Building Codes Offer Money-Saving Opportunities

PTC's Latin America editor, Fernando Pagés Ruiz, breaks down a piece of his book, Building an Affordable House, focused on how building codes offer alternate—and affordable—paths to safe and code-compliant homes in this short video.

Video transcript:

Do you think building codes are just a pile of complex rules? What if I told you that they're also a treasure map to saving big on construction costs? Yes, codes are getting more complex, but that's where the gold lies. With the right know-how, you can find cost-saving strategies that don't compromise quality.

Cost-Saving Strategy: Gypsum Board Bracing

Take the recent spike in plywood and OSB prices. By adopting the gypsum board bracing method from the International Residential Code, builders can replace traditional sheathing with interior gypsum board, not only meeting code but also cutting costs significantly.

Alternative Foundation Systems

And it doesn't stop there. The code offers alternative foundation systems perfect for different conditions—some even eliminate the need for footings. These aren't just options; they're opportunities to build smarter, saving you a fortune on materials and labor.

Building codes aren't a barrier—they're your best friend for budget-friendly construction. Dive deeper into these secrets and more in my book Building an Affordable House. Let's build your dream home without emptying your wallet.