General construction: how buildings go together
How a building goes together, from ground to roof
Construction follows a logical order, because each stage depends on the one before and hides what is beneath. This map of the sequence helps owners plan, buy and inspect at the right moments.
Construction follows a logical order, because each stage depends on the one before and hides what is beneath. This map of the sequence helps owners plan, buy and inspect at the right moments.
The usual order
- Site preparation: clearing, access, utilities, grading.
- Foundation: excavation, footings, slab or walls. See foundation types.
- Structure: framing or masonry walls, floors, roof structure.
- Weather-tight shell: roof covering, wall barriers, windows and doors.
- Rough-in: plumbing, electrical, HVAC inside walls. See plumbing and electrical.
- Insulation and air sealing after rough-in inspections.
- Interior finishes: boards, flooring, paint, cabinets.
- Fixtures, commissioning and handover.
Inspection points
Several stages are covered by the next one, so inspect before closing: footing and reinforcement before concrete, framing and rough-in before insulation, insulation and air barrier before boards.
Buying in order
Long-lead items such as windows, doors and framing packages must be ordered months ahead of their stage. See long-lead planning and the procurement schedule guide.
Factory-built shortcuts
Prefab and modular approaches move stages into a factory, running them in parallel with site work. See prefab vs site-built.
Close-out
Finish with a snag list, test results, manuals and warranties. See the snagging checklist.
Quick answers
- How long does a building take? It depends on size, system, weather, permits and supply. Ask for a programme from the contractor.
- Which stage is most often delayed? Permits and long-lead orders are common causes; plan them first.
- When should I inspect? Before any stage covers the previous one.
Keep reading
- Foundation types explained: slab, crawlspace, basement and piles
- Plumbing rough-in overview
- How to build a materials procurement schedule
- Snagging and handover checklist
Always check the project drawings and specification, and confirm requirements with the engineer of record and the local authority.
Questions people ask
How long does a building take?
It depends on size, system, weather, permits and supply. Ask for a programme from the contractor.
Which stage is most often delayed?
Permits and long-lead orders are common causes; plan them first.
When should I inspect?
Before any stage covers the previous one.
Sources and further reading
Have a project outline or drawings?
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