Stick-Built
Conventional wood frame construction using dimensional lumber (2x4, 2x6). The dominant structural method for custom homes in the Triangle, used in 90%+ of new residential construction.
Read guideCustom Home Building Glossary: Key Terms for the Triangle, NC
This glossary is a reference for terminology commonly encountered when researching custom home construction in the Triangle. Terms are defined with specific relevance to the North Carolina market and the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill metro area. Each entry with a live link below leads to a full definition page with additional context, comparisons, and related information. Terms marked as "planned" will be published in future updates.
Spec Home
A home built by a builder without a specific buyer committed in advance. The builder selects the design, lot, and finishes, and sells the home during or after construction.
Read guideConstruction Methods
Terms related to how homes are physically constructed.
Stick-Built
A stick-built home is constructed on-site using conventional wood framing with dimensional lumber, primarily 2x4 and 2x6 studs. This is the dominant structural method for custom homes in the Triangle, used in over 90% of new residential construction. Walls, floors, and roof structures are framed piece by piece at the building site by a framing crew.
Read the full definition of stick-built.
Planned entries in this category:
- ICF (Insulated Concrete Forms)
- Modular construction
- Manufactured/mobile home
Project Types
Terms related to the type of custom home project.
Spec Home
A spec home (speculative home) is a home built by a builder without a specific buyer committed in advance. The builder selects the design, lot, and finishes, then sells the home during or after construction. Spec homes are distinct from custom homes, where the buyer directs design decisions, and from production homes, which are part of a planned residential development.
Read the full definition of spec home.
Planned entries in this category:
- Semi-custom home
- Build on your lot (BOYL)
- Teardown and rebuild
- Production home
Regulatory and Process Terms
Terms related to permitting, inspections, and regulatory processes in North Carolina. Understanding these terms is important when navigating the custom home building process in Triangle jurisdictions.
Planned entries:
- Certificate of Occupancy (CO)
- Perc test (percolation test)
- Variance
- Setback
- Easement
Materials and Systems
Terms related to construction materials and building systems used in custom homes. For information on how these materials relate to home design choices in the Triangle, see the design hub.
Planned entries:
- Engineered floor system
- Fiber cement siding
- Spray foam insulation
- Standing seam metal roof
- Conditioned crawl space
Financial Terms
Terms related to financing custom home construction. For a full discussion of construction costs and financing, see the costs hub.
Planned entries:
- Construction loan
- Draw schedule
- Cost-plus contract
- Fixed-price contract
- Allowance