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Builder Why-Prewire
Do you know which amenity is increasing in popularity in new
construction and existing homes? It is technology --- the ability to have
multiple phone lines for the family, teens, and fax – Cable TV which can include
high speed Internet Access – Computer networking giving the home the ability to
share files, printers, and Internet connection between any number of PCs – Home
Theater which includes High Definition capabilities and Surround Sound – and
finally Whole Home Audio/Video allowing the homeowner to access to multiple
audio and video sources throughout the home, including those of the Home
Theater.
Being in the Custom Installation business what we hear over and over from both
builders and homeowners is that “Pre-wiring a home for current and future
technologies is expensive and a luxury only considered for larger homes”. While,
in the past, this may have been true with the proliferation of new technologies
and the drastic drop in prices, pre-wiring a home for “technology” should be
considered a must in all new construction.
We have talked with a number of builders that are hesitant to involve a low
voltage company. Their reasons vary but come down to the following four reasons:
“Not wanting to involve another subcontractor”. Sounds like a good reason, but
what do you do now when it comes time to layout coax and telephone outlets. You
have to meet with both the homeowner to layout the outlets and then with the
electrician to instruct them where the outlets will be placed. A professional
low voltage contractor will normally, include in their price, a meeting with you
to discuss layout, locations, options, and pricing. They should also offer to
meet with the homeowner to discuss what the needs will be, what technology is
available, explain how the system will work, any options they can take advantage
of, and what the builder recommends. Yes, you are involving another
subcontractor, but it reduces the builder level of responsibility, educates the
homeowner, and allows them to make informed choices.
“Rather have the electrician do it since they are already in the home”. Many
electricians offer and can do low voltage wiring. But is this in the best
interest of either the builder or homeowner? reasons for involving a low voltage
contractor. A low voltage contractor will come in after the rough electrical and
design a layout that avoids high voltage lines, electrical panels, and other
“electronically noisy” appliances. Electricians are also inclined to “daisy
chain” the telephone outlets and even, although not as often as in the past,
coax outlets. Professional low voltage contractors will “home run” and terminate
all cables which enhances troubleshooting and provides for future enhancements.
“Do not feel it will enhance the sale of the home”. Building a spec home? Many
builders tell me that most prospective homeowners are more interested in the
kitchen layout, the bathroom tile, or how deep the garage is than any low
voltage wiring that may have been installed. This points back to whoever
installed the low voltage wiring. A professional low voltage contractor will
work with the builder to design the wiring and electronics to be installed in
the spec home. At the same time they will help the builder develop a marketing
plan to promote the systems to prospective buyers, educate the buyers to the
benefits and future capabilities, be available to meet with buyers to explain
the systems and how they work, and even be available during the home warranty
period to resolve issues, misunderstandings, and overall questions regarding the
low voltage systems.
“It will only negatively impact their profit”. I believe nothing could be
further from the truth. A well designed system with predictable costs for
standard offerings and upgrades can open up the door for only increased profits.
A professional low voltage contractor will help the builder develop a marketing
plan that not only explains the systems but also gets the homeowner involved and
even enthusiastic about having “Technological Advanced” low voltage systems in
their home.
What it boils down to is education. Do not try to be an expert on low voltage
systems, but work with a quality low voltage contractor who has the knowledge
and ability to educate you on how low voltage systems work, what the industry
has to offer, how they can enhance the value of your homes, and how low voltage
systems can increase the value and profit margin on every home you build.
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M & J Home Technologies LLC
