Gemstone Construction Blog

Trying to decide between a design build firm or an independent architect. Compare cost control, timelines, quality, and team fit so you can choose with confidence.

A clear Sacramento guide to design build. See how one team handles design, permits, pricing, and schedule from first sketch to move in.

Sacramento log home builders guide to timing your log cabin build. Weather, access, inspections, and planning tips that also make sense anywhere you plan to build.

Compare cabins and ADUs for Sacramento lots. Rules, setbacks, size, permits, comfort, and local tips so you can pick the right path with confidence.

No road or power line? See how Sacramento custom home builders plan access, permits, temporary power, and fire safety for remote cabin building sites.

Clear answers on California rules for building near rivers and streams. Setbacks, permits, flood maps, and local tips for Sacramento log home projects.

Five real upgrades that cut Valley power bills and boost comfort. Run your own numbers with the calculator link inside.

Gemstone Construction explains soil tests, tree rules, driveways, and grading that turn a raw NorCal lot into a cabin-ready pad—plus a free cost calculator.

How loud is log home construction, when does it peak, and what can owners do? Clear answers for Northern California log home construction projects.

Wondering if log homes cost more than stick-built? Get the real 2025 numbers and see how location, materials, and design impact your final price per square foot.

Zoning, plan check, and inspection steps in plain English so your California log cabin permit moves from “Received” to “Approved” without painful delays.