R-Value Homes - West Michigan

10/13/2026

A bank will tell you how much it may lend you.

That doesn’t mean you should spend that much.

A realistic custom home budget should account for the whole project and still leave room for the rest of your life.

Before you design the house, know what you’re actually comfortable investing.

https://www.rvaluehomes.com/blog/how-to-set-realistic-budget-custom-home-west-michigan

10/12/2026

We're ready to pour this barndo built better.
What makes it better?
ICF construction means no future rotting posts, no open wall cavities for pests, moisture, and mold. This disaster resistant home will stand up to just about anything nature can throw at it.

What is the coolest feature?
-the walk-in refrigerator
-the 12' tall six-stall garage
-The vaulted ceilings

Alleguard Giraffe ICF Bracing

Looking to build? We only take on a few projects at a time (so we can deliver the very best experience) so reach out now if you're planning to start in the next 8 - 24 months.

Airtight and Ventilated Right, Guaranteed!

10/12/2026

It is the little things that make a difference over the long term.

Here the ducting and air handler is elevated off the drain pan using these composite bricks.
Why does that matter? If and when there is ever any liquid in that drain pan, we don't want it to corrode the ducting.

You also see metal stud interior framing. These walls are ultra-straight, will not warp, will not have any nail pops, and will not ever grow mold.

Want a durable, low maintenance home in West Michigan? We're here to help!

Dan Postema
A1Mechanical

10/09/2026

Have you heard of these?

Highly recommend installing a whole home water monitor and shut off on your next build!

It can sense the minute you have a leak and it will shut off the water supply.

Add it to your list for peace of mind!

Building high-performance homes of uncompromising health, comfort and durability in West Michigan for over 20 years!

10/08/2026

A glossy brochure or a slick website is one thing, but true reputation is built over years of showing up, solving problems, and standing behind your work. When you choose a builder, you’re not just hiring them for the months of construction. You’re trusting them to be there for you, long after the keys are handed over.

For more tips on how to choose the best custom home builder, read our full blog on our website!
https://www.rvaluehomes.com/blog/factors-to-consider-home-builder

10/02/2026

Cardboard??

The short answer is that it prevents ice dams. The cardboard is spaced a couple inches from roof and prevents the insulation from contacting the roof. If the insulation is touching, it can melt the snow.

If there is not enough insulation, the heat will go through and melt the snow.

The cardboard allows air to flow above the insulation and keep the ice from melting.

09/26/2026

Ready to plan your dream home?

Our Custom Home Cost Guide takes the guesswork out of budgeting and helps you make informed decisions.

Discover what it really takes to bring your vision to life with confidence and clarity.

- Learn the average costs for custom homes in West Michigan
- Get tips to maximize your budget without compromising quality
- Understand the factors that influence custom home costs

We created this free guide as an honest answer to one of the biggest questions we get.

Read it today: https://www.rvaluehomes.com/custom-home-pricing-guide

09/26/2026

Most people hear “passive solar” and immediately think about using sunlight to heat a home in the winter. But did you know passive solar design can also help keep a home cool in the summer?

I recorded this in one of the hottest weeks of July in my own home.

Check it out and let me know if you have any questions!

Most people hear “passive solar” and immediately think about using ...

09/25/2026

❌ Concrete homes and homes built with insulating concrete forms (ICF) are not the same.

There isn’t a single gap in the insulation in any of the homes we build. Continuous insulation on the outside, inside, under the floors, on the ceiling, all touching each other.

You might think concrete walls are cold because you have been in concrete buildings that are cold. Concrete holds on to temperature. So if we never let it get cold in the first place, it doesn’t matter what the weather is like outside!

So are concrete homes cold? Maybe if they are built without insulation, or if the insulation is in the wrong spot - but not our homes!