The 35 Steps to Building a House: Your Start-to-Finish Guide

Steps 15-22: Installing critical systems

Step 15: Install HVAC system

The HVAC technician will come in to install ductwork throughout the house. The air handler, condenser, and trim work will be installed as well.

Step 16: Rough plumbing

A plumber will come in and run pipes to the bathrooms, kitchen, and laundry room. They will also install sewer lines, vents, and bathtubs.

This step can be done while the doors and windows are being installed.

Step 17: Have an inspector evaluate the new plumbing

Although a licensed plumber may have done the work, an inspector will have to come in and inspect the work to make sure everything is done correctly.

The inspector will look for leaks and will ensure that the drains, sewage, and vent pipes pass a pressure test.

Step 18: Install electrical wires and panels

This stage is when all of the electrical work is done.

The wires are run through the walls and ceilings. The HVAC is hooked up (including the thermostat), and the fans, lights, electrical outlets, external electrical work, and the circuit breaker are also hooked up and ready to go.

Step. 19: Get an HVAC and electrical inspection

Once the HVAC and electrical work are complete, an inspector will come out and make sure these systems work properly and are completed to code.

Step 20: The roof is put on the home

The sheathing for the roof is generally done when the exterior sheathing is attached to the walls.

During this stage, the roof will be completed. Roofers will install the flashings and asphalt shingles — but other materials may be used, such as clay or concrete tile, slate, metal, or wood.

Step 21: Insulation is installed

The type of insulation your home will need is going to depend on your location.

Usually, insulation is applied to interior walls, the attic, basement, crawl space, and exterior walls (if it wasn’t applied before the sheathing).

The most common types of insulation are fiberglass, cellulose, or foam spray insulation.

Fiberglass insulation is used in unfinished walls, floors and ceilings. It comes in rolls and is installed in-between studs, joists, and beams. The average cost for fiberglass insulation is between $0.30 to $1.50 per square foot.

Cellulose insulation is used in existing and enclosed walls or new open cavities in the wall. This insulation can be used in unfinished attic floors and other hard-to-reach places. This type of insulation can be poured, but is usually blown into place using special equipment. The average cost of cellulose insulation is about $0.60–$2.30 per square foot.

Spray foam insulation is much like cellulose insulation, as it can be applied in enclosed, existing walls, new wall cavities, and unfinished attic floors. It is applied using a spray container (for smaller areas) or a pressure spray product (for larger areas). The average cost of spray foam insulation is between $1 to $2 per square foot.

Step 22: Drywall is hung

Drywall is hung throughout the interior of the house, as well as on the ceiling.

Step 22b: The walls and ceiling are textured

After the drywall is hung, a texture may be sprayed on the drywall. Then, the walls are primed so they can be painted.