yes, Yes, YEs, and YES!! We haven't even begun building and compared to my hubby - I feel like a complete idiot becuase I have no earthly idea about all the "technical" items anyone is talking about. So, I am right there by your side saying "what???"! ;)

My husband worked in construction (framing and roofing) throughout college so he was definitely more of an "expert" than I was at the start. However, I have more flex time to be at the jobsite than he does during the week. I have found that throughout the last 13 months, I have become extremely proficient in not only the art of building but also the very technical details. A little bit of internet research (this site is an okay starting point for that) can get you pretty up to speed. The last thing I wanted was for my GC or another contractor to not take a concern, question, or request of mine seriously because I misspoke or wasn't fully able to communicate in their language. You will learn to talk the talk! It happens quickly too.

We're OBing. I've never worked in construction but DH has worked in construction though mainly with excavating and utilities. For some areas DH has recommended subs to get estimates from. I usually hire the stubs (after discussing with DH of course!). I research online learning what needs to be done and recommendations on how to do it. Then I put together specs for the estimates and meet on-site with subs to review specs and job-site. I ask the subs lots of questions and recommendations they have. I'm actually the one that hires the subs, does the contracts, payments and lien releases.

You can learn alot online if your willing to spend the time. I WANT to know so I enjoy it. I feel the more I know the better job we will have done.

This is the second house we built so I guess its easier to catch on the second time around. If i dont know something I ask,I hit google and find out what I can,or I come to this site. Plus since we are DIY, Hubby talks nonstop about his lastest projects so I get a construction lesson whether i want it or not. LOL
cyn

Not unusual -- knowledge is usually gained through experience or research, or being around folks who have the knowledge.

I've built 3 houses and was heavily involved in the design. In fact, I totally designed the first house from scratch myself when I was 36 years old (now 53). With each project, I learned more and more. I've also got a technical and research background and also spent quite a few years as a divorced mom. I know how to fix many household things and how things work out of having to do it myself -- or make sure no one was taking advantage of me in doing repairs.

You don't need to know the answer to everything -- but, it is helpful to know where to find the answer through research or asking others with the experience (like the forums).

Cameron

You know you are not knowledgeable when you have to ask questions about abbreviations such as "what is an HVAC"?

Yup, that was me about two months ago. We are still in our planning phase and I am truly inept at the terminology. Hopefully, will be up to snuff at least on general terms by the time we build!