Episode 32: Mechanical Rough-Ins – Plumbing, HVAC & Electrical in Custom Home Building

In this episode of Building With Breven, we continue our 7-part mini series breaking down the full process to build a home, step-by-step. Inspired by our most popular episode (Ep. 22), we’re diving deep into Step 4: Mechanical Rough-Ins—a critical stage in home building that happens right after framing and before insulation or drywall.

If you want to understand how to build a home the right way, this is one of the most important (and often misunderstood) phases in the home construction process. Host Steven Byrnes of Breven Homes walks you through the key components of the mechanical rough-in phase, including plumbing, HVAC, electrical, and more.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

🔧 Plumbing Top-Out

• Fixture locations and planning for long-term functionality

• PEX, trunk-and-branch systems, and efficient water distribution

• Sewer line (head) testing and water supply pressure testing

  ❄️ HVAC Rough-In

• Ductwork layout: returns, supplies, plenums, and copper lines

• Condensate drain lines and how the system ties together

• What a duct blast test is and why it matters in custom homes

  ⚡ Electrical Rough-In

• The electrical walk-through with your builder or electrician

• Placement of breaker panels (main and subpanels)

• Visual inspections and planning for future electrical needs

  📡 Low-Voltage Systems

• Smart home prep: speakers, internet, cable, cameras, and media

• Prewiring for security, video doorbells, and future upgrades

  🐜 Bonus: Pest Control

• Why some homeowners install pest control systems in the framing stage

Whether you’re working with a builder or managing your own custom home project, this episode will help you gain the confidence to make the right decisions when it comes to mechanical systems in your future home.

At Breven Homes, we believe knowledge is power—and understanding each stage of home building helps you avoid costly mistakes and build smarter.

🎧 Tune in now to learn how to approach the mechanical phase like a pro and move one step closer to completing your dream home.

🔗 Visit buildingwithbreven.com for checklists, visuals, and more resources on how to build a home.

📱 Follow @brevenhomes on Instagram for behind-the-scenes insights into real home construction projects and expert custom home tips.

Episode 31: Framing, Cornice & Roof Decking – How to Build the Structure of a Custom Home

If you're planning to build a home, understanding the structural phase is essential to successful home building. In this episode of Building With Breven, we continue our 7-part mini series inspired by our most downloaded episode, Ep. 22, diving deeper into Step 3: Framing, Cornice, and Roof Decking.

Knowing how to build a home from the ground up starts with getting the frame right—and this is especially critical for custom homes, where every detail matters.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• What framing, cornice, and roof decking actually include in modern home construction

• Why engineering matters: structural loads, windstorm requirements, and long-term durability

• Choosing between metal framing and wood framing when you build a home

• Smart framing techniques for efficient, sustainable home building (like California corners and 24” OC spacing)

• What “drying in” means and how cornice work ties into windows, soffits, and fascia

• Weatherproofing strategies and exterior insulation best practices (also see Ep. 10)

• Types of roof decking and how they impact your custom home’s performance

Whether you’re hiring a builder or overseeing your own custom home project, this episode will help you better understand how to make smart, cost-effective decisions during one of the most critical phases in the home construction process.

At Breven Homes, we’re committed to helping homeowners like you learn exactly how to build a home with confidence—from concept to completion.

🎧 Tune in now to strengthen your knowledge and take the next step in your home building journey.

🔗 Visit buildingwithbreven.com for free guides and tools to help you plan your dream home.

📱 Follow @brevenhomes on Instagram for visuals, tips, and behind-the-scenes updates on real custom homes in progress.

Episode 30: How to Build a Strong Foundation for Your Custom Home | Step 2 of the Home Building Process

In this episode of Building With Breven, we continue our 7-part mini series breaking down each step of the custom home building process. This week, we take a deep dive into Step 2: Foundation—a critical phase that can make or break your entire home construction project.

If you’re planning to build a home, understanding the foundation phase is essential to avoid costly mistakes and structural issues later on. Host Steven Byrnes and Mike Byrnes of Breven Homes explain everything you need to know about laying a strong, lasting base for your custom home.

• How engineering impacts your home’s foundation

• Checking house orientation and layout before pouring

• The most common types of foundations in home building

• Where to place floor plugs, plumbing, and electrical conduit

• Hot and cold weather precautions for foundation pours

• Ideal foundation heights for custom homes

• Choosing the right type of concrete for your soil and design

• The impact of floor finishes on your foundation plan

• Smart ways to save money when building a foundation

Whether you're just starting to research how to build a home or you're already deep into the home construction process, this episode will give you the expert guidance you need to make confident decisions.

At Breven Homes, we believe the more you understand the home building process, the better your project outcome will be. That’s why we created this special series—to help you gain clarity on what it takes to build a home that lasts.

🎧 Listen now to learn how to build a foundation that supports your vision and your investment.

🔗 Visit buildingwithbreven.com for exclusive resources and tools to help you plan your custom home build.

📱 Follow us on Instagram @brevenhomes for behind-the-scenes tips, project updates, and expert advice on every stage of home building.

In this episode, we cover:

Lot Prep Masterclass: Essential Steps to Prepare Your Land for a Custom Home | Episode 29

In this first episode of our special 7-part series expanding on our most popular episode (Ep. 22), hosts Steven Byrnes & Mike Byrnes take an in-depth look at Lot Preparation, the critical first step in the custom home building process.

You'll learn about:

• Land Surveying & Boundary Identification: Why surveying your lot is crucial.

• Tree Clearing & Site Preparation: Key considerations for effectively clearing your land.

• Scraping the House Pad: Proper techniques to establish a solid foundation.

• Excavation & Basements: Important excavation insights, including considerations for basement builds.

• Drainage & Topography Management: Ensuring proper water runoff and land grading.

• Utilities & Setbacks: Understanding utility placements and building setback requirements.

Whether you're planning your dream custom home or just getting started, this episode will equip you with essential knowledge to avoid costly pitfalls.

Subscribe and visit buildingwithbreven.com for more resources, and follow us on Instagram @brevenhomes for additional custom home insights.

🏡 How Will Tariffs & a Recession Affect Custom Home Building?

In this episode of Building With Breven, we dive into two major economic factors that could shape the custom home-building industry: tariffs and a possible recession. If you're planning to build a home in 2025 or beyond, understanding these trends is critical for budgeting, material costs, and project timelines.

🔍 Key topics we cover:
✅ How rising tariffs could impact the cost of materials like lumber, steel, and imported finishes
✅ The likelihood of a recession and what it means for home financing, interest rates, and demand
✅ Strategies to protect your budget and lock in pricing before costs escalate
✅ What builders and homeowners should prepare for in the coming months

🎧 Whether you're a future homeowner, builder, or investor, this episode gives you the insights needed to navigate uncertainty and make smart decisions.

📲 Subscribe now to stay ahead of the trends in custom home construction!

#CustomHomeBuilding #HomeConstruction #HousingMarket2025 #Tariffs #Recession #HomeBuildingCosts #BuildingWithBreven

Hidden costs in custom home building can surprise homeowners! Don't start construction until you hear this! In this eye-opening episode of "Building With Breven," we reveal the top 4 hidden costs that can blow your custom home budget. From unexpected site work to surprising permit fees, we're uncovering the financial pitfalls that catch many homeowners off guard.

What You'll Learn:

• Why land preparation could cost you up to $50,000 more than you planned
• The truth about permit and impact fees in Central Texas municipalities
• How utility connections can drain your budget (and the $10,000 surprise you need to know about)
• The design changes that could skyrocket your costs mid-construction

Featuring expert insights and real-life examples, this episode is a must-listen for anyone considering building a custom home in Central Texas. Don't let hidden costs derail your dream home project – arm yourself with the knowledge to build smart and stay on budget.Subscribe now and join us as we demystify the custom home building process and help you avoid costly surprises. Your dream home awaits – let's build it right!

#CustomHomeBuildingTips #CentralTexasHomes #HiddenCosts #DreamHomeBuilding #ConstructionBudget

Thinking about building your own custom home? In this episode, we explore whether a DIY custom home build is truly possible and what it takes to succeed. We break down the pros and cons, key skills needed, and potential challenges faced when taking on a project of this scale. From managing permits and contractors to budgeting and design, find out if going the DIY route is right for you—or if hiring professionals is the smarter choice.

Keywords: DIY custom home build, build your own home, custom home project, DIY home building challenges, self-build home, home construction advice, manage home build, home building skills, hiring contractors vs DIY, custom home tips.

Ready to move into your dream home sooner? In this episode, we reveal expert tips and insider strategies to help you fast-track your custom home build without sacrificing quality. Discover how to streamline the pre-construction and construction processes, avoid common delays, and make smart decisions that can cut your build time by up to 40%. Whether you're a first-time homeowner or a seasoned pro, these actionable insights will help you bring your vision to life faster and more efficiently. Tune in to learn how to navigate key decisions, optimize your build, and get your custom home project completed on schedule!

Learn from the mistakes of others! In this episode, we delve into the story of a failed custom home build, highlighting the common pitfalls and challenges that led to its downfall. Hear firsthand accounts of budget overruns, contractor issues, design flaws, and more. Discover the crucial takeaways and practical advice to help you avoid these mistakes in your own custom home project. Tune in to ensure your dream home becomes a reality, not a nightmare.

Keywords: failed custom home build, custom home pitfalls, home building challenges, budget overruns, contractor issues, design flaws, home building advice, avoid home build mistakes, custom home project tips, successful home construction.

Are you planning a new custom home build? Discover the must-have smart home features that will transform your living experience! In this episode, we explore the top 10 smart home technologies to integrate into your new home design. From automated lighting and security systems to energy-efficient solutions and smart kitchens, we cover the latest innovations that bring convenience, safety, and efficiency to your everyday life. Tune in for expert insights, practical tips, and a vision of the ultimate smart home. Don't miss out on creating a home that’s future-ready!

Keywords: smart home features, custom home build, automated lighting, smart security, energy-efficient home, smart kitchen, home automation, future-ready home, new home design, top smart technologies.