How House Construction Works
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Planning and Design
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The process of building a house starts with developing a budget for the project. Some homeowners may be able to do this on their own, based on savings and financing capabilities. Those who need help with this step can find assistance from their architect. An architect is responsible for designing the home, and for creating the blueprints needed to obtain building permits. The design of the house is often determined by local building codes, as well as by the homeowner's budget and preferences. An architect will often develop several drafts of the home's blueprints, making changes until the homeowner is satisfied with the design.
Permits and Earthwork
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Once building plans are complete, the architect or homeowner must take them to the local permit office to apply for a building permit. Some builders will complete this step for you, but because permitting can be a long process, it is usually helpful to file for the permit as you begin looking for contractors. Once the permit has been approved, it's time to start preparing the land for construction. This involves grading, or smoothing the land through filling or excavation, as well as digging holes for foundations, footers, and other underground installations. If there are no utility lines on the property, they are often added during this time.
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Framing
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Footers and foundations are used to support the weight of the house, and are made from concrete or masonry. Once they are complete, the ground floor may be built from wood or concrete. After this floor is complete, framing begins. Framing is the process of using wood or metal beams, studs and other structural components to form the "skeleton" of the house. As framing nears completion, you'll be able to see the basic structure and layout of the home. Mechanical and electrical rough-ins are also added during this process, and typically include ductwork, piping, and wiring run through ceiling areas or between wall studs.
Finishing
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After framing and rough-ins are complete, the remaining elements of the house are added. Exterior cladding, drywall, ceilings and floors are installed around the framing, which provides both structural support and a means of fastening these components. Doors and windows are installed, and final connections are made to electrical panels and HVAC units. The roof is added during this time, as are moisture and vapor barriers, which help to give the house a watertight seal. After the house is watertight, finishing can begin. Finishing is the process of installing items such as floor coverings, paint, cabinets, interior doors, woodwork and trim. After construction is complete, local building inspectors will inspect the home and ensure that it is safe. If the house is built to code, an occupancy certificate is granted and the homeowner is ready to move in.
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References
Resources
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