakers. Control4 wallmounted keypads, multi-room audio systems from Triad and Episode offering professional grade sound and nearly invisible aesthetics with in-ceiling and in-wall speakers, and LG OLED ThinQ TVs paired with Control4 Neeo remotes are some of the smart home technologies from various SnapAV brands have been demonstrated in some of the recent show homes built for the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB)’s International Builders Show. Other SnapAV brands featured in the IBS Show models have included Sunbrite outdoor HD TV and Triad in-ground outdoor speakers, ClareOne security panels and Luma surveillance cameras. Photo courtesy of Jeff Davis Photography.

O

ur title, borrowed from the title of a presentation made at the recent Custom Electronics Design and Installation Association (CEDIA) Expo event,

The Chime Video

aptly describes the all-too-often issues that arise as

Doorbell is the first

consumer demand for smart home technology continues

video doorbell solution

to explode.

designed to leverage all

Oftentimes, the more “smart” products you add, the

of the capabilities of the

harder it becomes for everyone at home to actually use

sophisticated Control4

and enjoy the home. Significant design problems and

OS 3, Control4’s lighting

frustrating user experiences create the desperate need

solutions and the design-

for affordable solutions that make it easy for everyone to

centric NEEO remote

control everything.

line-up.

8

Wall-Smart mounts can be installed into virtually any surface, including drywall and plaster, as well as concrete, brick, wood, marble, glass, and metal to seamlessly integrate tablets, touchscreens, light switches, voice assistants and other networking equipment. Photo, courtesy TYM Homes.

Crestron Home pledges to make the complex simple: The monotonous automatic; the tedious quick. Whatever you want, wherever you are, it’s a tap.

The most common systems, such as entertainment, lighting and shading,

Besides selecting the right integration

and security are built directly into the Crestron Home OS. You can easily add

partner and preferred system, it’s

almost any specialized systems or devices that are not already included on the app, such as kitchen appliances, irrigation systems, and weather stations.

important for the home to have the right

Crestron and the Delos Wellness™ platform work in harmony to bring wellness

infrastructure to support--the right

enhancements, such as dawn simulation, circadian rhythm lighting, and air purification, into the home.

The simplification solution, according to Brilliant™, is a control and automation

switches and plugs, wiring, WIFI capability, etc.

system that transforms any house into an easy-to-use smart home at an unprecedented price point. Brilliant’s goal is to make it feasible for every builder, even builders of entry-level starter homes, to start selling homes with an integrated system of controls, sensors and devices built directly into the walls. Brilliant’s in-wall touchscreen control system is as simple as swapping out a light switch for a Brilliant touchscreen control panel and adding a couple of complementary smart devices like a smart thermostat, video doorbell, smart lock, smart switches, or a garage opener. Brilliant works with the top smart home products in every category including Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Ring, Schlage, Kwikset, Honeywell, and Sonos. Brilliant also makes Smart Dimmer Switches and Smart Plugs. Every Brilliant system includes an all-in-one mobile app to control the home from anywhere.

Wireless protocols such as Zigbee, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth LE have done away with the need to install complex and expensive whole-home electrical systems just to control your smart home system remotely. All you need is a smartphone and a Wi-Fi router. But there are still some key devices you are still going to have to hardwire so you’re your system can communicate with connected heating and air conditioning systems, smart garden sprinklers and irrigation, and the electrical wires running through your ceilings and walls. You’re going to need more than copper

Schneider Electric focuses on addressing the issue that arises due to all

wiring to support fiber internet service benefits, but fiber

the added smart gadgets, homes are on track to become the single-largest

has been complicated and too expensive to install before

consumer of electricity. Its systems are designed to protect the system from

IROVF. It’s “all in one” fiber optic SMART CABLE fits in a ½

surges, while monitoring and increasing efficiency of each and every connected

inch conduit, consolidating all your wires in one. Protected

item. Schneider’s solutions include the Square D Energy Center integrating

in a special sleeve to prevent construction dirt, you just

whole-home surge protection, EV connectivity, a Quik-Connect solar inverter,

pull this cable and you immediately have these features

backup interface module and backup-ready panel. Add Schneider’s Wiser Home

simultaneously: 8K home theater with Dolby, internet fiber

Energy Monitor into the home’s electrical panel and Square D Wiring Devices to

optic speed, loudspeakers, smart home commands, and a

control room lighting and you’ve got a smart system that tracks energy use for

single remote control that controls them.

all electrical devices across the home.

9

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) named Swidget from PropTech the Technology/Educational Service of the Year at the 2020 Global Innovation Awards. Swidget is a unique, patented design that separates the base device (outlet or switch) from the modular smart control insert so you can easily upgrade your functionality as new technologies emerge or your needs change. Swidget outlets and switches are installed “smart ready” and function just like regular plugs until they are paired with one of many Swidget smart inserts.

The modularity and constant innovation make Swidget a winner with the tech, HVAC, and home building industries.

When you are going with wireless control, it’s important to

amenities that deliver convenience, comfort, and efficiency can clash

understand that WiFi mesh is a static system supposed to

with a home’s architectural and interior style. Products from Hide-A-Trim

provide home-wide WiFi coverage through a series of extenders.

and Wall-Smart offer innovative mounting hardware concealing common

But as the demands on the system grow, the response remains

household electronics within wall and ceiling surfaces and are designed

the same and slowdowns and drop-offs occur. Furthermore,

to be compatible with all the leading brand name devices. Hide-A-Trim

while Wi-Fi and Z-Wave are the standard now, tomorrow it’s

perfectly camouflages installed electrical devices offering quick and simple

going to be 5G and Wi-Fi 6. Plume HomePass® is designed

installation for electricians and carpenters. Wall-Smart’s mounts recess

to resolve the issue of today’s homes that are stuck with

into standard stud bays and ceiling joists for a flush appearance can be

yesterday’s WiFi. The HomePass ADAPT system uses AI and

finished with drywall or a low-profile, paintable or material-matchable

machine learning to map WiFi channels and usage around your

bezel. Retrofittable white and black finished bezels are available, too.

home, learning from your connection patterns to distribute WIFi perfectly, at any time. Simply plug in the tri-band SuperPod hardware with WiFi 6, which can replace your router if you choose, and connect to the HomePass app. Since HomePass is cloud-powered, features and updates install automatically.

The bottom line: There’s no cutting corners when designing a ‘smart’ home. Faulty technology that doesn’t work will leave your clients frustrated and regretful and your reputation tarnished. Partner with a

Be aware that technology in the home environment has also

home tech company that knows the importance of a strong foundation

become an open portal for personal and corporate cybercrime.

for any budget and can deliver it with confidence.

Many IoT devices have less sophisticated security mechanisms than the average computer outfitted with a firewall and antivirus software. It’s recommended that you check permissions for apps that control IoT hardware and learn to say “no” to

Beverly Smirnis is the co-founder of Building Savvy magazine and publishes

privileges You may also want to consider placing IoT devices

its flagship Dallas/Fort Worth edition. She and her business partner

on a separate Wi-Fi network or band than the computers and

and husband, Steve Smirnis, have served as judges for the International

hardware in your household.

Builders’ Show Best of IBS Awards and judged numerous homes for builders

Finally, it’s important to have a plan for eliminating “wall acne.”

Whether it’s a thermostat, light switch, iPad, surveillance

association parade events across the country. Listen to their Building Savvy Bottom Line podcast on Home Trade Show on iHeartRadio and TV Network.

camera, Wi-Fi access point, or control touchscreen, the same

10

COMPLETE DESIGNER SERVICES Residential | Commercial | New Builds | Remodel Debbie Cherry, ASID Interior Designer Debbie Farr, Designer Beverly McKinney, Designer

Call for Appointment: 830.798.0125 503 Hwy 281 N, Marble Falls, Texas OneSwankyShop.com

Spend your dreams Wisely.

First United Mortgage Group’s One Time Close Construction to Permanent Loan Program provides the foundation for your construction needs to your home. This means that you can move through the steps of construction with peace of mind, knowing that your permanent financing needs are already in place.

A variety of loan terms available, including 30-Year Fixed Rate*

Automated Draw Requests Jumbo & Super Jumbo Programs Available

Allows for the purchase of the lot if not already owned

Matthew Schepper

Mortgage Loan Consultant NMLS# 177669

512-529-7787 matthew.schepper@firstunitedbank.com mschepper.firstunitedteam.com

Member FDIC.

Equal Housing Lender. NMLS# 400025

*Example: Interest rate 3.2% and APR 3.268% is based on loan amount of $915,000, with loan-to-value 80%, 20% down payment, loan amount of $915,000, 360 payments at $3,959.23. The monthly payment amount listed does not include monthly mortgage insurance, taxes, and insurance; actual monthly payments will be greater. First United Bank (NMLS #400025) is a licensed lender in Oklahoma and Texas. The content in this advertisement is for informational purposes only. This is not an offer for extension of credit or commitment to lend. All loans subject to program guidelines and final underwriting approval. Not all applicants qualify. Information and pricing are subject to change at any time and without notice. Copyright © 2021 First United Bank. All Rights Reserved.

11

[From the Trades]

SPRAY FOAM INSULATION CREATES HIGHLY EFFICIENT THERMAL ENVELOPES

By Willy Strasner

T

here are any number of things – from construction

methodologies

to

material

finishes - that will enhance the ROI in a new home: granite countertops; three-car garages; livable, open designs; elegant lighting fixtures;

luxurious bathroom layouts; kitchens appointed with highend appliances; durable flooring, cladding and roofing materials; appealing landscaping and more. While all will provide years of pleasure and comfort, they will only be accretive to the investment when the property is conveyed to the next homeowner.

Resources invested in passive design will save money when active systems, like high efficiency mechanical systems and solar, are added later. This is a consequence of correctly sizing the active systems – HAVC mechanical,

Conversely, one strategy will pay back - not only when the property changes hands – but also while living in the home.

solar, etc. - to match the passive efficiency of the structure.

These are the systems and design methodologies related to

Why?

energy efficiency and utility management. When designing

Because, when the passive systems are more efficient, the active systems

a new home, it makes economic sense to focus on passive

will be smaller and less expensive to purchase and to operate over time.

design strategies first:

Additionally, active systems tend to have significantly shorter operational

1.

Structure orientation on the site relative to natural shading and seasonal sun angle

2.

maintenance regimens and will need to be replaced multiple times over the life of the structure, so….

Shading of windows and doors as a function of architectural design

3.

life spans than passive systems even under manufacturers recommended

And especially the thermal envelope efficiency of the conditioned spaces

Money spent on passive design is money well spent.

There are several effective building systems in the marketplace, such as structural insulated panels (SIPs) and insulated concrete forms (ICFs).

However, spray-in-place polyurethane foam insulation (SPF), used in

12

To be clear, optimal R-value is a critical part of any strategy in all climate zones. But optimal specified performance of the insulating material is not the same as its effective performance.

If heat is transferred through an insulating material like a fiberglass batt by air movement, the “effective” R-value is significantly less than the “specified” optimal R-13 value. An R-13 fiberglass batt might “effectively” perform as an R-6 batt in a drafty, poorly sealed stud cavity when the resistance to conduction characteristics of the fiberglass is compromised by the convection of heat through the material by air movement.

At a given application thickness, say, that of a standard 2X4 stud wall cavity, SPF has roughly the equivalent R-value as conventional insulation materials such as fiberglass and cellulose - R13 for 3.5 inches of open cell foam and R13 for a 3.5 inches of fiberglass batt. And yet, the superior performance efficiency of SPF is not about R-value; in this instance, it is about the air barrier characteristics of the material.

Spray foam is an air barrier; fiberglass, and cellulose are not.

Both could be air barriers if the materials were packed into the stud cavity with a two-pound sledgehammer. But this is not the application process on the job site. With conventional insulation materials, air seal must be achieved by means other than the insulation. Superior air seal can be achieved with conventional insulation systems but only with meticulous workmanship and attention to detail before the insulation is installed.

The Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge Labs estimates that as much as 40% of energy loss in conventionally insulated structures is a result of air-infiltration. Again, R-value is

conjunction with advanced framing concepts, is probably the most

compromised, if air-seal is not effective.

common and cost-effective building way for constructing optimally efficient thermal envelopes in homes.

How much R-value is required and where should it be in the

You may recall from high school physics class the three ways that heat is

envelope?

This varies from one climate zone to the next. The architectural

transferred. Or you may not.

characteristics of the home will also need to be considered.

1.

Conduction: the transfer of heat through solid materials

2.

Convection: the transfer of heat by air movement

3.

Radiation: the transfer of heat by particles or electromagnetic waves

or more than 10 inches of open cell foam. This is an enormous

as with radiant sunlight

cost penalty for the builder/homeowner that can be rectified

The building code “prescribes” hard and fast values for each component in the envelope based on the climate zone. However, the code prescription for spray foam under the roof deck is R38

Energy efficiency strategies are largely a function of managing/mitigating these three phenomena of the natural world.

by an energy rater’s modeling software. A rater’s modeling will be able to decrease the application thickness of the foam to between 6 to 7 inches in most homes in Climate Zones

Most folks get hung up on R-value (resistance to the conduction of heat through solid materials) as being the gold standard of energy efficiency.

The more R, the better, right? Well, not so much.

13

2 & 3 because it is a holistic approach that allows for trade offs between the efficiency of the various components in the thermal envelope.

Understand, if you do not use an energy rater’s modeling, the state of Texas says you must build exactly as the code “prescribes,” even in unincorporated areas! In the case of spray foam under the roof deck of an unvented conditioned attic assembly – R38 or 10+ inches of open cell foam - that is a very expensive proposition. That additional cost for prescriptive code compliance will pay for the services of an energy rater’s modeling several times over.

Whether in the north or south, every structure needs an air-tight envelope in addition to the optimal R-value performance. And this is what spray foam insulation does very effectively. Again, this does not mean that a very efficient wall or roof assembly cannot be constructed with conventional insulation because it can. However, the workmanship and attention to air-sealing detail must be “meticulous” as described in the design criteria definition for the air-infiltration characteristics of a tight home in Air Conditioning

Since the unvented conditioned attic temperature will never be more

Contractors of America (ACCA) Manual J, 8th Edition; Table 5A,

than 6 to 10 degrees warmer in summer or cooler in winter than the

Default Air. Change Values for Three or Four Exposures.

conditioned space, the mechanical equipment will operate in a much less stressful environment. This will not only enhance the system

In Climate Zone 3, where the code prescribed blower door maximum

efficiency but will extend the performance life of the equipment as

is 3 ACH 50, it is challenging to achieve the requisite air-sealing with

well.

conventional insulation materials in the walls and especially at the ceiling plane/floor of the attic. Many builders are not aware that the

Foam is an industrial adhesive and will effectively stay in place under

building code mandates every new home to be blower door tested,

the roof deck. It is very difficult to match the performance longevity

even in unincorporated areas!

of foam at the underside of the roof deck with other conventional insulation application methodologies.

The builder must meticulously seal each seam in every stud cavity, every penetration through the wall/ceiling assemblies, every seam

When left undisturbed, foam will stay in place for the life of the

in the sheathing in a labor-intensive mechanical process that is too

structure. Interrupting the solar heat load at the roof deck is far

often less than effective. Spray foam accomplishes the R-value and

more efficient than allowing the heat to translate into the attic and

the air-seal in a single pass, even in the most challenging locations

build up as it does on a scorching August afternoon in a hot, vented

such as the truss joist/rim band of a two-story home. Few things

unconditioned attic assembly. The reason that the code “prescribes”

are more frustrating and expensive to correct for the builder than not

R38 in Climate Zones 2 and 3 for insulation installed on the attic

achieving the blower door test number required for Energy Star or

floor of a structure is to manage the extreme heat in a conventionally

another energy path modeling certification.

insulated hot, vented unconditioned attic assembly. But because the foam meets the heat load at the roof deck in an unvented

When I was cutting my teeth in the home building business many

conditioned attic assembly, in most cases, application thickness can

moons ago, the old timers would admonish, “the house needs to

be backed off to a R20 to R26 as determined by an energy rater’s

breathe, young man.” Well, as it turns out, houses do not need to

modeling. This is far more efficient than insulation installed on the

breathe; only plants and animals need to breathe, so...

attic floor of a hot, unconditioned vented attic, so…

Build tight and ventilate right. And use an energy rater.

The unvented conditioned attic assembly is the crown jewel of

An unvented conditioned attic assembly constructed with SPF

residential energy efficiency strategy in the air-conditioning heavy,

applied directly to the underside of the roof deck is the second big

hot-humid Climate Zones of the southern United States.

efficiency strategy that is most easily executed with the unique characteristics of spray foam.

About the Author - Willy Strasner is the owner of Foam One-One

This is accomplished by moving the thermal envelop/pressure

Spray Foam Insulation. If you have questions about spray foam

boundary from the floor of the attic to the underside of the roof deck

insulation or need additional information, you may contact him at

and, in doing so, sealing the attic. In the south, mechanical systems

willy@foamoneone.com or visit their web site at

are often located in the attic. By bringing the attic and all the

www.foamoneone.com.

mechanical equipment in the attic - including the ducts - inside the thermal envelope, an enormous energy penalty is negated.

14

Experienced and Seasoned Fleet of Electricians for Home Builders • • • • • •

Full Service Electrical Lighting / Fixtures Low Voltage & Security SONOS Music Systems Outdoor TV's and MORE!

210.233.6638 JPIelectric.com

Totally Connected

830.693.8206

CustomCreationsAndInteriors.com

Blinds | Shades | Shutters Custom Window Treatments & Coverings Exterior Shades & Shutters Area Rugs by Loloi & Surya & Other Accessories Motorized & Cordless for Child Safety Custom Drapery & Bedroom Ensembles Complete Design & Professional Installation

Teresa Carosella, Owner 513 Main St., Marble Falls, TX

15

[Professional Builders’ Secrets] by the Association of Professional Builders (APB)

https://hubs.ly/H0VH1Zm0

HOW A PROFESSIONAL BUILDER PRICES A BUILDING CONTRACT

I

f you are adding a margin to the cost of materials and labor in order to calculate a contract price…then stop right now. Your building company is in serious danger of losing money, especially if you plan on growing.

Where Most Builders Go Wrong Most builders add a nominal markup of say 20% to their cost of sale which gives them a contract

The traditional method of pricing jobs is to apply a margin to the cost of

price to charge the client. When it comes to

sales. The problem with this method is that you are hoping you will make

quoting a larger project, most builders actually

enough profit to cover your overheads and wages—the running costs of

reduce their profit in order to win the job when in

the business. This results in builders making little, or no net profit at the

fact they really need to be increasing the margin

end of the year, despite taking on more work and increasing their revenue.

to cover the additional running costs (overheads

When a building company grows, their net profit margin decreases. Even

and wages).

when they don’t reduce their margin, they can still end up losing money.

It’s the reason why you hear so many builders

How is that possible?

say they were earning more money when they were doing less jobs. It’s also the reason why

Building companies with revenues of less than $6M DO NOT enjoy the same economies of scale as traditional businesses like manufacturing or retailing.

so many building companies run into cash flow problems. And it’s why so many builders end up with nothing to show for decades of hard work.

The good news is that there is an easy solution to the problem.

16

Building companies need to price their jobs using a net margin

APB is a business coaching service for custom home builders in the

instead of gross margin.When you apply a net margin to a

United States, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. The organization

project you are guaranteed to make a profit. But when you

provides tested and proven systems for builders to scale and

apply a gross margin to a project, you are simply hoping to

succeed, based on data, experience, and results. Building Savvy’s

make a profit. That’s fine when your revenue is at a consistent

new series of articles and education seminars will glean from APB’s

level, but when workflow increases and additional resources

vast library of coaching curriculum, and the expertise and experience

are taken on, the amount of fixed costs, as a proportion of the

of the APB team. Topics will range from construction business

contract price, also increases.

coaching to sales training, marketing insights and financials coaching. The goal is to share ideas on how to create a systemized

When that happens, you have 3 problems.

1.

You don’t know what your break-even point is.

2.

Although you are increasing your cash reserves, if you are

residential building company to generate more leads, earn more money for your services and deliver a better client experience.

not making a profit then you’re creating a hidden liability that will get bigger and bigger-- a bit like a giant Ponzi scheme.

3.

To learn more, download the Professional Builders’

You’ll probably end up cutting margins in order to win more

Secrets To Increasing Margins.

work, which only compounds the problem and increases the hidden liability in your building company.

It’s a bit like the Federal Reserve Bank in the US, only no one will be bailing you out. And you may get prosecuted for trading insolvently.

The reason it is so important to grow a building company profitably is because the retained net profit provides the foundations to support a growing business. Without retained net profit you are effectively building a house of cards that will fall over in the next market downturn.

17

[Savvy Builder]

Jennifer Dube (l-r), Cody Torres, John Torres, and Cindy Autrey

WAGNER HOLAK CUSTOM HOMES Gro w i n g T h ro u g h Steward s h ip and S er vice

John Torres loves what he does. He puts his heart and soul into each home his team builds, knowing that for many of his homebuyers they will celebrate and experience all facets of life in those homes for many, many years to come.

A native of San Antonio, Torres (and many of his family and relatives) grew up in the construction trades. His family has been here for hundreds of years, and some even fought and died in the Battle of the Alamo.

18

John’s grandfather, for example, was one of Ray Ellison’s site work

superintendent position he dreamed about years ago as a youngster.

guys, back when Ellison was everywhere. “I remember, as a kid,

John eventually advanced further as a project manager.

working with my dad , moving dirt, site work, and seeing some

Four years ago, with solid experience under his belt and some

important guys rolling around in trucks, in charge of others and I

great business contacts, Torres decided it was time to launch his

knew then that I wanted to run crews in construction.”

own residential construction firm. The name Wagner Holak comes from the maiden names of his wife and his partner’s wife. Torres, a preacher’s son, decided from the start that the founding principles of his company would be on stewardship and service.

“We tell our clients up front that this is a stewardship, not a typical ‘money-first’ business. And the biblical concept of stewardship is simply being accountable and responsible for something that doesn’t belong to us. You see, people trust us with their dreams; they trust us with their forever homes; they trust us with where they will experience life in all its glory, both celebrations and sorrows…and we take that responsibility very seriously.”

Wagner Holak used to also do remodels, but Torres admitted one day that they weren’t that good at it, and decided to stick with their strength in custom home construction.

“I realized as a builder that you just can’t say yes to everything, and be effective.”

Torres and his team have several projects

Torres still went to college, pursuing a business management

underway in Belle Oaks, near Bulverde, and build throughout the Hill

degree. But he always knew he would end up in construction. It

Country and San Antonio. Their homes typically range from $600K

was in his blood. Some people are drawn to professions because

to a little over $1 million. They never build the same home twice,

they love fixing things or solving problems, like a mechanic or

each one is totally unique and custom designed for each buyer.

doctor. Some like to impart wisdom, educate others and watch people blossom. For John Torres the undeniable thrill of creating something from nothing … and have that “nothing” turn into someone’s dream and personal sanctuary…was a lure he could not resist or fight.

“I’ve always had a passion for creating something out of nothing,” says Torres. “It’s both a blessing and a curse because this is a tough business. And there’s no one tougher on me than me. But I like taking on challenges, and I’m driven by creating something beautiful. I look at every piece of dirt as its own unique entity.

Then start to imagine the kind of house that would fit well with the property.”

He went to work for a small custom builder in New Braunfels for four years. Then he jumped into the production world for several years, working his way up through the ranks and attaining that

19

Wagner Holak has a stellar group of tradesmen, partners and suppliers…many of them have literally grown up with John in the business.

Here’s what some of them had to say: “They put their heart into everything they do. These guys work hard to stay on schedule and to get people in their homes on time.”

Angie Hicks – Old Republic Title “What separates John is his passion. He is driven by details, quality, high performing homes and has a unique understanding of each homeowner’s needs. He has a keen understanding of the healthy features and amenities that should be a part of each home.”

Erik Bernal – Elite Water “Communication is key to us. Very important. When they schedule us to go out and work, the job site is usually ready for our crews. That isn’t always the case with other

Many of their homes feature high ceilings and entryways, full home

builders. We really appreciate their professionalism and

automation and a very high-end air and water filtration system that’s

consideration of our guys.”

extremely effective in eliminating allergens and pollens from the home.

Ramiro Zavala – Wilbert’s Power

Wagner Holak’s unique hybrid design model that allows the homeowner to have control over the things that are most important to them, with

“John is resilient…one of the most resilient people I know.

plenty of flexibility in choices of flooring, countertops, cabinets, electrical

I’ve known him quite a while and have seen his ups and

and plumbing fixtures, and appliances.

downs. And there were times when I thought he was done. He’s been very tenacious in this business and is

The key to Wagner Holak’s growth and success (and also an ongoing challenge) is communication. The building climate that Torres and every other builder in the country face is unprecedented and daunting for

now seeing the fruits of his hard work pay off. We are very proud to be one of his partners and we grow along with him.”

obvious reasons such as supply and labor shortages, and escalating

Will Taylor – Taylor Designer Floors

prices for nearly everything.

“They have come into this business full blast. They are

“We all have to continue to reset and redefine expectations,” he adds.

very responsive, very precise and always follow up with

“As an industry we have to do a better job letting our clients know that

their subs and crews. It is a very well-run home building

everything is taking a lot longer than it ever has and to not overpromise

business, and we enjoy working with them because they

on delivery dates or completion dates. Using a tool like Builder Trend

are all down to earth and friendly.”

helps us stay out in front of potential misunderstandings before they snowball into bigger problems and heartaches for our clients. We preach total transparency as the only way to conduct business.”

20

Lonnie Abel – Comfort Screens & Glass

Turn 2 Flooring Residential | Commercial | New Build | Renovation Cori Pearce, Owner 512.560.9550 | turn2flooring@gmail.com 3827 RR 620 S, Bee Cave, TX 78738

WILLIAMSON

ROOFING

At Williamson Roofing we want to do everything possible to build long-term relationships with our clients. We are committed to providing our clients with quality workmanship and products. Our goal at Williamson Roofing is to give you a long-lasting final project. We keep an open communication throughout your project to help the process go smoothly. We install metal, tile, shingles, gutters, chimney shrouds, metal wall panels, and custom sheet metal, along with just about anything else made of metal for the outside of your home or out-buildings. If you’re looking for a roofing company that you can trust, let Williamson Roofing be your go-to source. Send us your plans and we will work hard to exceed your expectations no matter how difficult the job.

METAL

TILE

SHINGLES

RESIDENTIAL

COMMERCIAL

GUTTERS

830.249.7939 Williamsonroofing.com

RICHARD WESTON

830.798.4371 Richard@WilliamsonRoofing.com

21

2315 Commerce St, Marble Falls, TX | 830.693.1144 | AccentGranite.com

22

[Savvy Sponsor ]

DELINEATIONS

J

erome Rugen, owner and lead designer of Delineations, Incorporated, chuckles as he says it, but shrugs a little to belie the truth beneath the words. Texas is now home to Jerome, who moved here in 1987 to work in a division of draftsman for a national stone company. Excited to see the industry progress to computer-aided design (CAD), Jerome began

designing houses part-time, then became a founding partner of Delineations to follow his dream of designing custom homes full-time.

His company, Delineations, began in 1998 and has designed thousands of homes

“It took over 20

in the Hill Country and beyond. Garnering dozens of awards locally and statewide, Delineations strives to provide a wide range of styles, services, and to incorporate

years to become an

the latest products and technologies for its clients. With an eye toward convenience

overnight success.”

when designing a home for what we all do best at home: LIVING.

details, style, and longevity, Delineations always has the heart of the client in mind

23

How they do it

Giving Back

Jerome credits three key aspects of how Delineations does business to its success:

Through the years, Delineations has made it a point

integrity, trust, and relationships. These characteristics overlap and intertwine,

to be involved in local charity projects, often donating

becoming inseparable and forming a foundation that is strong and long-lasting. The

or heavily discounting its services to organizations

integrity shown by the company in all of its dealings, exemplified by accountability,

like Habitat for Humanity, food banks, community

professionalism and great customer service in turn creates an atmosphere of trust

kitchens, mission projects (local and international),

with both clients and contractors. They are confident their needs are met and their

students, and the like. It offers paid internships for

expectations exceeded.

aspiring designers, both high school and college

The staff at Delineations has decades of experience when combined, with diverse backgrounds in construction, CAD-based design, art, administration, various levels of formal education, and a heart for people. All of Delineations’ employees have been with the company for more than five years, with some that have been here almost from the start. Longevity increases trust, and trust is the foundation of a great relationship.

students, and participates in annual Career Day events at the local high school. Delineations has also offered its services to victims of local natural disasters, including floods and wildfires, to help rebuild. Jerome personally encourages his employees to participate in charitable organizations and causes, as well, such as Girl Scouts, Christmas is for Kids,

By far, the “overnight success” of Delineations and Jerome Rugen begins and ends

Project Graduation and many others.

with relationships. Relationships built with both clients and builders are what our business is all about. General contractors in the area know that plans drawn by Delineations come with not only every detail they need to build a beautiful project, but also with stability and a desire to see each project be successful. Jerome makes himself available to answer questions, work through issues that may arise on the jobsite, and find solutions that work. Happy clients make happy builders, and referrals from both are the best kind of advertising.

Recipe for success The longevity and strength of the relationships Jerome builds with clients and contractors also relies on another key aspect: embracing change.

The industry is ever evolving, with new products, materials, technologies, procedures and regulatory requirements constantly improving. Our clients

Did you know?

depend on Jerome to stay on top of those changes, to

One of the most common misconceptions about home design is that it is the easiest part of building home. In fact, it is the most detailed part, because everything that goes into a house is on the paper we provide for every trade. The most thoughtful aspects of a home that make it wonderful to live in are created during the design process, and that’s what we do best. Delineations provides custom home design, wide-format printing, structural engineering, interior and exterior design selections services, shop drawings, and planning services. A “one-stop shop” for home design, Delineations also does light commercial projects, and has a sister company that

overcome obstacles, and serve as an expert guide to get through permitting and construction processes.

He is a calm, capable presence at the table, often finding workable solutions and steering the project to a successful, creative conclusion. In the end, his desire to see owners in beautiful homes they love to live in is the driving force behind the success of Delineations.

does larger commercial and residential projects by a licensed architect.

If you’re in the market to design a home, give Delineations a call at 830.693.9408, visit their website at www.delineations.com to see some of their work. Also look us up on Facebook (facebook.com/DelineationsInc), Instagram (@delineationsinc), and on Houzz.com.

24

Builders | Architects | Home Designers & Clients YOUR RE S IDE NTIAL ENERGY

Serving the Greater San Antonio Area & the

CODE E XPE RTS

Texas Hill Country

RESIDENTIAL DESIGN STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING INTERIOR SELECTIONS WIDEEFORMAT PRINTING

Kevin Burk Owner & Chief Energy Code Consultant

 830-446-2279

Brian Burk Chief of Operations & Energy Code Consultant 

BurkEnergyRaters.com

 830-446-8582

518 MAIN STREET, MARBLE FALLS WWW.DELINEATIONS.COM

 info@BurkEnergyRaters.com

830.693.9408

OUR SERVICES DRYWALL CUSTOM TEXTURES VENETIAN PLASTER NEW CONSTRUCTION

25

RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL FAUX FINISHES INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING

[Builder’s Perspective]

BUILDING A DREAM HOME, FOR EVERYONE!

By Steve Zbranek

A

s I write this article, we continue to be in the middle of the most unusual home-building environment in my career. The demand for new custom homes has continued to increase while the supply of available

Lot Loans | Interim Construction Loans Commercial & Consumer Loans

subcontractors and building materials has decreased. Our lead times are now months versus weeks on some products, and price increase emails arrive in our inboxes daily. For those of us with the staff and energy, it’s an amazing time to be a custom home builder. For others, it can truly become overwhelming.

While we all consider ourselves to be “custom” homebuilders, this might be a good time to examine what “custom” means to our clients. In its most basic definition, it means designing and building a new home, from scratch, on a specific site to meet a family’s needs. Those needs usually include the number of bedrooms, baths, one versus two stories, covered patios, and garage bays, style, etc.

While this covers most of the population, there is another group that might feel left out. Those with special needs are becoming more visible in our society and businesses are improving their models daily to accommodate them. As custom builders, most of us can easily adapt a design or floorplan to be wheelchair friendly with wider doors and hallways, roll-in showers, no steps,

512.756.7363 • HillCountryNationalBank.com

and other obvious adjustments. When clients request these

1210 S. Water (Hwy 281 South), Burnet, TX

features in their homes, plan designers and architects can

NMLS# 407849

include them in a way that is hardly noticeable.

26

As custom home builders, we can go a step further and include many of these details in every home. Able-bodied owners will most likely have a friend or a relative visit that will need more accessibility than our clients. Or, something could cause someone in their family to be on crutches or in a wheelchair for a period of time. More today than before people are taking in elderly parents.

Remodelers across the country are called to “adjust” homes to accommodate these changed circumstances.

As an industry, we can do a better job with our design input for all special needs. Years ago, in San Antonio our firm was one of four approved building companies by the Veterans Administration to accept VA grants to build specially adapted homes for disabled veterans. Under this program, a qualified veteran would receive a grant (sometimes up to $100k) to go towards building a home specifically designed for their particular impairment. We learned so much from these guys (years ago, no ladies then) about what they needed and

challenging. Simple things like lowered light switches raised plugs,

how to help them.

roll-under counters, automatic doors, home automation systems and at least one entry with no steps are a good start. The shelter is a basic

Once we got into it, we adjusted our marketing to welcome

necessity and truthfully, designing and building a custom home to

families with unique home requirements. One of the responses

meet special needs is not difficult. We just need to change our focus

we received was from a family that included parents who could

and work to become better custom builders for everyone.

not hear nor speak. We went from a blank piece of paper to a completed home using their 14-year-old son as a sign language interpreter. This was a remarkable young man and his parents were obviously the best. In the end (before today’s technology) we had a lighting system that would flash one color for the

About the Author - In addition to serving two terms as Chairman of

doorbell, another for their special telephone, and of course red for

the Lake Travis Chamber of Commerce, Steve Zbranek was also the

emergencies. The margin on this home was good and the feeling

Founding Chairman of Leadership Lake Travis, served on the Board of

at the end was one that I remember today, some 500 homes

Directors Lakeway Police Memorial Foundation, and was recognized

later.

as both Business of the Year and Citizen of the Year by the Chamber. A

While we are all busy living and building homes in the new

decorated US Air Force Veteran, Steve is a 42-year Custom Home Builder

“Covid World” this is a great time for some of us to reconsider

in San Antonio, Austin, Horseshoe Bay & the Texas Hill Country. He’s

our building philosophy. Custom automobiles can be designed

a two-time National Master Builder of the Year, was inducted into the

to be safely operated by people without legs. I am a pilot and

Austin Builders “Hall of Honor” and his company Zbranek & Holt Custom

read as often as possible about the latest and greatest things

Homes was recognized three times by the Austin Business Journal

in general aviation. A recent issue of a pilot magazine featured

“Custom Builder of the Year.” Zbranek is also a Past President of both

a Cessna that had reconfigured controls for a pilot without the

the Greater Austin and Greater San Antonio Home Builders Association.

use of his legs. If cars and airplanes can do it, so can we. The

For more information visit www.zhcustomhomes.com.

aging population needs our design help as do the millions of families dealing with some special need that makes their lives

27

[Savvy Special Report]

THE 2025

HOME WingtraOne GEN II, a next-generation VTOL drone that offers industrial reliability and mapping versatility with a new oblique camera configuration for high-quality 3D drone mapping data capture.

W

e’ve talked about how technology has changed the way people buy homes and how they live in their homes, now let’s take a look at how the jobsite of the future will look.

Technology will change the process of buying land, designing community master plans,

and designing home plans. Technology will change the way homes are constructed and the way construction is documented and accomplished.

Here’s a snapshot of what the future holds: Before the land is purchased for our 2025 Home and the master planned neighborhood goes to the drawing board, a drone is used to fly over the land a developer is considering, sending aerial imagery to a data collection app.

During the design process, the use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) software provides space for collaboration. Each design team member can add their piece to the same model --no more multiple versions of a 2D paper drawing. The model evolves immediately as people contribute, streamlining the process and increasing efficiency. BIM also helps with problemsolving in a project’s design and planning stages by automating clash detection. A complete picture of the project is accomplished using virtual reality technology to allow a walk-through of the project before it’s ever built. Job scheduling and budgeting tools are used to reduce expenses and inefficiencies.

28

Data collection app users report more than 20 field and administrative hours saved each week and a 50 percent reduction in data entry errors. –DeviceMagic

A data collection app sends information from the field to all collaborators for review analysis and legal documentation. Daily construction reports, safety assessments, quality inspections, timesheets, punch lists – are all completed on mobile devices, submitting and logging data instantly.

Data collection workflows are automated, so the next step in the job is scheduled.

Submission of one form triggers another form to be sent until a task is completed with

Wearable technologies from

all necessary sign-offs and documentation

VSight include Supported

to prove progress or completion.

Smart Glasses.

Many of the components going into the home are built off-site inside of a factory environment with complete or semi-complete assemblies shipped to the jobsite. On site, Engineering Cementitious

One example of a “modern world” problem is the conflict between

Composite (ECC) or “bendable concrete” uses less cement, while the

drone pilots and regulations designed to protect surveying

small polymer-derived fiber in the mix makes it stronger and more

professionals. The Board of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors

crack-resistant than traditional concrete. Nanomaterials function as

has taken legal action against drone companies in several instances

a substitute for steel reinforcement in structures and foundations.

across various parts of the country, accusing drone pilots of

A 3D printer onsite extrudes various components—both structural

“surveying without a license.” Surveyors would need Federal Aviation

and aesthetic. Aerogel, a foam-like solid that holds its shape despite

Administration approval to fly drones professionally, and drone

being 99.989 percent air, offers two to four times the insulating

operators would need to pass state licensing exams to produce legal

power of traditional fiberglass or foam insulation. Robotic labor

surveys. It certainly makes sense for partnerships to be developed

includes the Australian Hadrian X, capable of completing brickwork

between drone operators and engineering or surveying firms. Until

on a home within 1 to 3 days, laying 1000+ standard bricks per hour.

these partnerships become more commonplace, legal professionals have advised drone pilots providing real estate data to add disclaimers to any data they supply to say, “their maps are not meant to replace surveys that are often needed for mortgages, title insurance, and land

All of the technology mentioned in this article already exists and is

use applications.”

in use on construction sites already. The question is: Which ones will become mainstream and when? Advancements take time to be adapted and are not without challenges.

The bottom line: Tech has disrupted every industry,

Subcontractors and inspectors use technology to deliver and

so it’s no surprise that the construction industry

document faster and more accurate data. Drones inspect hard-

follows suit.

to-reach places. Wearing smart glasses integrated with a remote assistance platform, a site contractor converts visual data into documents, taking photos and videos. He uses voice commands to do all these things and receives back visual instructions or videos with all the steps that need to be performed to complete the installation or repair he is there to do.

29

Specializing in E xceptional Architectural Photography G R A P H I C D E S I G N • C O M M E R C I A L P H OTO G R A P H Y • W E B S I T E D E V E LO P M E N T • V I D E O P R O D U C T I O N

PHOTOGRAPHY • VIDEO PRODUCTION • GRAPHIC DESIGN

Photography & Graphic Design by Jason Roberts has been published in Texas Monthly, Luxury Home Magazine, Cowboys & Indians Magazine, LUXE, The Inspiring Woman Book, San Antonio Woman Magazine, and many other quality periodicals as well as numerous applications for print and electronic media for a wide variety of clients.

Contact me for a quote on your next project:

210.789.2033

www.jasonroberts.biz

Featured image: “My Nest San Antonio Team” realtors, Sandra Gonzalez (left) and Debbie Ortiz de la Peña (right).

Photographed for the “Latina Woman” book by IWB Productions.

30

31

Kohutek Construc�on INC has been crea�ng quality cra�ed

custom cabinetry for custom builders, commercial contractors, architects, designers, and homeowners throughout Central Texas for over 30 years.

Anika@Kohutekconst.com

Specializing in highly efficient thermal envelopes constructed with spray Our product is the baseline for in commercial and Point source self- reliance begins

512.949.7000