When starting a new construction project, one of the first critical decisions is whether to hire an architect or a draftsman. Both play essential roles in the building process, but their approaches, costs, and involvement differ significantly. To better understand these differences, we spoke with experienced builder Jim Wilson to get his insights on the pros and cons of each option.
The Architect Approach
“An architect will take it from zero and design something for you based on what you’re telling him,” Jim explains. “Most architects want to do everything that they want to do, and they don’t want to listen to you. And they’re more expensive.”
Architects are trained to create unique designs that cater to both aesthetic and functional needs. They take into account zoning laws, environmental factors, and long-term usability. However, the downside is cost—architects typically charge significantly more than draftsmen. Additionally, homeowners sometimes struggle with architects who prioritize their own vision over the client’s preferences.
Chris Wilson, who acted as his own general contractor, echoed this concern: “So basically, the architect can take you from zero to everything you need and make it potentially very simple… however, you’re going to pay for it, right? And you might not get the things you want because they have a certain vision.”
The Draftsman Approach
On the other hand, a draftsman focuses on translating existing concepts into detailed technical drawings. “A draftsman will take a plan that you like, say off the computer or out of a book, or a house you saw somewhere, and they’ll draw it per your instructions,” Jim explains.
Draftsmen are often the more budget-friendly option. They do not design from scratch but work from a predetermined concept. However, the challenge lies in finding a skilled draftsman who understands your vision well enough to create a plan that truly fits your needs.
What About Engineering?
Regardless of whether you choose an architect or a draftsman, a structural engineer is often needed to ensure the plans meet safety requirements. “Once they give you a set of plans that have the concept, then a structural engineer will draw to make sure it stands up—wind loads, second story, live loads, roof loads, shear, all that stuff,” Jim explains.
Do You Need a Full Set of Plans for a Remodel?
If you’re working on a remodel rather than a new build, the necessity of a full set of plans varies. “For a remodel, you may not need a set of plans. You may need sketches and very, very detailed notes and a scope of work instead,” Jim advises. A good remodel plan should include every detail, from baseboards to lighting placement.
Being Your Own General Contractor (GC) vs. Hiring One
More homeowners are considering acting as their own general contractors to save costs, but this decision comes with challenges. “The only way you could be your own GC is if you’ve done something like this before,” Jim warns. “If you’ve never done that before, you can’t be your own GC—it’s really hard.” The primary risks include dealing with unreliable subcontractors and managing scheduling effectively.
“If you have a good sub, they’ll be perfect for you. If you have a mediocre sub, it’s possible they could take advantage of you. If you have a poor sub, you’re gonna end up with a poor project,” Jim states bluntly.
One of the most crucial financial mistakes DIY GCs make is paying too much upfront. “You never pay for anything upfront when it comes to this. You can pay once they move equipment on the job and start digging, or you see a big pile of lumber there, but never a 50% down payment. You might never see them again,” Jim warns.
How to Choose a Good General Contractor
For those opting to hire a GC, references and previous work matter the most. “Talk to the people that they’ve done work for. Go look at the jobs that they’ve done,” Jim suggests. Additionally, checking the relationships between a GC and their subcontractors can provide insight into their reliability.
“Concrete and framing are your two biggest things that will hold up a job. So you want to make sure that general contractor is using good subcontractors,” Jim emphasizes.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between an architect and a draftsman depends on your budget, design needs, and level of involvement in the project. If you want a custom design and can afford it, an architect may be the best choice. If you already have a clear vision and want to save money, a draftsman might be the way to go. Regardless of the route you take, ensuring you have a solid structural plan and a trustworthy team will be key to a successful build.
As Jim wisely puts it, “Money is it. They can say all they want, but it’s your money. You got to protect your money.”
