Steps in Building Houses

The Planning and Preparation Stage

• During the planning stage, you'll select a floor plan or have an architect draw a custom plan. Since the cost of building a house increases with size, ask a local contractor for an estimated cost-per-square-foot charge to get a general idea of the size of house you can afford. Order multiple sets of blueprints. You'll want a set, your contractor will need a set and even your banker may ask for a set to keep on file. Purchase a lot that will accommodate your house plan, and determine where your new home will sit on the lot. Your lot probably comes with predetermined setbacks that restrict where you can position the house.

Breaking Ground and the Foundation

• Before the big day arrives, your contractor will determine how the utilities will enter your home, and he may have temporary electric and water sources installed to use during the building process. The foundation contractor will dig the hole for your basement and erect concrete forms to pour the foundation. At the same time, or soon after, he will pour the steps, a driveway and a sidewalk from the driveway to the front of the house.

Building the Shell

• After the foundation is in, the framing begins. You'll see the structure of your home take shape as your contractor installs the floor joists, builds the exterior and interior stud walls and sets the roof trusses. He'll make provisions for doors and windows during this time. Large sheets of plywood or similar material will cover the roof trusses and box in the house, creating a protective shell. Windows and doors are set, and the roofing contractor installs the shingles. The siding contractor, or mason, installs the exterior finish on your house.

The Mechanical Stage

• Inside the house, a lot of activity is now taking place. Mechanical subcontractors are installing water lines and drainpipes for sinks, showers and tubs. The electrician will run wires for switches, power outlets, light fixtures and for the kitchen and laundry appliances. Once the mechanical elements are in place, the walls need to be insulated. The drywall contractors will then hang the wallboard on the ceilings and walls, and tape it smooth.

Finishing Your Home

• Finally, you can proceed with your new home's finish. This step includes setting cabinets, installing trim around doors and windows, fitting baseboards, texturing the ceilings, painting the walls and installing the light fixtures and outlet covers. After the walls and ceilings, the flooring contractor will lay carpet and other flooring types. You can then set your kitchen and laundry appliances. Outdoors, your contractor is putting the final touches on your yard, grading the slope that allows water to drain away from your home and installing guttering and downspouts. You may now install a sprinkler system, plant your lawn and complete your landscaping.