Home Construction Step-by-step

Building your dream home can be incredibly exciting, even more so when you have a good understanding of the various phases of home construction. Such an understanding will also allow you to have a good sense of whether things are proceeding as they should. Below is a guide which outlines the basic steps that are followed during home construction.

Step 1: Excavation, site preparation and foundation
Construction typically begins with home site excavation, where your home’s position is staked on the lot and prepped for foundation. This means that the site is cleared of rocks, debris and trees. Wooden frames are put up which serve as a template for foundation. Once the concrete is poured it will need time to cure. Thereafter a waterproofing membrane will be applied to the foundation walls. Drains, sewers, water taps and any other plumbing that need to go into the first floor slab will also be installed.

Step 2: Framing
During this step, the subfloor, walls, and roof structure are built and your rood is shingled. Window and door units are also installed. It is during this time where your house really starts to take shape.

Step 3: Rough mechanics
Rough mechanics refers to the mechanical portions of the building such as heating, air conditioning, plumbing and electric. It is during this phase of construction that these components are installed. Furthermore insulation is installed in the walls and drywall is staged in each room for future installation. The water, gas and electric utilities are also connected at this time. It is important that the builder consult with you at this stage before moving on to step 4, so that you may review the work already done and discuss the work that still needs to be completed.

Step 4: Drywall
The drywall phase entails the separation of the different bedrooms, allowing you to be able to visualise each space. The drywall is hung and taped, and the ceilings are insulated. During this step the builder also begins to install the exterior finishes such as brick, stone and siding. In addition your home site is graded for drainage in preparation for the building of a driveway, a patio etc.

Step 5: Finish
This phase is particularly exciting since you will be able to see some of your selections come to life such as kitchen and bath cabinets, countertops, mirrors, stair rails and other features. Furthermore kitchen appliances and hard flooring are installed and your home is painted.

Step 6: Finish Mechanics
During thus phase the visible portions of the rough mechanics such as faucets, shower heads etc. are installed. Plug covers and light switches are also put into place. Your thermostat, outdoor air/heat pump unit, and register and return covers are installed. Any carpeting will also be done and your yard is finish-graded, seeded or sodded.

Step 7: Finalities
The last stage is for adding any finishing touches and cleaning the place out. You will then do a final walkthrough with the builder during which you will be acquainted with your new home, its features and the operation of various systems and components. You will also be informed of any responsibilities you may have with regards to maintenance and warranty coverage. This is a great opportunity to spot any items that need to be adjusted or corrected so it is important to pay close attention to everything.

Building a home can be a long and complicated operation. Several inspections will also need to be done throughout the process. In addition to providing the materials and manpower, we at Miller Construction work closely with architects and engineers to ensure that everything goes according to plan and that your dream home becomes a reality.