How to Plan For a New House Project
Whether you’re building your first home or your dream house, a new construction project can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The process can take a year or more from start to finish, so it’s important to budget for not just the cost of the construction itself but also for your living expenses during that time.
A new build has the advantage of meeting current and future energy standards, so you’ll likely see savings on your utility bills in the long run. Additionally, you’ll be able to choose from many different materials and features that contribute to both the function and aesthetic of your home. You’ll also likely have the option to install solar panels, use low-energy lighting and appliances, and invest in water-saving fixtures.
You’ll need to acquire the necessary permits for your project, which can sometimes be a lengthy process. Once you have them, the team can begin preparing the site. This involves excavating the area, leveling it, and clearing any debris, rocks, or trees that might be present.
Once the foundation is set, the crew can begin constructing the house itself. The frame is basically the skeleton of your house, and it’s where you’ll be able to get an idea of where windows and doors will be placed. At this point, your builder will probably put in plumbing and electrical wires as well as water heaters and HVAC systems. Once all of this is in place, your builder will cover it with sheathing – a protective barrier that prevents water from breaching your walls and roof, but that still allows water vapor to escape. Your builder will also wrap the entire structure with a layer of house wrap, which acts as an air sealant for your home.
This phase of the project can be one of the most exciting, as it’s when you’ll be able to watch your home come together before your eyes. You’ll see the brick or stucco being laid, siding or shingles going on, and the rain gutters getting attached. If you’ve included a front or back deck in your design, that will be constructed during this phase as well.
Unlike many other projects, building a house is typically an outdoor affair. This means that bad weather can significantly affect the build timeline and potentially delay completion. This is especially true for regions of the country that experience a lot of rainfall or snowfall, and it’s also common for unexpected issues to pop up during construction. These can include weather, permitting delays, and material shortages. Fortunately, these issues can often be avoided by working with an experienced and reliable builder. The best way to avoid these problems is to be proactive and ask questions during the planning stage. A good builder will be able to explain how these issues can be mitigated and help you stay on track with your project timeline. For example, he or she might recommend weather windows to prevent leaky roofs or other costly issues.
