An evaluation of five wood frame construction systems and other related housing topics as partial solutions directed toward solving the national housing problem

Abstract

The overwhelming majority of homebuilders in the United States use the following wood frame systems or combinations thereof: (l) traditional methods, (2) traditional methods employing purchased components, (3) traditional methods utilizing on-site constructed components, (A) two dimensional panel systems, and (5) three dimensional modules. This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of the systems and make recommendations pertinent to their use by current firms or new firms entering the homebuilding field. Builder surveys and field observations were utilized to synthesize costs for each system if it were to be used to construct each of three hypothetical comparison standard units: a 1,298 SF (120.6 m²) ranch-style house with 2-car garage; a 1,992 SF (185.0 m²) two-story colonial house with 2 -car garage and breezeway; and an eight-unit apartment building consisting of two levels of stacked 912 SF (84.7 m²) apartment units. The systems were evaluated from the viewpoint of survival of the homebuilding firm during periods of reduced demand for housing. Design flexibility of the system, other factors (such as employee skill levels required, materials utilization effectiveness, etc.) and profit maximization were also evaluated. Heavy weighting was given to low break-even points and low levels of production at which pre-tax profits of $200,000 or less would be achieved. Secondary consideration was given to maximization of profits, because of predicted future instability of housing demand..