Construction Consulting Services, Homebuilding & Remodeling

General Construction Process for the building of your New Home

We will outline your timelines and keep you abreast of each stage in the process. This general construction timeline and list of building inspections assists in your understanding of the staging of the homebuilding process.

1. Prepare Site/Pour Foundation: Escavate the basement, install wooden forms to act as the foundation template, and then footings are poured. The space between footings is leveled and then fitted with utility runs. The basement walls are poured and will need time to cure. A waterproofing membrane is then applied to foundation walls. The drains are installed, along with sewer and water taps.

1st Inspection: A city or county inspector will check to verify that the foundation is up to code. Then the builder will begin the framing phase.

2. Rough framing: The skeleton of the house (including the floor systems, walls, and roof systems) are completed. Plywood sheathing is applied to the outer walls and roof. Windows and doors are installed. A house wrap is then put over the sheathing to prevent water from leaking into the structure. The house wrap also allows water vapor to escape, which greatly reduces mold and wood rot.

3. Complete Rough Plumbing, Electrical & HVAC: Once the shell is completed, the siding and roofing will be installed. The electrical and plumbing will be run through interior walls, ceilings, and floors. Sewer lines, vents, and water supply lines for fixtures are installed. Bathtubs and shower/tub units are installed. Heating, ventilation, HVAC system, and furnace ductwork is installed. Vent pipes are installed in the roof. Insulation is installed in floors, walls, and ceilings.

2nd Inspection: Rough framing will be inspected for building code compliance.

3rd Inspection: Plumbing will be inspected for building code compliance.

4th Inspection: Electrical and mechanical systems are inspected for building code compliance.

4. Insulation: Blanket insulation is typical in new-home construction. Options include loose-fill and blown-in insulation, or liquid foam. Liquid foam can fill the smallest cavities, creating an excellent air barrier. Fiberglass and mineral-wool insulation are installed in side walls, attics, floors, crawl spaces, and cathedral ceilings.

5. Interior Finishes: After the drywall is hung, a primer coat of paint is applied after taping is complete. The interior trim is finished, interior doors, baseboards, door casings, window sills, moldings, cabinets, vanities, and fireplace mantels are installed. Walls are painted or wallpapered where applicable.

6. Exterior Finishes: are installed such as brick, stucco, stone, and siding.

7. Driveways & Walkways: Exterior driveways, walkways, and patios are now installed.

8. Flooring & Countertops: Ceramic tile, vinyl, and wood flooring are installed along with countertops.

9. Fixtures: Light fixtures, outlets, and switches are installed, and the electrical panel is completed. HVAC equipment is installed. Sinks, toilets, and faucets are installed. Mirrors and shower doors are installed, and the flooring is finished.

10. Landscaping: Exterior grading is completed. Trees, shrubs, and grass are planted, and exterior landscaping completed.

5th Inspection: Once this final inspection is complete, a certificate of occupancy will be issued. If any defects are found, a follow-up inspection may be scheduled.

Final Walk-through: The builder will walk you through your new home to familiarize you with the features and operation of various systems and components. They will explain warranty coverage and procedures. This is also an opportunity for you to spot issues that need to be corrected.