Better Under Construction

Better Under Construction “progress is not achieved by luck or accident, but by working on your craft daily” - Epictetus

Better Under Construction is a full-service residential construction and renovation company, committed to transforming homes and properties into functional and aesthetically appealing spaces. Specializing in custom carpentry, home renovations, and structural improvements, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality craftsmanship, innovative designs, and cost-effective solutions. Our mission is t

o build resilient, sustainable environments while providing exceptional service from start to finish. We're committed to client satisfaction, offering clear communication, reliable timelines, and a dedication to improving the communities we serve. Joel Davie is the Director and Founder of Better Under Construction. With a Red Seal in Carpentry and a Project Management Certificate, ​Joel understands the importance of quality workmanship and ​attention to detail. His commitment towards precision and accuracy ​ensures desirable outcomes, surpassing client expectations. During his apprenticeship, he spent the first 6 years of his ​professional career working on a variety of reputable commercial ​redevelopment projects including : Vancouver International Airport, ​Canada Post Office (Amazon Hub), Vancouver General & Surrey ​Memorial Hospital, BC Hydro Offices, Abbotsford Law Courts and ​various malls including Oakridge, Brentwood and Lougheed. After completing his apprenticeship Joel moved to the Sunshine ​Coast for 2 years to build custom homes and during that time, ​developed a dream of of building a self-sufficient house of his own. Joel advocates for longevity and encourages sustainable ​construction, energy-efficient housing, resource-friendly practices ​and cultivating resilient communities. His strategy towards being ​intentional as for how he creates, along with his objective to build ​purposefully, generates support for various community-driven ​foundations. When Joel clocks out at the end of the day, he enjoys decompressing ​and embracing life’s simple pleasures — playing the custom guitars ​he built, taking his rescued golden retriever swimming and taking ​advantage of the health benefits that come with cold plunging and ​using saunas.

Bathroom Renovation – The Benefits of Herringbone Tile ⤵1. Visual AppealThe angled pattern adds movement and texture to ...
03/13/2026

Bathroom Renovation – The Benefits of Herringbone Tile ⤵

1. Visual Appeal
The angled pattern adds movement and texture to the wall which turns simple tile into a focal point.

2. Timeless Design
Herringbone has been used in architecture for centuries, which makes it a classic choice that works in both modern and traditional bathrooms

3. Makes the Space Feel Larger
The directional pattern draws the eye upward and across the wall which helps smaller bathrooms feel more open.

4. Adds Depth and Texture
Even with a single tile color, the pattern creates depth through light and shadow across the angled layout.

Benefits of an Energy Efficient Fireplace & Surround ⤵1. Lower Energy CostsHigh efficiency fireplaces produce more heat ...
03/13/2026

Benefits of an Energy Efficient Fireplace & Surround ⤵

1. Lower Energy Costs

High efficiency fireplaces produce more heat while using less fuel.

2. Architectural Features

A custom fireplace surround turns a basic wall into a statement piece as it’s a main focal point of the room.

3. Better Comfort & Warmth

Energy efficient fireplaces distribute heat effectively to create a cozy atmosphere.

4. Smart Convenience

Modern units often include remote controls, thermostats, and programmable settings.

5. Adds Home Value

A well designed fireplace upgrade remains one of the most desirable features for homeowners.

5 Benefits of Quality Cabinetry ⤵1. Storage & Organization~ Well designed cabinetry utilizes deep drawers and wide cabin...
03/13/2026

5 Benefits of Quality Cabinetry ⤵

1. Storage & Organization

~ Well designed cabinetry utilizes deep drawers and wide cabinets to allow homeowners to maximize their available space.

2. Clean & Seamless Design

~ Quality cabinetry creates a clean, cohesive look that ties the entire kitchen together.

3. Improved Functionality

~ Features like soft close drawers and hinges improve how the kitchen functions day to day.

4. Adds Value to the Home

~Cabinetry is one of the most noticeable elements in a kitchen renovation and if done correctly can increase the overall value of the home.

My Favourite Door & Moulding Combination ⤵️• 1/2” x 4” Baseboard • 5/8” x 3 1/4” Casing • 11/16” x 4” Head Casing • 3/4”...
02/10/2026

My Favourite Door & Moulding Combination ⤵️

• 1/2” x 4” Baseboard
• 5/8” x 3 1/4” Casing
• 11/16” x 4” Head Casing
• 3/4” x 1 1/4” Head Casing Trim

This combination allows for a smooth and clean transition from baseboard to casing. With each transition being 1/8” proud, it makes finishing a breeze and is visually pleasing.

💥 Finished with

02/10/2026

💥WHAT A YEAR

It’s a little late for a 2025 recap, but better late than never.

To my clients, subcontractors, and the other tradespeople I’ve had the pleasure of working with—thank you. I couldn’t be more grateful for the trust you’ve placed in me.

When I first started this company, I noticed three main traits in most thriving businesses: pride in craftsmanship, transparency, and going above and beyond.

This inspired me to incorporate variations of these traits into Better Under Construction, as non negotiables :

1. Delivering a product I can truly stand behind.
2. Being honest and transparent with my customers.
3. Giving back to the place we all call home.

I’m proud to share that because of the continued support, I was able to donate $960 to several organizations doing vital work in our community.

Every job completed helped contribute to the following foundations:

~ BC Children’s Hospital
~ Big Brothers Big Sisters
~ First Responders Children’s
~ Covenant House Vancouver
~ Heads Up Guys
~ Canucks Autism Network

Thank you! I’m excited to see what 2026 has in store.





The Installation Process: From Rough to Refined ⤵Exterior Wall Framing: Two exterior walls were framed to accomodate the...
02/08/2026

The Installation Process: From Rough to Refined ⤵

Exterior Wall Framing:
Two exterior walls were framed to accomodate the window and door rough opening. The walls were stood and sheathed. (2x4 construction)

Window and Door Installation:
The door was installed on the bottom plate to accommodate the finish floor and the duradeck detail on the exterior. The window was installed with sealant / flashing tape on the top and sides.

Building Envelope:
The exterior was wrapped with building paper and taped on every seam taped to create a continuous weather barrier. This is the main line of defense for keeping the structure dry and protected from the elements.

Insulation and V***r Barrier:
The studs and rafter cavities were insulated as per BC Building Code Specifications along with the door and window. V***r barrier was installed on the portions of the exterior walls with acoustic sealant and each staple pe*******on was patched with tuct tape.

Drywall:
1/2” drywall was hung on the walls with 5/8” on the ceiling. The boards were taped and finished.

Tile:
Floor preparation took place and tiles were laid strategically from centre using grout and spacers. Once the compound cured it was followed up by grout.

Trim:
The casings and baseboards went in last to clean up the transitions between the walls and floors. I prefer to pre paint any trim prior to installing and used instant bond glue on any of the mitres.





Winder Staircases - Why These Types of Stairs Are Uncommon ⤵_______________________________________Space Efficiency vs. ...
10/30/2024

Winder Staircases - Why These Types of Stairs Are Uncommon ⤵
_______________________________________
Space Efficiency vs. Navigation:

~Winder staircases are less common than other types due to the trade-off between space efficiency and ease of navigation.

~While they require less floor space, their stepped turns can make them challenging to navigate, especially for those with mobility issues or those carrying heavy loads.

Safety Standards:

~Winder staircases must comply with safety regulations that vary by country and project type.

~These standards address factors such as stair width, rise and run, and handrail placement.

~Meeting these requirements can be complex, making winder staircases less feasible or cost-effective in some situations.

Aesthetics and Design Flexibility:

~While winder staircases can offer unique aesthetic appeal, they may not suit every design style or architectural plan.

~The stepped turns and curved shapes can be challenging to integrate with surrounding design elements, limiting their use in certain projects.

Practicality and Functionality:

~Winder staircases may not be the most practical choice due to their limited capacity and narrower treads.

~This can make them less suitable for high-traffic areas or applications where multiple users need to ascend or descend simultaneously.

Manufacturing and Installation:

~Winder staircases often require custom manufacturing and installation, increasing costs and complexity compared to traditional designs.

~This may deter some builders and homeowners from choosing winder staircases.
_______________________________________

Custom Carpentry Solutions - 5 Reasons for Custom Building ⤵_______________________________________1. Tailored Design: ~...
10/28/2024

Custom Carpentry Solutions - 5 Reasons for Custom Building ⤵
_______________________________________
1. Tailored Design:

~Custom carpentry allows for personalized designs that fit your specific needs and preferences.

~Whether it’s built-in shelving, cabinets, or furniture, custom pieces can be crafted to match your style and the dimensions of your space.

2. Quality Craftsmanship:

~Custom carpentry is often associated with higher-quality materials and craftsmanship.

~Skilled carpenters take pride in their work, ensuring that each piece is made with attention to detail and built to last, resulting in durable and aesthetically pleasing outcomes.

3. Maximized Space Efficiency:

~Custom carpentry can optimize your available space, especially in areas with unconventional layouts.

~By designing and building furniture or fixtures that fit seamlessly into your environment, you can enhance storage and functionality.

4. Increased Home Value:

~Well-executed custom carpentry can significantly boost the value of your home.

~Unique, high-quality features can attract potential buyers and set your property apart in a competitive market.

5. Sustainable Material Choice:

~When opting for custom carpentry, you can select sustainable materials and finishes that align with your values.

~This choice can contribute to a healthier indoor environment and a reduced environmental impact.
_______________________________________

Roles & Responsibilities of a General Contractor : Defined by WorkSafe BC ⤵_______________________________________WorkSa...
10/28/2024

Roles & Responsibilities of a General Contractor : Defined by WorkSafe BC ⤵
_______________________________________
WorkSafe BC & Liability Insurance:

~General contractors ensure all workers are registered with WorkSafe BC, securing protection and benefits in case of injury.

~Contractors must also have liability insurance to cover job site incidents, protecting both workers and the project.

Safe Work Environment:

~Contractors create a safe environment by assessing risks, implementing safety measures, and providing safety equipment.

Safety Training:

~All workers must receive proper safety training, covering job-specific hazards, safe practices, and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Health & Safety Regulations:

~Contractors must follow all relevant health and safety regulations, such as the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Regulation, ensuring compliance among workers to prevent accidents.

Workplace Inspections:

~Regular inspections identify hazards and ensure safety protocols are followed. Documenting findings and taking corrective action are key to addressing issues.

Injuries & Illness:

~In case of injury or illness, contractors need to report incidents, provide medical help, and document for WorkSafe BC. Investigations are necessary to improve future safety.

Investigations:

~Contractors must engage in investigations of incidents, cooperate with WorkSafe BC, and implement improvements based on findings.
_______________________________________

5 Benefits of Pergolas ⤵_______________________________________1. Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal:~Pergolas add visual interes...
10/23/2024

5 Benefits of Pergolas ⤵
_______________________________________
1. Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal:

~Pergolas add visual interest and architectural beauty to gardens, patios, or backyards.

~They serve as a focal point, complementing the surrounding landscape and enhancing the overall design of outdoor areas.

2. Increased Outdoor Living Space:

~By providing a defined structure, pergolas create an inviting area for relaxation, dining, or entertaining.

~They extend your home’s livable space, making it easier to enjoy the outdoors.

3. Partial Shade and Comfort:

~While pergolas don’t offer complete shade, they provide partial protection from the sun, creating a more comfortable environment for outdoor activities.

~This helps reduce heat in shaded areas, making them ideal for sunny climates.

4. Support for Plants and Vines:

~Pergolas can serve as a support structure for climbing plants and vines, adding greenery and natural beauty to your space.

~This can enhance privacy and create a more tranquil atmosphere as plants flourish around the structure.

5. Increased Property Value:

~Well-designed and constructed pergolas can enhance the overall value of a property.

~They contribute to curb appeal and create an attractive outdoor space, making your home more appealing to potential buyers.
_______________________________________

Address

Langley, BC

Opening Hours

Monday 7am - 7pm
Tuesday 7am - 7pm
Wednesday 7am - 7pm
Thursday 7am - 7pm
Friday 7am - 7pm
Saturday 7am - 7pm

Website

https://hoo.be/betterunderconstruction

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Better Under Construction posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Better Under Construction:

Shortcuts

Share

Category