Preface
Efforts to expand the supply of affordable housing under the HOME Program are constrained by the high cost of new construction and rehabilitation. There are many documented methods for helping to reduce costs in construction projects. Participating Jurisdictions (PJs) in the HOME program can leverage available funding by taking advantage of available cost-saving building technologies and construction techniques to reduce the cost of new construction or rehabilitation.
This model identifies numerous cost-saving opportunities in residential construction, for potential inclusion in HOME activities. It is written for PJ directors and technical staffs, specialists in new construction and rehabilitation, nonprofit housing providers, private-sector builders and remodelers, and others providing services funded directly or indirectly through the HOME program.
Although the specific technologies and construction techniques discussed in this model have been used in many areas of this country, users are advised to consult with local building code authorities concerning the acceptability of specific practices in particular situations.
The HOME program, created under the National Affordable Housing Act of 1990, establishes a national approach to increasing the supply of affordable housing. For more information about this program, visit the HUD website
Cost Saving Technologies
The document provide here provides information about available cost-saving technologies and construction techniques used in projects receiving HOME funding - including both new construction and rehabilitation. Chapter Two includes general information about the development of cost-saving building technologies and construction techniques, and describes them by phase of construction as follows:
- Foundations
- Framing
- Alternatives to lumber and plywood
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- Finishes and trim
- Energy
- Water service
- Sewage disposal
- Land planning
- Site development
Although some of the information is outdated (such as code status), many of the ideas for cost savings provided in this chapter remain applicable to this day.
Matrix of Cost Saving Technologies
Also, the Appendix to this document presents a comprehensive matrix of cost-saving technologies, classifying each according to applicability for single-family homes, multifamily homes, new construction, and rehabilitation.
Prepared for:
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Community Planning and Development, Office of Affordable Housing Programs, HOME Model Series
Prepared by:
The National Association of Home Builders Research Center for the Affordable Housing Research Division, Office of Policy Development and Research, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
36 pages