Don’t Build A New Home Without This Basic Checklist

Constructing your own home from the foundation up is a huge undertaking, and while it’s entirely possible (especially with help from the right construction company), it is important to ensure that you actually have the necessary funds available before starting the project (don’t forget all those unforeseen expenses that can so quickly mount up), and that you’re prepared to seek professional guidance to ensure everything goes to plan. 

If you’re about to embark on building a new home, whether you plan to live in it yourself or not, the following checklist put together by new construction contractors in Astoria, NY, can help the project stay on track:

The preparatory stage

It’s important that before any work gets underway, you have understood the following fully, and planned for them:

• Blueprints

These are plans detailing the design and structural aspects of your new home, and are crucial for the projects success. 

• Surveys

During a survey (which must always be carried out by professionals), the land’s boundaries are assessed, along with its topography, and any possible obstacles, so that all subsequent measurements are guaranteed to be accurate, and you can determine where your new home should ideally be situated.

• Permits 

Obtained from local authorities, these are the necessary legal permissions that give the construction process the legal right to go ahead, and go ahead smoothly. 

• Staking

This is when markers are placed on the ground to show exactly where the planned structure will sit. 

The foundation

No new construction can go ahead without this. The process is usually carried out by qualified construction contractors, and in the following order:

• Excavation

During excavation, soil is removed so that the site can be prepared for construction. The surface is leveled off and trenches are dug for both the foundation, and utilities. 

• Footers

These are structures made from concrete to support the walls of the foundation, and evenly distribute the building’s weight. 

• Foundation

This is the structure’s concrete base, responsible for transferring the buildings load to the ground. 

• Framework

Made from beams or columns that are constructed using steel or wood, the framework is the buildings skeletal structure. 

• Doors and windows

All exterior doors and windows are installed.

• House wrap

This protective barrier is applied to all external walls before siding, and helps enhance moisture management, energy efficiency, and insulation. 

The guts of the building

Once the stages above have been successfully carried out by a professional construction contractor, the guts of the building are formed:

• Plumbing

At this stage, all necessary water, drainage and gas supply pipes, fixtures and fittings, are installed throughout the property. 

• Electrics

All outlets, wiring, fixtures and switches are installed to guarantee an electrical system that is both functional and safe. 

• Insulation

Within the walls, floors and ceilings, insulation materials are added to improve energy efficiency and enhance temperature control. 

• Drywall

Sometimes known as sheetrock or gypsum board, this is used to provide a smoother surface for the application of paint or paper on interior walls and ceilings. 

The aesthetics, inside and out

No home is complete without the following aspects:

• Siding

Helping to enhance the visual appeal of the home externally, this cladding also provides a degree of protection against the elements. 

• Garage doors

These are usually selected to match the style of the home, and of course, add functionality and security, too.

• Paint

Applied to all interior and exterior surfaces, paint adds color, protection and pizazz! 

• Flooring, trim and doors

To add the finishing, final touches to the home, all floor materials are added.  

• Cabinetry

For storage and functionality, all necessary cabinets are installed in the kitchen and bathroom(s). 

• Light fixtures

Light fixtures are installed throughout the building for ambience and practicality. 

• Appliances

All appliances are installed.  

Finally, a masonry contractor in Astoria, NY will begin working on the designing of hardscape features such as patios, paths and driveways, to help make accessing the building easier, and enhancing enjoyment of the property overall. 

To kickstart the building of your new home, talk to experienced construction contractors in your area.