Steps to Building a Custom Home
Building a custom home can be exciting. You are creating a dwelling to your exact specifications. However, if you have never experienced building a custom home, you may not know what to expect. The following nine steps provide a summary of the custom home building process.
Prep and Pour
This is the first stage of actual building after blueprints have been finalized and permits obtained. Your builder will prep your home site by clearing trees and pouring the foundation for your new home.
Rough Framing
During this stage, your home begins to take shape. Walls, floors, and roofing are put into place at this point. Framing is done with wood or steel, and then wrapped to keep out moisture before adding windows, roofing shingles and exterior siding.
Plumbing, Electrical & HVAC
Once the shell of your home is in place, it is safe to install utilities such as plumbing, HVAC, and electrical wiring. An inspector will need to sign off on this phase before construction on your house can continue.
Insulation
Insulation is the next thing to be installed during the build process. Insulation helps keep your home cool in summer and warm in winter. Insulation can take many forms, such as cellulose, fiberglass, or foam. Insulation can also provide soundproofing.
Drywall
After insulation is in place, the drywall can start to go in, and the actual configuration of your home becomes more apparent. Drywall can be hung with nails or screws. A layer of “mudding” and primer prepares walls for paint or wallpaper.
Interior Trim
Once the walls are in place, the interior trim work can begin. This is the phase where details like crown molding, doors, windows, and stair railings are placed into your home. Ceramic or porcelain tile, hardwood and carpet may also be installed during this phase. Hardwood flooring will need to cure before it can withstand foot traffic.
Exterior Work
Driveways, walkways, and patios are completed during this phase of construction. Grading to direct water away from your home takes place as well.
Final Utilities
This essential phase involves installing toilets, electrical panels, and other utilities, along with shower doors and mirrors. An inspector must sign off on this phase of construction as well.
Exterior Work
Once construction is finished, an inspector will give your home a final walk-through. You can attend this walkthrough if you wish. Once completed, you will receive a certificate of occupancy, and you can move in!
