We begin with your vision and work hard to internalize this and fully understand what it will entail. While our design team works on floor plans, measurements, and other details, we will be able to work out any specifications you may have, like color or material, which sometimes are even easier to identify as the process continues. Once these blueprints are completed, we will be able to develop a full price plan so that we can work around any budget ceilings, and you can feel comfortable knowing the exact cost going into your dream. Finally, once the contract is agreed upon, the construction can begin on your new home.
Once the permits are issues on your lot, we begin materializing your home. This includes regular inspections and walkthroughs at every stage of construction to ensure our promise of quality. We will be able to take you through the home as it progresses so that every detail lives up to your vision, and you have the peace of mind to know where your project stands. Once simply a dream, you’ll finally be able to immerse yourself in your home after the building process is completed.
Read below for a more in-depth description of our process.
The Construction Process
Watching your new home evolve from a vacant homesite to the finished product is a very exciting experience. The following overview of the construction process will let you know what to look forward to during the weeks and months ahead.
The time from final execution of a Contract to the start of construction varies from community to community and municipality to municipality. It also varies because of Architectural Review Committee (ARC) approvals.
The actual time it will take to construct your home may vary depending upon your plan and structural options selected.
Permitting and Site Preparation
Before we can actually begin construction of your home, all appropriate permits must be obtained. The duration of this process varies from municipality to municipality.
Once all permits have been received, construction of your home can begin. The first phase of the construction process is site preparation. At this phase, the homesite is surveyed and marked with stakes to show the final positioning of your home, which is drawn on a Proposed House Layout Survey. The site is then cleared of all trees and obstructions and the soil is graded for the construction process. In some cases, fill dirt may be required. This can be a timely process. Kargar Construction reserves the right to remove any trees necessary to ensure proper construction and site drainage, although every effort will be made to preserve existing trees. When fill dirt is needed to bring the slab preparation area up to the right elevation, the fill dirt required may often kill the trees on the property.
Foundation and Underground Trades
After the site has been staked and graded, the foundation preparation begins. The electrical, HVAC, and plumbing trades will install all underground pipes and conduits necessary. These three trades will be inspected by the city/county building inspectors.
“Shell” Construction
After the slab has been poured, construction of the “Shell” can begin. Shell is a common term used in Florida to describe the outer structure of the home. The first step in this process is erecting the exterior bearing walls. After the exterior walls have been erected the walls are reinforced with steel. In block construction, after the walls have been inspected, the concrete beams, lentils, and metal hurricane straps are installed for strength and anchoring of the other components.
The Shell is now ready for the interior framing, and the carpentry process begins. This consists of wood/metal studs, beams, floor joists, and roof trussed used to create the skeletal structure of the home. In some communities, second-story masonry is used. The duration of this process varies depending on the home size. During this process, your home will be inspected by the Building Inspectors numerous times to ensure the home meets or exceeds all applicable building codes for residential construction.
Many of the components that make up the shell of your home are reinforced with various anchors and straps. The straps and anchors help to ensure the integrity of the shell.
After the home has passed the required structural inspections, the roof is then covered with roofing underlayment. This protects the roof sheathing and allows interior work to begin.
Interior Framing and Mechanical Systems
After the roof has been dried-in, interior walls are constructed. Wood and/or metal studs are used to erect all interior walls and partitions. After the walls are erected, plumbing, electrical and HVAC components are installed and inspected. During this time, windows and exterior door frames are installed. In most cases, roof shingles are also being installed at the same time.
After all mechanical systems have been installed and inspected; your progress walk will take place. This orientation normally lasts approximately 30 to 60 minutes.
Interior Finishing
After the progress walk, insulation is placed and inspected in the exterior walls and in accessible attic areas. The next step is the installation of drywall. The drywall is then finished and appropriate textures are applied.
Interior finish work continues with the installation of interior doors, moldings, and trim. After the interior has been painted, cabinets and countertops are installed. The plumbing, HVAC and electric finish detail begins, including installation of all appropriate components such as water heater(s), air-conditioning unit(s) and light fixtures. The mirrors, closet shelving, door hardware and floor coverings are then installed.
Exterior Finishing
While work continues on the inside of your home, exterior finishing progresses. The first step in the stucco process is installation of wire lath and decorative bands (where applicable). The last coat is the texture coat. After the stucco is completed, it is then painted.
Other exterior finishes may include brick stone siding (if applicable), light fixtures, driveways and patios, irrigation, landscaping, and other options that may be part of your new home. Once these items are finished, your home is nearing completion.
The Builder will schedule the electric meter to be set, and the air conditioning unit(s) will be started up. The electrician then inspects the entire home to make sure that all electrical components are working correctly.
Certificate of Occupancy
Once the interior and exterior finish work is completed and the final inspections are obtained, the Building Official will issue a Certificate of Occupancy (CO). A copy of this document will be provided to you at the time of closing for your personal records.
At this time your home is going through the final touch-up stage. This entails such things as paint touch-up, minor adjustments, and any other necessary items in order to complete your new home.
Weather’s Impact on Construction Schedules
Until the roof is completed, weather can dramatically affect the delivery date. Weather can severely impact the installation of utility services, final grading, and concrete work. Extended periods of weather may bring work to a stop in the entire region. When favorable conditions return, trades will continue with the construction of your home. Please understand that they are as eager as you are to get caught up and to see progress on your home.
“Nothing’s Happening”
Expect several days during the construction of your home when it may appear as though nothing is happening. This can occur for a number of reasons. Each trade is scheduled days or weeks in advance of the actual work. This period is referred to as “lead time”. Time is allotted for completion of each trade’s work on your home. Sometimes, one trade completes its work a bit ahead of schedule. The next trade already has an assigned time slot, which usually cannot be changed on short notice.
Progress pauses while the home awaits building department inspections. This is also part of the normal sequence of the construction schedule and occurs several times during construction.
Closing Date
Expect a firm closing date no later than 30 days prior to closing. This will be provided by letter so that you can then complete your moving plans. We suggest that until you receive this closing date, you avoid finalizing arrangements for your move. Do not rely upon any verbal date for your planning purposes. Only written notifications from the Closing Department will provide a specific date, time and place for the closing of your new home. When this letter is received you can then schedule your final moving arrangements. In the event a last-minute delay is necessary, you will be contacted as soon as this is known by Kargar Construction.