The decision to build a new home can seem a little overwhelming. Woodson Construction wants the construction of your dream to be a satisfying experience. We break down the building process so that it is more straightforward. By understanding the overall procedure, you become more involved. We actually encourage you to be involved, because the building journiey is truly personal…
Step 1: Pre-Construction
You will meet directly with Gordon to discuss your house plan, building site, and any customized changes that you already know you want. Gordon will meet with you a second time and present options and price points. Together, you will sign a sales agreement and include a set of modified plans. At the same time, you will need to secure your pre-qualification letter from your financial institution of choice.
Step 2: Foundation
Permits will be pulled with the appropriate agency. Boundaries of the site will be determined to assist in placing the home. The ground is excavated and the footing poured. Utilities are run from the street. Blocking of the foundation will take place. A County and/or City inspection is completed during this phase of the process.
Step 3: Framing
The green plate will be added to the block foundation. Then the exterior and interior walls will be framed. The house will be wrapped and felt paper added to further protect the home. The roof will be added. At this point, we say that the home is “dried-in”. You will meet with Gordon to discuss final electrical and plumbing needs. Two County and/or City inspections will be made.
Step 4: Mechanical Rough-ins
Electrical, plumbing and HVAC will be roughed-in. Expect to see wires, pipes, and ductwork in the walls. Bath and shower units will be set as well. The mechanical stage must be inspected. Once another inspection is completed, the home will be insulated. This is the time when you will need to make selections for interior design features. A list will be provided.
Step 5: Exterior Finishes
While the rough-in stage is taking place, exterior finishes will be added to the home. As weather is a factor, this stage may be completed quickly or run concurrent with the interior schedule. Expect to see all applicable brick, stone, siding, trim, gutters, sidewaldks, driveways, decks and patios installed.
Step 6: Interior Finishes
Everyone will be busy during this phase. You will make final selection decisions. While the drywall is being installed, attic insulation will be blown and painting will be completed. Selections such as flooring, cabinets, mirrors, closets, lighting fixtures, plumbing fixtures, and appliances will be installed. The electrician, plumber, and HVAC professionals will all come back to the house to complete the “trim-out” of their respective components. You will be encouraged to visit and see the major progress that is being made.
Step 7: Exterior Landscape and Interior Touch-ups
The yard will be graded and landscaped. The mailbox will be installed. Inside the home, we will touch-up paint, clean, and Gordon will create a “punch-out” list for his team to address.
Step 8: Walk-Through
We will be ready for you to tour your new home. The purpose of the walk-through is to give you the opportunity to identify any cosmetic or mechanical issues that need further attention. It is also a time for you to test out your home and ask questions. You will also be given a Home Warranty Manual and instructions on how to maintain your new investment. Gordon will address any concerns or questions at this time.
Step 9: Closing
Gordon will order a final inspection on your home. The governing agency will issue a Certificate of Occupancy. We will then be able to attend Closing. At Closing, you will sign papers that officially transfer ownership of the home to you. At the same time, you will fulfill your financial obligations as per the contract. Once we have closed, you will receive the keys and are welcome to move into your new home.
Step 10: Post Closing
We will still be available to assist you with your home. Visit our website to ask questions or request warranty service. We will contact you at regular intervals throughout the first year to see if there is anything you need. We don’t just build houses…we build relationships.
Special note: The steps of “The Building Journey” have been provided in this article as a guideline for the general building process. They are not meant to be an exact or all-inclusive description of the home building process nor meant to endorse or encourage individuals to use the outlined process to build their own home without the assistance of a licensed professional.