[bradreaves2]

The article focuses on macro-level construction techniques and materials.

As an American, the thing I find most unnerving is the low standard of workmanship and materials in 21st century homes of middle-class neighborhoods. Incompetent installation of plumbing, electrical, and HVAC lead to all sorts of problems for the homeowner soon after purchase. Finish materials -- even safety critical ones like railings and bannisters -- are the cheapest possible and need replacing within the first decade of ownership. "Builder-grade" means "barely serviceable."

I bought a house built in the late 1970's -- late enough that there's no lead or asbestos, but early enough that material quality and construction was still decent. The cabinets are original and look new. The trim material throughout is all real wood. It was hit by a tornado before I was born and everything is still solid.

A friend has bought several "newer" houses and is always complaining about how nothing works right and is always breaking. I suggested he look into an older home, but he was priced out in his town. He also was unwilling to exchange home size for build quality like I was.

I'm told that if you hire custom builders you can get better craftsmanship and materials, but it's unclear if good build quality is actually reflected at sale time.