Questions on Home Theater Construction

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Originally Posted by Trix

As far as your builder "not doing any special construction" in terms of dedicated 20A lines and receptacles, the question you should seriously consider is asking "Why not?", followed by "Can I have an electrical contractor come and do said work before you put up the drywall?"

I know that a lot of contractors hate bringing in outside work, but in this case, your contractor is completely ignoring what it is that you want; this seems completely ridiculous. It appears that you know how much of a nightmare retrofitting can be; don't let yourself be forced to have to go through with it. If the contractor doesn't want to do it, that's fine. But the contractor should never tell you that that kind of work can only be done after they are done. Either they build it right, or they don't interfere with what you want. Is that really too demanding?

As for the weight issue, I suspect that the contractor is right. Still, I would go over everything with the contractor again, listing exactly how much weight will be where on the floor. Heck, bring in a structural engineer if you want absolute certainty; it cannot hurt.

Other than that, best of luck. I hope this turns into the dream it should.

Hi Trix,

Unfortunately it is Pulte Homes' practice not to do any additional work beyond what they have as options (they are not custom home builders) and they will not allow any outside contractor work done to their homes until they are completed and the buyer closes on the property. Those are their requirements that you either live with or you do not purchase their homes.

Rich