TIME FRAMES TO CONSIDER WHEN YOU BUILD A HOUSE - A GUIDE FOR ASPIRING HOMEOWNERS
Building a house is a significant milestone, and understanding the time frames involved can help manage expectations and ensure a smoother process. From initial planning to the final touches, each stage of building a home comes with its own set of time requirements. Here’s a detailed guide on the time frames to consider when you build a house in the North State.
As a designer & engineer, we understand the intricacies of the house construction process. Building your dream home involves several critical steps, each contributing to the overall time frame. Let’s take a look into what you can expect at each stage of the construction process, including the Time Frames to consider when you Build a House.
Finding the Right Designer and Engineer
To secure the services of a designer and engineer we first recommend that you set up appointments to meet with several professionals. This initial step is crucial as it helps you pick the professional that you feel most comfortable with and meets your budget. You will be spending some time with them during your home’s design phase and construction process. Depending on the designer or engineer’s workload and availability, there may be a wait time ranging from 6 weeks to 6 months. At J&J Newton Inc., we prioritize minimizing this delay, typically aiming to begin within 2 to 6 weeks of initial contact. If awarded your project we begin with the design process.
Designing the Floor Plan
We will begin by creating the floor plan. This floor plan serves as the visual representation of your home’s layout, detailing room sizes, traffic flow, and overall functionality. The timeframe for designing a floor plan varies widely based on the complexity of your project. For simpler designs, the process may take as little as a week, involving basic room placements and initial sketches. However, for more intricate designs or extensive client consultations, this phase can extend over several weeks or even months. Your drawings and pictures can often help us catch the vision you have for your new home.
Drafting the Structural Drawings
Structural drawings are fundamental to ensuring your home is built safely and complies with building codes. This phase involves detailed planning of the foundation, framing, and structural components of your house. Typically, drafting structural drawings takes between 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the complexity and size of the project.
Building Department Review
Submitting your plans to the local building department is a pivotal step in obtaining construction permits. The building department conducts a thorough review to ensure your plans comply with zoning regulations, building codes, and safety standards. The timeframe for this review process can vary significantly, typically ranging from 2 to 6 weeks. Factors influencing review times include the department’s workload, completeness of your submission, and adherence to local regulations. After their review, the building dept gives a list of corrections. At J & J Newton we make those corrections top priority. So you are not held up. Keep in mind, the review / correction process sometimes happens a few times before a permit is given. A couple of weeks for each review is not unheard of.
Contractor Selection and Wait List
Securing a reliable contractor is crucial but often comes with its own set of challenges. High demand, reputable contractors may have a wait list extending up to 6 months before they can begin construction on your home. Planning and engaging with contractors early in the process can help mitigate potential delays.
Truss System Acquisition
Trusses are critical structural components in home construction, supporting the roof and ensuring structural integrity. Ordering trusses typically takes between 4 to 6 weeks, depending on design specifications and manufacturer lead times. Coordinating with truss suppliers early in the planning phase ensures timely delivery and integration into the construction schedule.
Other Considerations
In addition to the primary stages outlined above, several other factors can influence the timeline and success of your home construction project:
Energy Calculations:
Concurrent with structural drawings, energy calculations assess your home’s energy efficiency and compliance with building codes. Delays in energy calculations can impact submission timelines to the building department.
Subcontractor Availability:
Specialized trades such as electricians, plumbers, HVAC, Dry-Wall contractors, ect have their schedules and may require advance scheduling to align with construction milestones.
Supply Lead Times:
Certain building materials, such as custom windows or specialty flooring, may have extended lead times. Ordering these materials well in advance prevents construction delays and ensures seamless project progress.
Partner with J&J Newton Inc.
As a homeowner embarking on the journey of building your dream house, partnering with J&J Newton Inc. works with you and your contractor to ensure expertise and reliability throughout every stage of the house construction process. With our experience as both designers and engineers, we are committed to delivering a project that exceeds expectations.
Our endeavor is that your project’s design and plans are completed in a timely manner. As with any building project with so many moving parts, preparation is essential and our job is to make that easier for you.
Wrapping Up
Considering the Time Frames to consider when you Build a House involves understanding and planning for each stage, from initial design to final construction. By understanding the possible time frames for each phase of construction and partnering with experienced professionals like J&J Newton Inc., aspiring homeowners can embark on their construction journey with confidence. Contact us today to discover how we can help turn your dream home into a reality, ensuring a seamless and rewarding building experience tailored to your needs.
