Do I need an architect?

Having a good plan ensures success. Architects see the big picture when it comes to your project. They help you explore what appeals to you aesthetically and what you require functionally. When architects and builders work together from the earliest stages, the team can better control costs and develop creative solutions to ensure your project is a success.

How much will this cost me per square foot?

Talking about cost relative to square footage is something we are very cautious about. All projects have numerous variables which will affect cost per square foot calculations and can really muddy the water when comparing two projects. For instance, a rural home that may need a water well, septic system, and long utility extensions will have a very different price than the same home built on a City lot where all of that infrastructure is already stubbed in behind the curb. Cost can only be determined by looking at the overall design and specifications for each individual project. E-Terra works closely with the architectural team throughout the design process to help ensure the client’s budget goals are being met.

I see that you do a lot of flat roofs — how do these perform in a snowy climate?

We have to design a roof without slope to withstand the same amount of snow load as a pitched roof. We use commercial-grade EPDM membrane roofs, which are both cost-effective and durable. In our climate, it is actually better to leave snow on the roof to capitalize on its insulating qualities. We experience far less issues with our low slope/flat roofs than pitched roofs. Heavy snow sliding down pitched roofs can potentially damage building elements. More complex roof lines can also create ice-dams, which is another reason why we prefer simpler roof lines. We use tapered insulation underneath the roofing membrane to allow water to drain to internal roof drains, which we typically pipe away from the foundation walls.