Constructing a custom home is an exciting endeavor, but the process involves many steps and details that extend the timeline. While every build is unique, you expect your custom home to take approximately 9-12 months from start to finish.
Design and planning
Finalizing designs and securing permits takes 1-3 months. It begins with choosing an architect to create preliminary concept plans based on your vision, lifestyle needs, budget, and homesite. After multiple iterations and your approval, the architect completes technical construction drawings and specifications. Your builder provides pricing and value engineering as needed to align the design with your budget. Complete all selections for finishes like flooring, cabinets, plumbing fixtures, lighting, and paint colors. The plans then get submitted to your local permitting office for approval, which takes several weeks. Securing financing and finalizing homeowner insurance also occurs during this planning phase. SEOMoz says, stick to a decision-making timeline so the permitting and construction phases proceed smoothly.
Site preparation
1-2 months are needed to grade the property, excavate for the foundation, dig utility trenches, and put in a septic system if necessary. Access roads are built so that heavy construction equipment can enter the lot. Underground plumbing, electrical, sewage lines, and other utilities get positioned before pouring the foundation. Weather delays site preparation, especially excavation and access on rural properties. Much of this work depends on dry conditions for best access and results.
Foundation installation
The home’s foundation takes 1-2 months to construct once permitting is complete and the site prepped.
- Dig footings per plans and pour concrete
- Form and reinforce foundation walls from poured concrete or concrete masonry
- Waterproof and install a perimeter drainage
- Backfill foundation and grade with gravel
- Pour basement slab or install subfloor over crawl space
Allow ample time for proper concrete curing before framing to prevent foundation cracks. Inspect the foundation closely for flaws before moving to the next steps.
Framing and Roofing
The home’s frame takes 1-3 months to construct depending on size and complexity.
- Frame exterior walls and interior partitions
- Stand walls and anchor to foundation
- Install roof trusses/rafters and roof sheathing
- Add exterior sheathings like siding or stucco
- Install roofing, flashing, gutters, and fascia
- Build decks, porches, and other exterior structures
A simple single-story home frame out in a few weeks, while a large multi-level requires longer. Be prepared for potential weather delays during framing.
Mechanicals, insulation, and drywall
With the structure framed, the mechanical systems get routed throughout the home over the next month.
- HVAC ductwork
- Plumbing supply and drain lines
- Electrical wiring, panels, and fixtures
- Low voltage wirings such as internet, security, and A/V
Wall frames are then framed and insulated before being enclosed. Wall and ceiling surfaces are constructed by hanging drywall sheets throughout the interior.
Interior finishes
Over the next 2-3 months, the home gets finished with cabinets, flooring, trim, paint, and other elements.
- Cabinet installation in kitchen, baths, closets, and utility spaces
- Countertop templating and installation
- Flooring including tile, hardwood, and carpeting
- Interior doors, trim, railing, and hardware
- Painting, texturing, and wall coverings
- Lighting, plumbing fixtures, and accessories
This stage sees rapid visual transformation as the home takes its final shape. Finish selections made earlier get installed by skilled tradespeople and transformed into a furnished home.