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.