Although you won’t be completing your renovation or addition on your own, it is still quite helpful to be aware of the many steps that go into the construction process. As your construction moves along, you will be called upon to make many decisions. Knowing what those decisions entail will enable you to plan ahead and be prepared in advance, speeding up the pace considerably.

The following is a basic list of steps in the construction process. Although various contractors may change the order slightly, the basic method remains more or less the same.

Architect - First and foremost, plan your project with a qualified architect. Design your living space based on your lifestyle, and work along with the architect. Be sure to carefully review all plans, including minor details such as layout of furniture and closets.

Permits - This step continues throughout the process, depending on the codes of your particular location. Although the long wait for permits in some areas can slow you down significantly, unfortunately, there is not much you can do about it.

Excavation - Once the plans and initial permits are in place, the excavation can begin. Apprise yourself of your contractor’s plan for excavation before the tractors start rolling in. If you prefer that construction vehicles only enter or exit from a specific side of the house, let your contractor know. Be prepared for destroyed landscaping around the area; it may be worthwhile to state specifically in the contract that you expect to have the lawn reseeded after the project’s completion.

Footing, Foundation - After the excavation is complete, the contractor will proceed with the placement of the actual foundation.

Framing - The skeleton of your extension or renovated rooms will be placed above the foundation. Although the best time to change your mind in the construction process is while your project is still just a blueprint, the next best thing to catch mistakes right after the framing, before any other infrastructure is put into place. Take a walk-through all through the area, making sure that the dimensions are the way you want them.

Windows - A decision you’ll want to have prepared before you reach this point. Decide what type of panes and framing you prefer. Garage doors will also be installed at this time.

Roofing, Siding - After the windows, the roof, gutters, and siding for your addition will be installed. Decide what kind of shingles and siding you will prefer.

Rough plumbing - Next, the rudiments of your plumbing systems will be put into place. Be sure that the plumber—and every worker in your home—has a clear copy of your blueprint, and is apprised of any unusual fixtures that you would like to include.

Rough electric - Although the actual fixtures will be one of the last steps in your renovation project, the initial wiring is done at this point. Fireproofing systems are also included in this step; they must be inspected and up to code.

HVAC - Now it’s time for your heating and cooling systems to be put into place. In the case of additions and renovations to existing homes, this usually just means extending the existing system to include the new area.

Insulation, Sheetrock - Once all internal wiring and plumbing is in place, the insulation can be installed, followed by the sheetrock. An inspection may follow each of these steps as well.

Doors and moldings - Another item that you will want to have selected in advance.

Interior decoration: Painting, Flooring, Furniture and Appliances - This step requires what will probably be the most intervention on your part, as you choose between different mediums for your floors, walls, and appliances. It is very helpful to complete your research and make your selections while your construction is still in the initial stages; this way, once your contractor is ready to install your floors and appliances, you will be prepared with your selections.

Final electric and plumbing - The final plumbing and electric work will be completed intermittently within the interior decoration process. Often, the final electric work is completed right after painting; final plumbing is put in after flooring.

Landscaping and Sidewalks - The final step of your renovation or addition involves the exterior of your home. This step includes repairing any damage to the landscaping, installing sprinkler system where desired, and pouring driveways and walkways when necessary.

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