Frequently Asked Questions
Scale Model House FAQs: Custom Home Models, Pricing, Timing & Details
What scale do you recommend to capture the details?
The most popular size for a scale model house is 1:64 scale (about 1/6”), meaning 1 inch of the model represents 6 feet of the actual house. This is the same scale as Matchbox and other scale model die-cast cars which makes it easy and fun to add to a 1:64 scale model. This scale allows for a great deal of detail however makes the model easy enough to display on a shelf or mantle. Although larger scales offer more opportunity for detail, they tend to be a bit difficult to display as they have a larger footprint.
The larger 1:48 (1/4”) scale models are a great choice for smaller actual homes (like 1200 square feet or smaller). The larger 1/4” scale models work well for architects, builders, and contractors for commercial and convention displays.
Another popular size is HO (1:87) scale which is a little smaller than 1:64 and about half the size of 1/4” scale models. This is good for larger home models as they reduce size of the area needed to display.
Keep in mind that smaller scales reduce the level of the finer details. There is an equipment limit to the size of a single price of wood i can cut (12” x 20”) making larger scale models difficult to create like 1:12 dollhouse scale.
I can make 1/2” (1:24) scale models however these have been for smaller homes and Alternate Dwelling Units (ADUs) for contractors and architects.
Does the scale allow for interior details, or is it just the exterior?
Although I only provide exterior models, I rarely glue on the roof for easy access to the interior. The models do have a floor which helps keep the wall square during assembly. On rare occasions I have included plain interior walls however i would need a floor plan or blueprints and these have typically been for contractors or builders and do increate the cost of the finished model. Some customers add interior lights after delivery. I’ve used a solar landscaping light to have the light turn on after sunset however this needs to sit in a window or direct sunlight to recharge the batteries.
What's your pricing structure for custom work?
All my work is custom. I design every wall, door, window, chimney, and other elements unique to your house. Price is based on the time involved in creating each model which clearly can vary widely. Smaller, less complex model prices start around $800, the average model costs around $1800, larger complex models start around $3000.
Can you show me examples of homes you've modeled? (See My Portfolio)
Visit my custom homes page for my portfolio of previous work. Be sure to click on the photos for more details and additional photos of my craftsmanship.
Can you match my house's specific siding, brick, or roofing materials?
Yes! I etch brick into the wood and can match the unique brickwork around doors and windows. I use architectural scale model siding for a realistic look. When creating shingles, I layer each row of laser-cut shingles with an off-set look to mimic real shingles and add depth to the roof. Metal-looking roofs also have a realist 3D look to them.
Can you add specific colors, like my house's paint color?
Yes. Although most of my models use readily available enamel spray paints, I can match Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore specific colors if you provide me with the company’s specific name and number. This is one huge benefit of using real wood instead of 3D-printed plastic.
What level of detail is standard versus an upgrade?
I don’t have multiple levels of detail based on increases in price however I may reduce the level of details to help match your budget. If my quote is $1500 and your budget is $1000, I may take some shortcuts which affect the level of detail provided on your model. If your budget is far too low for me to provide you with a scale model of your home, I may recommend another creator or two for you to contact however you get what you pay for.
How is the model delivered or picked up?
The finished models are securely wrapped in plastic wrap onto a base to prevent movement during shipping. This is then placed in a box and surrounded by shredded paper to protect the model. The model box is then place in another box for shipping as an added layer of protection. I will provide several shipping options (FedEx, UPS, or USPS) and prices for delivery.
What are the dimensions of the finished model?
I can estimate the dimensions of the scale model once I know dimensions of the actual house and surrounding structures you want to include (like pool, patios, hot tubs, garages, and the amount of landscaping surrounding the house and the scale of the model you’re seeking. For a house-only model, I typically add about an inch on all sides but that’s totally up to you.
How much will a model of my specific house cost?
Like your real home, each house varies in price and is based on the effort involved (time), and the amount of materials and laser-time required to complete. Some of the things that add to the effort of a scale model are bricks, complex roof panels with multiple roof pitches, and additions like multi-level decks, pools, pool house, etc. I can provide an estimate once I see photos or plans to determine the effort involved. The average model takes about 4 weeks to design and build and costs around $1500-$1800. I have built large complex models for $8000 and smaller ones for $600. It all depends on the effort involved so let me take a look. Please note, I require a 75% deposit prior to starting any work and shipping is based on the size/weight of the box used for shipping.
How long does it take from start to finish?
It typically take between 4-6 weeks to build a detailed custom scale model. Clearly, more complicated models take longer and vice versa.Check out my process page to see each step involved in creating a custom scale model. Please note, there is usually a waiting list before I can start your project so please check my availability.
What materials do you use (wood, plastic, foam board, metal)?
I laser-cut basswood to create these tiny masterpieces. Wood proves depth and authenticity to the scale homes models I create. I use 1/8” thick basswood for the internal framework of the model and apply the 1/16” thick detailed exterior walls. The exterior walls contain the bricks, siding, stucco, etc details to match your house. They also include the doors and windows. The window “glass” is sandwiched between these 2 layers to give a realistic appearance of glass. I never use plastic or make 3D printed pieces! I use craftsmanship throughout.
Will you include custom features like my unique porch, shutters, or landscaping?
Yes and the more photos you can provide, the more details I can include. Porches, decks, siding, stairs, bricks, sidewalks, and other elements are all custom built to match your unique house. I provide a limited amount of landscaping but can add bushes and grasses to areas surrounding the house.
How accurate can the model be to my actual house's layout?
Although no one can completely, 100% replicate your house I get as accurate as possible especially if provided with accurate measurements and photos of your home. If measurements are unavailable, I can estimate them using standard reference points, like the front door, and extrapolate measurements from there.
How do you handle measurements (do I need to provide them, or do you use plans)?
Preferably, emailing clear blueprints is ideal however physical measurements are great as well. Walking around an existing house with a tape measure and taking photos as you go is the best way to provide me with what I need to create an accurate model. I can only build what I can see.
Do You Provide A Case To Display The Model?
I don’t supply the case but I do have a close relationship with a custom acrylic case supplier if you want your model case-protected. Once I know the exact measurements of the finished model I will provide you with those measurements. You will order and purchase the custom case online and have it shipped to me. Once I receive the case, I will unpack it and carefully insert the finished model then repack the case and have it shipped directly to you. This option does add a bit to the price due to an extra shipping charge OR you can have the case sent to your location and insert the model yourself once both the case and model arrive.
Email Me @
scalemodelhomes@gmail.com
