From January 30 to February 1, 2026, CAL Expo in Sacramento brought together homeowners, builders, and industry leaders focused on one major topic: ADU building in California. This year, the demand for clear answers was higher than ever. Homeowners weren’t just browsing—they were asking serious questions about ADU permits, costs, timelines, utilities, and how to choose the right ADU builder.
At Global Arch Construction, we attended CAL Expo 2026 as a licensed design-build contractor because homeowners need more than inspiration—they need a real roadmap. We met families and investors from Roseville, Sacramento, and the Bay Area who are ready to build, but want to do it correctly, legally, and efficiently.
If you’re searching for an ADU builder in Roseville, a Sacramento ADU builder, or a Bay Area ADU builder who can guide you from concept to permits to construction—this event proved one thing: 2026 is the year homeowners are moving forward.
Why ADUs Were the #1 Topic at CAL Expo 2026
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) have become one of the most practical housing solutions in California. At the expo, homeowners shared the same goals again and again:
- Create space for parents, adult children, or guests
- Build an in-law unit or private suite
- Generate rental income
- Increase property value without moving
- Use a garage conversion or backyard area efficiently
With housing costs still rising and regulations becoming more supportive, ADU construction is no longer a “future plan.” It’s a real solution happening right now—and ADU builders in Sacramento, Roseville, and the Bay Area are seeing demand grow fast.
Global Arch Construction: A Design-Build ADU Builder (One Team, One Process)
Many homeowners at CAL Expo told us the same frustration: “I don’t know who does what—designer, engineer, permit person, contractor.”
That’s why our approach matters.
Global Arch Construction is a licensed design-build construction company, meaning we manage everything under one roof:
- ADU design & planning
- Engineering coordination
- Permit-ready plans
- City submittals and plan check
- ADU construction and project management
- Final walkthrough and closeout
This design-build process helps reduce delays, avoid miscommunication, and keep your project moving—especially in California markets where permitting and inspections can be complex.
CAL Expo 2026 Booth: Real Conversations With Homeowners Ready to Build
At our booth, we didn’t just show photos—we had real conversations about real properties. Homeowners came from:
- Roseville
- Sacramento
- Rocklin, Lincoln, Granite Bay
- San Francisco and the Bay Area
- And many other Northern California cities
Every homeowner’s ADU plan is different. Some wanted a compact studio. Others wanted a 2-bedroom unit for family. Investors asked about rental layouts and long-term value. CAL Expo gave us the chance to explain options clearly and help people understand what’s realistic for their lot, budget, and timeline.
Workshop Highlight: Educating Homeowners
One of the most important parts of our CAL Expo 2026 participation was the educational workshop led by Alex Colta, Founder of Global Arch Construction.
The workshop focused on homeowner education—walking through the ADU process step-by-step and explaining what to expect, including:
- How ADU building in California actually works (from design to permits to construction)
- What slows projects down during plan check
- How to avoid costly mistakes
- Why accurate measurements and existing conditions matter
- What a realistic ADU timeline looks like
Homeowners asked smart questions, took notes, and stayed after to speak one-on-one. That response confirmed something we strongly believe: educated homeowners make better decisions, and the best ADU projects start with clarity.
ADU Permits in California: What Homeowners Most Wanted to Understand
At CAL Expo 2026, questions about ADU permits came up constantly. Here are the topics homeowners asked about most:
1) How long does the ADU permit process take?
Time depends on the city, the completeness of your submittal, and how fast plan check comments can be addressed.
2) What does “plan check” mean?
Plan check is the city’s review process. If corrections are requested, your team must revise and resubmit until approval.
3) Do I need architectural plans and engineering?
In most cases, yes—especially for structural changes, new construction, or second-story ADUs.
4) Can a design-build ADU builder handle permits?
Yes. A qualified design-build contractor can coordinate design documents and permitting, reducing handoffs and delays.
Types of ADU Projects Homeowners Asked About at CAL Expo
Attached ADU vs Detached ADU
Homeowners often compare these two options:
- Attached ADU: typically lower cost and easier utility connection, but less privacy
- Detached ADU: more privacy and flexible placement, but often higher cost
Garage Conversion ADU
Garage conversions remain one of the most popular approaches when feasible, especially in Sacramento and older Bay Area neighborhoods. Homeowners like them because the structure already exists, which can reduce scope—depending on conditions.
Second-Story ADU / Addition ADU
Some homeowners want a second-story unit above a garage or as part of a larger addition. These projects can be powerful solutions, but they require careful structural planning and a strong permitting strategy.
ADU Construction: What the Building Phase Really Looks Like
Homeowners also wanted to understand what happens after permits.
A typical ADU construction timeline includes:
- Pre-construction setup and site protection
- Demolition (if needed)
- Excavation and foundation (for new builds)
- Framing (walls and roof structure)
- Rough plumbing, electrical, HVAC (MEP)
- Insulation and drywall
- Interior finishes (flooring, cabinets, tile, paint)
- Exterior finishes (stucco/siding, windows, doors)
- Final inspections and closeout
This is where an experienced ADU builder makes a huge difference—because scheduling, inspections, and subcontractor coordination can make or break the timeline.
Why 2026 Is the Best Time to Start ADU Building in California
CAL Expo 2026 confirmed what we’re seeing across Northern California: homeowners are ready.
ADUs are popular because they solve real problems:
- family housing
- rental income
- property value
- flexibility without moving
If you’re thinking about building, the best time to start is when you can plan correctly—before rushing into permits or hiring separate teams that don’t coordinate well.
Looking for an ADU Builder in Roseville, Sacramento, or the Bay Area?
Global Arch Construction is a licensed design-build ADU builder serving Roseville, Sacramento, and the Bay Area, managing the full process:
Design → Permits → ADU Construction → Final Walkthrough
If you visited us at CAL Expo 2026, thank you. If you didn’t, we’d still love to help you understand your options and map out a real plan.
Call Us Today: (916) 205-2454
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