Phase 1: Plans & Permits

​Tips and tricks to guide you through your dream home building journey.

UNDERSTAND LOCAL REGULATIONS
Once you find the land you wish to build on do your research. Research and understand local building codes and zoning regulations. Different regions have different rules, so ensure compliance with local requirements.

HIRE A PROFESSIONAL
Consider hiring a licensed architect, general contractor or a professional designer to create your construction plans. Professionals are familiar with local building codes and can ensure your plans meet all requirements.

PERMITTING PROCESS
The permitting process can take time.  Understand the inspection process and plan accordingly. Be prepared for multiple inspections at different stages of construction. Hiring a general contractor can help you manage the permitting process. Be patient and flexible in adapting to any changes or requests from the building department. 

Phase 2: Infrastructure

​Installing infrastructure such as electrical systems, water & waste water systems during the construction of your dream home requires careful planning and execution.

ELECTRICAL
In an established subdivision, connecting to the local power grid typically involves paying fees to tap into the electrical grid or poles.  Following this, a transformer box and meter will be installed to facilitate power distribution. However, if you're building in mountainous terrain, bringing power to your site requires coordination with the utility company to install power poles. Once the poles are in place, a transformer box and meter will be installed to enable power distribution to your site.

SEWER OR SEPTIC
When considering wastewater management, homeowners generally have two primary options: connecting to the city sewer system or installing a septic system. If connecting to city sewer, the process involves obtaining permits, liaising with contractors, and covering the tap fee. If installing a septic system, it entails hiring a reputable septic company. They handle everything from pulling permits and designing the system to ensuring it passes all necessary inspections. ​It's worth noting that the cost for either of these systems can vary significantly, influenced by factors such as soil conditions, local regulations, and other site-specific considerations.

WATER
Water access is a hot commodity in Colorado. You have two options: tap into city/community water or install a well. For city/community water, pay the tap fee, hire a professional for infrastructure installation, permit acquisition, and inspection clearance. ​For a well, obtain a permit from the Division of Water. Most permits are for household use, with exemptions for watering animals or greenhouses. Depending on acreage, a domestic well granting additional usage rights may be possible. Hire a qualified well company for drilling, water quality testing, permitting, infrastructure installation, and inspection.

Phase 3: Foundation

During the foundation and excavation phase of building a home, several crucial steps must be followed to ensure a strong and stable foundation.

SITE PREPARATION
Prepare the construction site by clearing vegetation, debris, and obstacles, ensuring a level and stable base. In mountainous areas, address tree mitigation within required zones by cutting down trees or pruning the tree canopies. ​Conduct a survey to identify property boundaries, elevation changes, and potential obstacles. The contractor then marks the foundation layout using stakes and strings, aligning with architectural plans and building codes.

EXCAVATION
The contractor will excavate the foundation trench to the specified dimensions and depth using heavy equipment like excavators or backhoes. After pouring the concrete foundation, they'll backfill the area around the foundation walls with compacted soil or gravel, ensuring stability. Finally, they'll grade the landscape away from the foundation to prevent water pooling near the structure.

CONCRETE
Construct the foundation walls using concrete, masonry blocks, or poured concrete, ensuring proper reinforcement with steel rebar and alignment with the layout plan. Before pouring the basement slab or floor, install rough plumbing and electrical lines, including drainage pipes, water supply lines, and electrical conduit, to be concealed within the finished basement walls and floors. ​Finish any remaining preparations, such as installing termite barriers, insulation, or vapor barriers, before advancing to the next construction phase. Typically, a foundation, concrete, and/or excavation inspection occurs at this stage.

Phase 4: Rough Out Trades

During the rough-out phase of building, several key components are installed to prepare the structure for further construction and finishing work.

FRAMING
Construct the framework of the building using structural materials such as wood, steel, or engineered lumber. This includes erecting walls, floors, and roofs according to the architectural plans and building codes.

HEATING
Install heating system components such as ductwork, vents, and pipes for forced air heating systems, or radiant heating systems embedded in floors or walls. ​This rough heating installation lays the groundwork for providing warmth and comfort to the building.

PLUMBING
Install rough plumbing components including pipes, fittings, and fixtures for water supply, drainage, and venting systems. This includes laying out plumbing lines for sinks, toilets, showers, and other fixtures, as well as connecting to the main water and sewer lines.

ELECTRICAL
Install electrical wiring, outlets, switches, and lighting fixtures in the walls, ceilings, and floors of the building. This rough electrical work provides the basic infrastructure for powering the building and will be concealed by finishes in later phases.

Phase 5: Middle Phase

During the mid-phase of house building, significant progress is made toward completing the structure and preparing it for interior finishing.

WINDOWS & DOORS
Install windows and exterior doors to enclose the building and provide natural light, ventilation, and access. This involves framing openings to accommodate the windows and doors, followed by securing them in place and weatherproofing the openings.

INSULATION
Install insulation throughout the exterior walls, attic spaces, and floors to enhance energy efficiency and regulate indoor temperature. ​This may involve using materials such as fiberglass batts, spray foam, or rigid foam boards, depending on the climate and building design.

DRYWALL
Hang drywall panels on the interior walls and ceilings to create a finished surface for painting or wallpapering. This process includes cutting and fitting drywall sheets to size, attaching them to the framing with screws or nails, and taping and mudding the seams to create a seamless finish.

Phase 6: Finishing Touches & Interior

In this phase, attention to detail and thoughtful selection of finishes transform your house into a home, reflecting your personality, preferences, and lifestyle with every carefully curated detail. 

FLOORING
Begin your journey towards the perfect flooring by immersing yourself in research and exploration of various options. Take the time to visit showrooms and view samples, allowing you to visualize how different materials will complement your home's aesthetic. Consider the unique demands of each space - from high-traffic areas to cozy retreats -and select flooring that balances durability, maintenance requirements, and visual appeal. Ensure that your choice reflects both your personal style and practical needs.

KITCHEN
As the heart of the home, the kitchen deserves meticulous attention to detail. With the foundation of your kitchen layout established, shift your focus to selecting appliances, countertops, and cabinetry that seamlessly blend form and function. Explore a variety of options, from sleek stainless steel appliances to luxurious quartz countertops, ensuring that each element contributes to the overall harmony of the space. Embrace opportunities for customization with decorative accents like intricately patterned backsplashes, statement lighting fixtures, and stylish hardware.

BATHROOM
Elevate your daily routine by curating bathrooms that blend style and functionality. Choose durable, water-resistant materials for floor and wall tiles, ensuring longevity and aesthetic appeal. Tailor fixtures such as sinks, faucets, showers, and vanities to reflect your personal taste and budget, while prioritizing storage solutions and practical touches like towel hangers. 

FINAL INTERIOR FINISHES
Finalize your interior finishes with painting & trim such as baseboards, crown molding, and window casings, creating architectural interest and cohesion. Install doors for seamless functionality, selecting hardware that complements your style. Customize closet solutions for optimal organization and storage, and enhance safety and style with handrails for stairs and balconies.

Phase 7: Finishing the Trades

Meticulous attention to final details to ensure all systems are operating functionally and seamlessly into the design of your home to welcome you with comfort, convenience, and style

ELECTRICAL
Install all lighting fixtures throughout the house, strategically placing them to illuminate each space effectively. From ambient lighting to task lighting, each fixture contributes to the overall atmosphere and functionality of your home. ​With safety and aesthetics in mind, attach cover plates to electrical outlets and switches, providing a polished finish that enhances the overall look and feel of your space.

HEATING
Ensure year-round comfort by installing thermostats to regulate temperature control throughout the home. These devices not only maintain optimal temperatures but also help to reduce energy consumption and utility costs. Additionally, secure heat registers in designated areas to distribute warm air efficiently and evenly, ensuring consistent heating throughout your home.

PLUMBING
Complete the installation of plumbing hardware in kitchens and bathrooms, transforming these spaces into functional and inviting areas. From sinks and faucets to showers and toilets, each fixture plays a crucial role in daily routines. Ensure that all fixtures are securely attached and properly aligned, providing both functionality and visual appeal to these essential spaces.