If you have the opportunity to build your own home, you are fortunate. However, it is crucial to follow specific steps to complete this project on time and without too many issues. To make it easier for you, here is a step-by-step guide to the home building process.
Work with a good construction company
Before anything else, you need to find a good contractor. Building a house on your own is possible. However, you risk a lot, especially if you do not understand home-building procedures. A good contractor will help you every step of the way and ensure that your home is built in line with the latest standards.
Nevertheless, we have promised a step-by-step guide and a step-by-step guide you shall receive!
Construction site preparation
The first step is to prepare the construction site. You need to apply for all the permits and get them before the construction starts. Once that is complete, the construction crew will level the site and start working on the foundation.
They will first clear up the site of rock and debris and dig holes for the foundation. Next, they will place wooden frames to create a template for the foundation. If you are planning a basement, they will also create a template for that.
When everything is ready, the concrete is poured into all the holes. It will need some time to cure. One important thing is to use high-quality cement. The foundation needs to be solid and stable.
After the curing is over, a site inspector will visit the property and approve the next stage.
Below is a Home Building Process
Rough framing
During the rough framing phase, the construction crew works on the shell of the house. They will do floors, walls, and the roof. Furthermore, they will apply sheathing to the exterior walls. This is a crucial step because it prevents any liquid from entering the inside of the shell. At the same time, any water vapor from the inside will evaporate and reduce mold creation.
During this phase, consult with the contractor about the best roofing materials. Just like the foundation, the roof needs to stand the test of time.
Plumbing and electrical installations
During the next phase, the plumber and the electrician will finish laying pipes and electrical installations inside the interior walls. This is when the sewer line, water supply lines, and any vents are installed.
They will also work on installing bathtubs and shower units. After everything is done, the crew will finish the ductwork and work on the HVAC system and vent pipes.
Remember that it’s usually best to do the wiring after all of the pipes are installed. It is easier to wrap the wires around the pipes.
After these steps are complete, the inspector will check the framing, electrical installations, plumbing, and mechanical systems.
Installing Insulation
Insulation is crucial for creating a comfortable living space. The most critical part is its R-value, also known as thermal performance. It tells you how well the material resists heat transfer.
The most common insulation materials are cellulose, foam mineral wool, and fiberglass. They are used in the majority of today’s homes. Other insulation materials also include:
- concrete blocks;
- spray foam;
- insulation concrete foam;
- ridged foam or foam board;
- structural insulated panels.
Drywall and interior fixtures
During the next stage, the contractor will apply drywall to cover the seams between the boards. They will also complete drywall texturing if it applies to your home. After they finish the taping, the crew will also do the primer coat of paint.
At this point, your house starts to look like a house. You might start thinking about the furniture and interior decorations. However, it is still early for that. If you decide to purchase any furniture or electrical appliances, it is best to keep them inside a storage unit until the house is ready for the move-in process. Just have in mind that storage units do not allow specific prohibited items. For example, you cannot place stuff like plants, perishables, wet items, or anything flammable inside a storage unit. Be mindful of this rule before purchasing anything for your home.
Interior trim, exterior walkways, and driveway phase
Now is the time to install doors, window sims, and any decorative trim. You also apply the final coat of paint at this stage.
The contractor also works on pouring concrete for the exterior driveway or walkways. There is one thing to consider when doing this part of the project. Some contractors prefer to build the driveway and walkway as soon as the framing is done. This way, the place will not be muddy when the owners visit. However, if you need to use heavy machinery inside the house, it may damage the driveway. That’s why sometimes the contractor leaves this for the end.
Install flooring and countertops
The project is close to completion. The contractor is now installing wooden flooring, ceramic tiles, and countertops. They are also working on the exterior finish grading because it is vital to ensure proper drainage before the landscaping begins.
Final stage
During the final stage, the crew will install lighting and bathroom fixtures and finish the HVAC equipment. This is also the phase where the landscaping finishes are completed.
Now you can start working on the preparations for your relocation. Check all the details with moverstoronto.com to secure a smooth relocation. It is best to start planning the move once you know the date of the completion of the house building project. It often happens that there are delays, so you want to wait until the final stage.
An easy guide to the home building process explained
This guide to the home-building process should help you understand all of the steps. Even though the contractors will be the ones doing all the work, it helps if you know what to expect. The final piece of advice is to be patient. The process is long, but you get your home at the end. Best of luck in building the place of your dreams!
