Home Remodeling

Guide to Home Renovation

The Remodeling Process

• Planning
  The most critical phase of any project. You should do your research and communicate your desires to your contractor.
  
   
• Demolition
  For many this is an exciting time as you see old walls come down, etc. Be prepared by removing furniture, artwork, rugs, etc. Work with your contractor to minimize dust in the rest of the house.
  
   
• Framing
  Things take shape very quickly in the framing stage. Some people get the impression that either the project is half complete or that the progress will continue at this pace. The framing, while a tangible indication of progress is really the beginning of the project. As work gets more detailed and as the trades work together (electrical work before sheetrock, etc.) the pace may seem to slow substantially. Rest assured that this is the norm. If you have concerns about the schedule, bring them up to your contractor to prevent tension from seeping into the relationship.
  
   
• Flooring
  This stage is actually part of the framing process and will happen before the walls are framed.
  
   
• Sheathing
  The exterior sheathing adds stability to the wall frames so it will likely go on as quickly as possible. Often before the roof is framed out.
  
   
• Roofing
  The roof sheathing will also be installed as soon as possible to offer stability and protection from the weather. Depending on the progress of the interior, roofing felt and shingles or other coverings will be installed as soon as necessary.
  
   
• Windows
  The windows and exterior weather barrier are often installed around the same time, depending on the windows' availablilty.
  
   
• Plumbing
  Once the construction area is enclosed, plumbing will likely begin.
  
   
• Electrical
  As with plumbing, electrical work begins and may proceed over several days or weeks, depending on the project schedule.
  
   
• HVAC
  The HVAC contractor will likely coordinate with the electrical contractor and the rest of the team.
  
   
• Inspections
  Inspections will occur at various milestones in the project, i.e. framing, plumbing, electrical. Ask your contractor to notify you of impending inspections and whether you need to be present for them.
  
   
• Sheetrock
  Once the electrical, plumbing and HVAC work and inspections are complete the insulation and sheetrock work can begin. This process will take several days or weeks depending on the size of the job. The sheetrock will be hung and the joints taped and 'mudded.' This joint compound will need to dry before the sheetrocker returns to sand and apply another coat or two to smooth out the walls and ceilings.
  
   
• Trim
  The woodwork will give your project that finished look you've been wanting by this point. This is a very detailed phase of the project, which means it could span several days or weeks.
  
   
• Floor Covering
  Once the construction area is thoroughly cleaned the floor covering can be installed.
  
   
• Punch List
  Once the obvious items have been taken care of by your contractor, you need to make a close inspecton of the renovation/addition and note any corrections that need to be made. Get your contractor to committ to a schedule for completing the punch list and final inspection.
  
   
• Enjoy
  If you have properly planned the project and selected a quality contractor, you are ready to enjoy your newly remodeled home.