FAQs

What are library plans?

Library plans are sometimes referred to as ‘stock plans’. These are ready made plans based off of past projects. Instead of being shelved, these designs have been made available for direct purchase and download. Library plans are a great option if you would love to work together but perhaps our timelines don’t match up or you have seen a familiar house design shared on our social media that you’re interested in building.

Who can purchase these plans?

These designs are primarily geared towards the North American market (Canada and USA). They can be purchased by home owners, builders, investors — anyone!

What is included with these plans?

When purchasing a library stock plan, you are purchasing a one-time license to the chosen design. You will receive a PDF file and .CAD file. The library plans are a complete set of architectural drawings that communicate the construction details required for building and any trade pricing. Each architectural drawing package will include the following:

  • Foundation plan

  • Floor Plan(s)

  • Elevations

  • Section(s)

  • Typically building details & notes

* Please note that most of these designs are drawn with Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) exterior wall construction. Be sure to read the design description carefully prior to purchase.

What is Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF)?

In simple terms, Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) is a system of form work comprising of a concrete wall sandwiched between rigid insulation on either side. The exterior walls (both foundation and walls above grade) are comprised of individual interlocking styrofoam blocks that are dry-stacked and filled with interior reinforcement prior to being filled with concrete. ICF often is preferred by homeowners for its energy efficiency and durability. It is recommended that purchasers do their own research on ICF prior to purchase of any EMHD library plan design that drawn as ICF. If you prefer to have a design modified from ICF to wood frame construction, it is available for an additional fee. Please reach out to us to begin the conversation!

What is not included with the library plans?

Since these designs are intended for general use within Canada and the USA, the building standards vary as well as the geographical requirements for building. These designs DO NOT include any architectural or engineering stamps, site plans, assemblies or material take-off information.

These designs also DO NOT include any structural information or notations — unless noted otherwise for design purposes. We do not provide mechanical designs or energy calculations.

We do not provide floor or roof truss layouts or drawings. Those can be obtained from a local floor or roof truss manufacturer.

These library plans are intended to be built in a variety of differing climates and regions, therefore it is the responsibility of the purchaser to ensure that the design is modified to ensure your local building standards and practises are met. A local architect, engineer or building professional will be able to assist you.

For designs that are intended to be constructed with ICF forms, be sure to select a structural engineer professional who is proficient with ICF and has experience with working with ICF designs.

What information do I need in order to build?

It is always best to reach out to your local municipality, township or city prior to submitting a building permit application to ensure you meet their requirements.

What information am I responsible for?

The purchaser is responsible to ensure that the purchased library plan design conforms to their local building standards and any coordination to modifying the design to suit those standards. Consulting with a local architect, engineer or building professional will be required and is the responsibility of the purchaser.

As well, please ensure you have read and understand our website terms & conditions | privacy policy prior to purchase.

Is there a refund / exchange policy?

All sales are final and there is no refunds or exchanges available.

Prior to purchase please ensure the design will suit your needs and requirements. Pleases ask all questions pertaining to the design prior to purchase by sending an email to:

hello@elysemccurdyhomedesigns.ca

Do you offer modifications or add-ons to the Library Plans?

Yes! We can make alterations or modifications to the design to further ensure it suits your needs. Please send us an email and we can discuss the pricing and timeline specific to your selected Library Plan.

hello@elysemccurdyhomedesigns.ca