Phase one: pre-construction 1 - 2 months
This is where the initial plans for your home are drawn up and finalized. These plans are then submitted to the municipal building permit office for review and approval. Before any construction begins, various site tests may be conducted to assess factors like the water table, soil composition, and environmental considerations. These tests help in making necessary adjustments to the plans before moving forward.
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Phase two: foundation 1 month
Once the plans are approved, the construction site is prepared by clearing the land and excavating the area where the house will sit. The footings, which are essentially concrete slabs to support the foundation walls, are then formed and poured. During this phase, essential services such as water, electricity, telephone, and cable may also be brought in. The foundation walls are erected using various materials like poured concrete, concrete blocks, or preserved wood. It’s crucial to install proper drainage systems, such as weeping tiles, to manage ground moisture effectively. Municipal inspections typically occur at this stage to ensure the foundation meets building code requirements.
Phase three: framing 2 - 3 months
This phase involves the assembly of the structural framework of the house. Exterior walls, interior partitions, and the roof are constructed using a framing technique, which may involve assembling a skeleton structure on the floor and then lifting it into place. Roof trusses are often brought to the site ready for installation. Windows and doors are installed to secure the structure, and the aim is to reach “lock-up” stage as quickly as possible to protect the interior from the elements. Rough-ins for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems are also completed during this phase.
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Phase four: Interior and exterior work 2 - 3 months
With the structure secured, work shifts to both the interior and exterior of the house. Insulation is added to exterior walls and the roof, followed by the application of a vapor barrier. This phase also involves the installation of heating, cooling, and ventilation systems, along with fireplaces. Inside, walls and ceilings are painted, flooring is laid, and fixtures such as cabinets, plumbing, and electrical fittings are installed. Exterior work includes siding installation, eavestroughing, and the creation of porches and decks. Multiple municipal inspections may occur during this phase to ensure compliance with building codes.
Phase five: from near completion to hand over 1 month
As the construction nears completion, the focus shifts to finishing touches and clean-up. A walk-through of the home is typically conducted with the builder to address any final issues or touch-ups. Once everything is in order, you’ll be handed the keys to your new home on the possession date, marking the official handover of the property to you.
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The construction of a house typically spans a duration of about 7 to 10 months from start to finish. However, this timeframe can vary depending on factors such as the size and complexity of the home, local building regulations, weather conditions, and any unexpected delays that may arise during the construction process. So, while this timeframe provides a general estimate, it’s important to remain flexible and patient as your dream home takes shape.
Important Disclaimer
Even minor adjustments during construction can have significant impacts on both cost and scheduling, especially if the building process is already underway. For instance, changing flooring materials might necessitate adjustments to underlying structures like sub-flooring. These changes can lead to delays since we operate on tight schedules, coordinating various tasks and subcontractors according to a set timetable.
To manage changes effectively, it’s essential to document them through written change orders signed by both parties. This helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that everyone involved, from our sales staff to our construction crews, is aware of the agreed-upon modifications.
Change orders are typically considered additional to the original contract, and it’s important to understand how they will be addressed in terms of payment. We can clarify whether adjustments will be made to the closing balance, if charges will be billed separately, or if the costs will be included in scheduled construction payments. This clarity helps maintain transparency and accountability throughout the construction process.
