Hand-off: TECHNICAL Extreme Weather Protection Guarantee

At Step 1 Builders, our definition of a "weatherproof lockup shell" goes far beyond standard residential framing. We build to an extreme weather-tight spec, ensuring your structure is immediately protected against severe Irish Midlands weather and can safely stand open for months without a single drop of water ingress or material degradation.

One of the big concerns is how soon we need to be inside finishing, or when we need to finish the exterior? 

Simply put, if you want to wait it out and take your time building trades and gathering quotes, raising further capital to complete your interior specifications, you have as long as you like. We recommend finishing the roof within 3 months; after that, you can sit back and wait for good weather next year or finish the home in stages. The permit requirements of 60% substantial completion must be executed within 6 months of the permit approval, and will be met with our  Finished Weatherproof Shell.

(Premium Air & Weather Barrier)We do not use standard, low-grade sarking felt that sags, tears, or degrades under UV sunlight.

The Membrane: We wrap your engineered timber roof structure in a heavy-duty, commercial-grade, multi-layer breathable membrane (such as Pro Clima Solitex Plus / Fronta or certified equivalent).

UV & Wind Stability: This industrial membrane is engineered to remain completely exposed to high wind loads, UV rays, and torrential driving rain for up to 3 to 4 months before your slater lays the final tiles.

Thermal Protection: It features an active monolithic polymer layer that pulls internal moisture out of your roof timbers while remaining 100% waterproof from the outside.

Our premium Insulated Concrete Formwork (ICF) blocks are manufactured from dense, high-grade expanded polystyrene (EPS) wrapped around a solid, steel-reinforced concrete core.

Zero Moisture Absorption: Unlike traditional concrete masonry blocks—which act like sponges and suck in winter rain, leading to dampness and frost cracking—raw ICF walls are completely non-porous. They can sit exposed indefinitely to severe rain without a single drop penetrating the interior of the home.

When we install your double- or triple-glazed windows and doors, we do not rely on cheap expanding foam or silicone to block the wind.

The Tape System: Every single building opening is hermetically sealed using premium external airtight and wind-tight window connection tapes (such as SIGA Fentrim or Pro Clima Contega).

Driving Rain Tightness: These flashing tapes bond directly to the ICF face and window frame, achieving a certified driving-rain tightness rating of over 600 Pa. 

Your glazing sills and frames are 100% weather-sealed before we hand over the keys.

At Step 1 Builders, we are committed to ensuring that our clients are completely satisfied with their homes. We have a reputation for delivering exceptional customer service and will work with you every step of the way to ensure that your completed shell is sound, weatherproofed and secure.