Artificial intelligence might sound like science fiction, but for builders and contractors, it's rapidly becoming an essential tool reshaping how we construct homes and manage projects. In this eye-opening episode, General Contractor Donnie Blanchard and host Eric Smith demystify AI in construction, showing how it's already transforming job sites across America.

From project planning that creates comprehensive schedules in minutes instead of weeks to autonomous equipment that prevents costly errors, we explore the practical applications that make AI valuable rather than threatening. Imagine drones conducting aerial surveys in hours instead of the months traditional methods would require, or design software generating dozens of custom home options based on your specific requirements.

As Donnie explains, "The key word is instantaneous. You can put your information in there and it will see that house from start to finish in less than a minute." We discuss how AI integrates with everything from documentation management to multi-language communication on diverse job sites, all while acknowledging where human expertise remains irreplaceable.

Perhaps most surprisingly, as AI disrupts other industries, construction might benefit from an influx of tech-skilled workers seeking new career paths. "In my world, people crab all the time about not finding good people," Donnie notes, suggesting that displaced tech workers could find fulfilling careers bringing AI expertise to building trades.

Whether you're a contractor looking to stay competitive or a homeowner curious about how your next building project might leverage these technologies, this conversation offers valuable insights without the technical jargon. As one contractor's wife aptly described it, think of AI as "glorified spellcheck" – it takes what we know and just makes it work faster for us.

Check out thecarolinacontractor.com for more resources on incorporating AI into your building projects and to submit your own questions through our Ask The Contractor feature.

The age-old question of modular versus stick-built construction reveals surprising truths in today's housing market. General contractor Donnie Blanchard brings 20 years of expertise to this deep dive, shattering common misconceptions about both building methods.

Most striking is how the traditional cost advantage of modular homes has virtually disappeared. "The modular home cost is pretty much neck and neck with us," Donnie reveals, noting that on recent quotes, the difference was merely $20,000 – and that's before adding customization options that quickly escalate modular pricing.

Beyond dollars and cents, the fundamental differences become clear. Stick-built construction offers unmatched flexibility, allowing homeowners to make changes throughout the building process as they see their space taking shape. Donnie shares how this hands-on approach incorporates local labor and creates truly personalized homes where walls can be moved and features adjusted even during framing stages.

Modular construction maintains its speed advantage, typically completing in 3-5 months versus 7-12 months for custom homes. However, this comes with significant trade-offs. Many buyers don't realize they'll need to handle their own foundation work, driveway installation, and utility connections – essentially becoming their own contractors for critical aspects of the project.

Quality perceptions get challenged when Donnie shares a personal experience working on a family member's modular home. Despite claims of precision manufacturing, he found walls out of square and design flaws like dormer windows positioned too close to roof lines, creating snow and water intrusion issues. "Every wall was out of square. I had to do so much framing, shimming, trimming... it was not at all what I expected."

Whether you're planning your forever home or considering resale value, this episode provides the insider knowledge needed to make an informed decision about which construction method truly aligns with your priorities, timeline, and vision for your dream home.

Ready to transform your space? Donnie Blanchard kicks off this episode with a roof revival story, sharing how Tyler Dodson from Industrial Softwash completely eliminated ugly algae streaks using an innovative chemical process. As a roofing professional...That endorsement carries weight, for homeowners facing similar issues.

The conversation shifts to the hottest home design trends for 2025, revealing a dramatic pivot from the ubiquitous white farmhouse aesthetic to bold, all-black exteriors. While this monochromatic look might seem extreme, the hosts explore how texture differences between materials create visual interest, with gray emerging as an attractive middle-ground option that prevents homes from looking cookie-cutter.

Flooring choices take center stage as Donnie and his co-host compare pre-finished engineered hardwood versus luxury vinyl plank (LVP), offering practical insights about durability, feel, and cost. This leads to a thoughtful discussion about how our living spaces are evolving, with traditional dining rooms giving way to expanded kitchen islands that accommodate whole families and reflect our more casual entertaining style.

The all-electric home trend continues to gain momentum, with at least one in four new homes now fully electric. The hosts break down why this shift makes sense from both practical and financial perspectives, highlighting how current tax incentives create a "sweet spot" for homeowners considering the switch. For those planning new construction, single-story designs are experiencing a renaissance, offering accessibility benefits that appeal to homeowners of all ages.

Whether you're planning a major renovation or simple updates to your outdoor living space, this episode delivers practical advice from experienced contractors who understand both the technical requirements and lifestyle implications of today's home design trends. Visit thecarolinacontractor.com to see project photos, submit questions, or connect with the hosts about your next home project.