What Do You Need to Build a House: Essential Checklist for Homeowners

Beginning the process of building your dream home is exciting but also a project that requires careful planning, expert resources, and the right budget. You may be asking yourself, “what do you need to build a house?” The answer requires more than power tools and a dream. It requires permits, designs, inspections, interior walls, exterior finishes, and so much more. At MCG, we have helped hundreds of families turn their dreams into reality and we are prepared to do it for you.

Here are some essential items to keep in mind as you go through the building process.

Set the (Home) Stage

Before you start breaking ground, you must plan ahead. Begin by establishing your budget and financing plan. Ensure that you include inspection fees, site preparation, and a contingency fund for unexpected costs down the line. Then, once you have chosen your home contractor and architect, create a blueprint and architectural plan of your home design. Doing this will ensure that it not only meets your standards but also complies with the local building codes.

Once you have your plan laid out and your budget is firmly agreed upon, begin the process of securing the appropriate permits and approvals including electrical, plumbing, and zoning permits. This step is critical to the on-time completion of your home.

Essential Tools and Professional Expertise

When homeowners think of the building process and what materials they need, they may think of tools like nails and hammers. However, your best tools are going to be the team of professionals that will help you complete your project on time and to your satisfaction.

Think of your team as a “pit crew” and each member of the team brings a different skill that, when combined with others, creates a cohesive and well-working home. Your team may include carpenters, plumbers, roofers, electricians, HVAC technicians, and other skilled crews that bring years of experience to your project. Additionally, these crews will utilize equipment such as measuring tools, excavators, and other heavy machinery to ensure that they do their job right.

Choosing the Right Materials

As you continue to plan your home, you will work with your contractor team to select the right materials that will make your new home built to last. Some areas to consider include:

·      Foundation: The foundation is the footprint of your home so choosing the best materials is essential. The most common option is reinforced concrete with waterproofing.

·      Framing: While you will not see the framing in your day-to-day life, strong framing and walls are vital for the safety of you and your family. You can use traditional lumber or steel framing options.

·      Roofing: Your roof protects your home from the harsh elements such as the sun, rain, hail, and other natural events, but you can also have some flexibility in its appearance. Options such as asphalt, tile, or metal shingle roofs give you durability and protection, with great curb appeal.

·      Exterior: Capture the attention of your neighbors and prospective future buyers with a home with excellent curb appeal. Be creative and explore various options for your home’s exterior appearance.

At MCG we are experts in home design, and we are able to help you strike the right balance for your budget and personal style taste.

Creating a Solid Foundation

Your home’s foundation is one of (if not the) most important parts of your entire home. Understandably, laying the foundation can also be one of the most stressful parts, requiring special attention to detail and preparation. Your home contractor will ensure that they have gone through the proper steps to prepare the site and ensure that it is graded appropriately to aid in drainage. Additionally, they will ensure that moisture barriers and drainage systems are installed to prevent water damage in the future.

Framing the Structure

Once you have a strong foundation laid, the walls of your home can begin to come up. This is where you will begin to see your dream home come to life. While in the design process, ensure that your walls and floor systems are sturdy, with the proper doors and window openings that allow natural light and flow between rooms. Your builders will ensure that the structural supports meet local building codes.

Installing Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC

After your structural walls have been installed the “guts” of your home will begin to take shape. Your plumber will install water lines, drains, and other vital connection points. An electrician will bring light to your home by installing wiring, outlets, and other lighting systems. Your HVAC professional will keep your home comfortable by installing the heating, cooling, and ventilation systems needed for year-round comfort.

Adding Insulation and Drywall

Here is where the fun begins! Once your utilities have been installed, it is time to insulate to improve the comfort of your home and then install the drywall that allows your walls and ceilings to take shape. After these crucial steps are completed, you can begin to design the interior of your home with custom flooring, trim work, cabinets, and kitchen countertops. This is the part in the process where homeowners finally start to see the results of all their months (or even years) of planning and dreaming.

The Final Touches

The last step is where a house becomes your home. Take time customizing the final areas of your home including fixtures and finishes such as lighting, appliances, and faucets, and exterior finishes such as painting, brickwork, and landscaping. Once you have your final walkthrough and sign off by the inspector, the keys will be yours!

Turning your dream home into a reality is a milestone in many homeowners’ lives, but figuring out what you need to build your home is crucial. Working with a trusted home contractor like MCG will ensure that your project is completed with care, quality, and mastery in every build.

If you are ready to start building your dream home in Amelia Island, reach out to MCG today!