Today continues a series about the stages of construction. Our goal is to help you understand the stages of construction, learn about how we do things and what you can expect during each stage. In this series, we will cover 5 additional stages of construction. To see the previous stages of construction, click here.

Stage 3

Introduction

In Stage 3, the rough mechanical work for the heating and air conditioning systems “HVAC” is completed and plumbing pipes, electrical wiring and low voltage wiring are installed. The roof dry-in is completed and the exterior walls are covered with a moisture barrier wrap prior to stucco or siding installation. Foam lathing & wire are then installed. The Phase II Pre-drywall Meeting with the homebuyer is also scheduled at this time.

The process of installing the mechanical “roughs” begins once the shear inspection is passed. The HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), plumbing, and electrical roughs are installed in order. Once the HVAC and plumbing roof penetrations are completed, the roof dry-in will be performed.

Plumbing lines, waste lines, and gas lines are installed within the interior wall studs prior to drywall. The plumber will install the waste lines first, water lines second and gas lines third. All plumbing lines, tubs and shower pans are put on test for any possible leaks. This test is also inspected by the local municipality building & safety inspector. The roof penetrations for the plumbing vent lines and HVAC are cut before the roof is papered or “dried in.”

The electrical roughs will begin after the HVAC and plumbing roughs are complete. All low voltage wiring is installed after the mechanical and electrical roughs are complete. Variations in framing due to a variety of reasons may cause standard phone, cable or electrical locations to vary slightly.

Typically, utility trenches are dug after the electrical rough-in is completed. These trenches are then inspected for proper location, depth and distance for gas, water and electric. The various conduits and utilities are then installed. Please keep in mind that rainy weather conditions can delay this process .

The roof dry-in is the process of installing a roof felt cover and battens. Battens are wood cleats that roof tiles sit on. This can be done only after the roof sheeting has passed shear inspection as well as the completion of all plumbing and HVAC roof penetrations. Once the roof is dried-in, the installation of the HVAC will begin The HVAC includes all ducts, vents, and furnace installation. The HVAC contractor also installs flashings as needed.

The exterior walls are covered with a moisture barrier wrap prior to lath, stucco and siding installation. The installation of exterior siding or pre-stucco lath typically takes place after the plumbing, HVAC and electrical roughs. Once the gutters, roof flashings and paper are installed, the siding or pre-stucco lath will go up on areas above the roofline.

The installation of exterior pre-stucco lath and wire is next and must be inspected and passed by the local municipality building & safety inspector before stucco is applied.

As you can see, a great deal of coordination and cooperation is required from every trade partner involved at this stage. To keep on schedule the finish materials for the home will need to be ordered in advance.

A frame inspection is required after roof tile is loaded, siding and pre-stucco lath, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical roughs are complete. Again, all rough mechanicals including plumbing, HVAC, electrical, lath materials and hardware are inspected by the local municipality building & safety inspector and your Fulton Homes Project Manager. During this phase of construction the Fulton Homes Phase 2 inspection is performed by your Project Manager for proper installation of your options and all other work performed.

In a case where an extensive network of audio/ visual or computer wiring is to be installed, you will be scheduled to meet with the low voltage wiring installer to confirm the lay out and locations of your chosen options. This meeting will be scheduled before the pre-drywall meeting with your Project Manage. Please note: this is a critical appointment.

Next, after all of the Stage 3 items are complete, you will be asked to attend a pre-drywall meeting with your Project Manager to review your home. Your Sales Associate will schedule this appointment with your Project Manager. This meeting is a good opportunity to review the entire home. At this meeting, the homeowners and Fulton Homes will compare paperwork for errors or omissions and discuss all options and upgrades.

This information is provided simply to give you a better understanding of what to expect. Feel free to just sit back, relax and be Proud to Own because we are Proud to Build for you!