Understanding each phase of home construction can transform the process from an overwhelming experience into an exciting journey. At Aria Design + Build, we’ve developed a structured 10-phase approach to guide you through every step, ensuring that we stay on schedule and that your home meets our high standards for quality and durability.
Stage 1: Preconstruction
The preconstruction phase is all about preparation and planning, where much of the behind-the-scenes work happens. This includes developing architectural and plot plans, setting budgets, making design selections, finalizing contracts, conducting team meetings, and obtaining permits. Although it might seem like not much is happening, this phase lays the groundwork for your new home.
Stage 2: Foundation
Your home’s foundation is crucial to its structural integrity. This phase, which can take between 4 and 8 weeks, involves grading the lot, setting forms, laying plumbing grounds, and pouring the concrete. We work with geotechnical and structural engineers to customize each foundation. This includes options like slab-on-grade, post-tension slabs, pier-and-beam foundations, and even suspended slabs on void boxes for added durability.
Stage 3: Frame
With the foundation complete, we start the framing process, where the walls, roof, and essential structural components are put into place. This phase is thrilling for homeowners because it’s when your home’s layout truly starts to take shape. The framing process gives your home its skeleton, providing a clearer sense of space and structure.
Stage 4: Mechanicals
This phase includes installing the systems that keep your home running: HVAC, electrical, plumbing, low-voltage wiring, and even audio-video setups. Aria also incorporates central vacuum systems and insulation during this phase. Adhering to strict quality and safety standards, we ensure that each system works seamlessly to create a comfortable and functional home.
Stage 5: Sheetrock and Exterior Finishes
Once the mechanicals are in place, we move to the insulation and sheetrock phase. Here, we focus on creating a well-sealed home to minimize energy loss. Working with energy raters, we make sure that insulation, HVAC systems, fresh air exchangers, and other elements are designed to function efficiently together. This is also when exterior finishes like siding and trim begin, solidifying the look of your home’s facade.
Stage 6: Trim, Doors, and Cabinets
Now we add the finishing touches to your home’s interior structure, installing trim, interior doors, and cabinetry. This phase brings out the style and details that make your home uniquely yours, from custom cabinetry to tailored trim styles that add personality and elegance to each room.
Stage 7: Paint and Countertops
The color and surface selections you made earlier come to life during this stage. Our team coordinates with painters to deliver any specialized finishes you may have requested, giving you creative flexibility. Countertops, chosen earlier in the process, are also installed to ensure a seamless finish that meets your design vision.
Stage 8: Fixtures and Flooring
In this phase, we install all fixtures, including lighting, plumbing hardware, and flooring. This is where your home’s style truly shines, with every detail from flooring materials to light fixtures adding to the final look.
Stage 9: Builder Acceptance
Builder Acceptance is a milestone phase that follows rigorous quality checks. Before we invite you for the homeowner walkthrough, our team completes an internal punch list and inspections by third-party inspectors, engineers, and city officials. This ensures that every aspect of the home is in top condition.
Stage 10: Homeowner Introduction
The final stage includes a comprehensive homeowner walkthrough and orientation. We’ll introduce you to every part of your home, explain maintenance requirements, and review warranty information. This orientation typically takes 4 to 8 hours, depending on your home’s size and complexity, ensuring that you feel comfortable and confident in your new space.