A building permit authorizes the contractor to begin work described in theproject plans and selections. Work cannot begin before approval of the application and plans.

Excavation is the process of moving earth, rock, or other materials to create the space for the building’s foundation.

Footings are the main support for the home, and the foundation walls sit on top of the footings. Wood framing is installed on top of the foundation walls.

Framing has a few basic components. It will almost always include a floor system, walls, and a roof system. Moisture and air protection is one of the most critical parts of the entire new home construction process. 

Once the house is mostly “dried in” the rough mechanicals will start. Rough mechanicals are the guts of the home, and consist of the plumbing, HVAC, Rough Electric and Low-Voltage components installed in the walls and ceilings.

Insulation plays a key role in creating a more comfortable, consistent indoor climate while significantly improving a home’s energy efficiency. Drywall installation is an exciting time, as the interior of the home really begins to take shape.

Interior doors, baseboards, door casings, windowsills, moldings, stair balusters and other decorative trim are installed, along with cabinets, vanities and fireplace mantels and surrounds. Walls get a finish coat of paint as well.

Ceramic tile, vinyl and wood flooring are installed as well as countertops. Exterior finish grading is completed to ensure proper drainage away from the home and prepare the yard for landscaping.

Light fixtures, outlets and switches are installed, and the electrical panel is completed. HVAC equipment is installed, and registers completed. Sinks, toilets, and faucets are put in place.

Punch-out is an industry term, which is the process of wrapping up or fixing items in the house. These items may include but are not limited to painting, caulking in wood stair treads, adjusting cabinet doors, verifying the operation of items like garbage disposals, cleaning door thresholds, adjusting and cleaning outlet and switch plate covers, and touching up cabinets.

Each new home is cleaned from top to bottom.