How Are Houses Constructed?
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Planning
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There are several steps that must be preformed before construction can begin. Property must be zoned for a residential building. This can be checked at the county zoning office. Once determined, plans for construction must be drawn. As the homeowner, you can either draw out the plans yourself (with the help of an architect) or purchase a pre-drawn plan. A survey of the land will be needed to find boundary lines, and if needed a location for septic and well. When finished, the plans will need to be taken to the county for approval, and a building permit will be issued for construction.
Hiring
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After you have drawn up the plans and chosen the location of the house, hire a builder to create the structure. He will examine the project and give you a cost estimate, which will allow you some time to shop around before committing. If chosen to do the construction, he will have workers of his own who will do the majority of the work, and will more than likely subcontract out some of the more technical aspects, such as wiring, plumbing or roof work.
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Inspection
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During the construction process, inspectors will be brought in to sign off on each stage such as insulation, electrical work, and foundation. Items that don't pass must be fixed before construction can continue. If you feel uneasy with this inspection process, you can also hire a private inspector to ensure that the home is being constructed to code. After construction is complete, the inspector will give the house one more look and will need to sign off before anyone can move in.
Building
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When construction begins, the site work is done first. Afterward the construction workers lay the foundation and raise the outer and inner wall beams. They put the roof in place next so the structure will be covered from the elements during construction. Next, the construction team affixes plywood and a protective covering to the outside of the house. They will then add the siding you've chosen, as well as windows and doors--now the outside is finished except for small details. The next step for the construction team is installing the wiring and plumbing in the walls and floors, and then insulation. Once the drywall is up the walls are finished with joint compound or plaster. The inside finishing items will include flooring, inner doors, paint, cabinetry, and lighting as well as any appliances purchased with the house.
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