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Jul 22, 2016

Centerra Guide to New Home Building Process

 

Building a new home is an exciting adventure, especially with the variety and selection of new homes for sale in Fort Collins and Loveland, CO. Without knowing how the process works, however, it can also be overwhelming at times.

 

This is Centerra’s Guide to New Homebuilding, a tool to keep prospective homebuyers informed, prepared and confident during each of the building stages. Keep in mind that the process can vary for everyone, so if you have specific questions about procedures and policies, be sure to ask your builder.

 

    1. Site Preparation: Perhaps the most important stage – and certainly the messiest. Footings and wooden forms will be put up to serve as a template for the foundation. If your home is going to have a basement, the holes will also be dug at this point. Drains, sewer and water taps along with any plumbing that needs to go into the first-floor slab or basement floor is installed at this point. The first inspection occurs after this step.
    2. Next, concrete will be poured for foundation walls, holes and trenches (Note: This is where there will be a lull in activity as concrete will need time to cure). The crew then also applies a waterproofing membrane to the foundation walls
    3. Complete Rough Framing: After the mess is cleared, you’ll finally be able to start seeing a shape that looks somewhat like a house. This is the stage in which the exterior shell, or “skeleton,” of the home will be constructed. Plywood or sheathing will be applied to the exterior, and exterior windows and doors will also be installed.
    4. Complete Rough Plumbing, Electrical and HVAC: Now that the shell is complete, siding and roofing can be installed. At this time, electric and plumbing contractors will begin running pipes and wires through the interior. Sewer lines, vents and water supply lines are installed, along with one-piece bathtub and shower units. More inspections will be required after this stage.
    5. Install Insulation: Now it’s time to bring on the heat! Insulation is the piece of the house that allows you to keep a comfortable and consistent climate throughout the northern Colorado seasons, while also improving your homes energy efficiency. The most common types of insulation used in new homes in Loveland and Fort Collins is fiberglass, cellulose or blanket insulation.
    6. Complete Drywall & Interior Textures: During this stage, drywall is hung, texturing is applied, and the walls are ready to be painted once everything is taped for accuracy. At this point, contractors will also install any exterior finishes, including brick, stucco, stone and siding.
    7. Finish Interior Trim: As the details start to come together, this is the stage where baseboards, windowsills, decorative trim, cabinets, vanities and mantles are installed. Walls will also get a final coat of paint.
    8. Install Flooring & Countertops: Your new house is starting to look like a home! Flooring and countertops are installed – usually wood, tile or vinyl materials. The yard is also beginning to be prepared for landscaping, and ensuring proper drainage.
    9. Finish Mechanical Trims & Install Bathroom Fixtures: HVAC equipment is installed along with light fixtures, switches and outlets. Sinks, toilets and faucets are also now working.
    10. Final Installations and Exterior Landscaping: Now you’re entering the home stretch. This is the time to install mirrors, doors and carpet. The final cleanup is underway. Trees and shrubs are now being planted to make your yard look like a home – rather than a construction site. One last inspection will occur.
    11. The Final Walkthrough: This is the moment you’ve dreamed of since you purchased your new home. Your builder will walk you through your new home and familiarize you with all of its features and amenities. This is your opportunity to point out any items that need fixed or adjusted, as well as ask questions, so be sure to be attentive and observant. Document everything you discuss with your builder so there are no disputes later on.

 

The award-winning builders at The Lakes at Centerra are dedicated to making the building process as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. Visit our website to learn more about our unique lifestyle community and skilled builders at The Lakes.

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