Document Type
Honors Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences
Date of Award
Spring 4-15-2026
Abstract
Residential building construction is an essential part of a country’s economy and development. Finding ways to improve aspects of residential building construction can greatly impact the performance and sustainability of residential buildings. This study analyzes the plans for residential building construction in the United States and Mexico. The processes, systems, and materials in each country were investigated to form comparisons between the two countries. Journals and articles containing data on residential building construction in each country were used to gather information on each area of study. Factors such as climate, economy, and politics were also considered as they have direct effects on how residential building construction is performed. The literature reviewed in this study suggests that in terms of processes, there is more variety in the plans proposed by the United States. These plans include innovative practices like 3D printed concrete homes. Mexico showed a focus on improving current construction processes in order to build residential buildings that are safer and more resilient given Mexico’s seismic activity. Both countries shared an emphasis on creating HVAC systems for residential buildings that are more energy efficient, lower in cost, and safer for the surrounding environment. Plans for construction materials to be used in Mexico had a greater emphasis on their performance under Mexico’s climate while the plans for materials in the United States showed a desire to incorporate newer technologies. The findings in this study could provide other countries with insight into how two different countries plan to improve the way they perform residential building construction.
Advisor
Ayman Elzohairy
Recommended Citation
Hernandez, Juan, "A Comparative Study of Plans for Residential Building Construction in the United States and Mexico: Analysis of Processes, Systems, and Materials" (2026). Honors Theses. 290.
https://lair.etamu.edu/honorstheses/290
