How We Work
Ford Builders provides “turn key” building. This means we manage every aspect of construction from planning and approvals
Planning
This is the first step in our process. Assuming you have met with us and decided to use Ford Builders as your builder, we would begin with planning. Here are our main goals in this phase:
- Confirm the lot is suitable for building through the use of a soil report provided by an environmental engineer.
- Develop a final set of plans for your home.
- Develop a final set of specifications for your home.
- Complete a topographical survey of your lot, including placement of the home on the lot.
- Develop a final cost estimate based on the above information.
For homes up to 4,000 square feet, this phase usually takes 1-2 months. This depends on what stage you were at before we began our discussions.
Upon leaving this phase, our goal is to have a complete package suitable for submission to the local codes and compliance office to receive approval, as well as any other review board that may apply.
Approvals
Depending on the locality, approvals can take anywhere from 4-8 weeks. We submit to the local codes and compliance as well as any community review board at the same time to help speed this process along.
Break Ground/Site Work
Upon receiving approvals from all necessary parties, we are free to break ground. Usually at this time we ask you to be present so we can discuss which areas should be cleared of brush and trees on the lot and which should not. During this stage, we clear the lot and build the foundation for the home. This is usually a 2-month time frame. It is during this stage and the next where weather plays the largest role. It is very easy to be delayed since all work during this stage is out doors and not under roof.
Framing
Framing is probably the most exciting stage and takes anywhere from 6-8 weeks. Again, during this time it is easy for weather to play a role since all of our work is done outdoors.
At the end of this stage we request you be present for a framing walkthrough. The basic structure of the house is completed at this point, and it is very easy for you to visualize your new home.
The framing walkthrough allows you to see the sizes and shapes of the rooms and make sure they are all what you expected. At this time, we also perform a survey of planned electrical work and make sure all wiring is placed to your satisfaction.
Trades/Drywall
Once the framing walkthrough is completed, our “trades” can begin their work. Trades include plumbing, heating and air conditioning, and electrical work. Once they have completed their work, we can then insulate the home and install drywall. This whole process takes about 2-3 months.
Finish Work
Probably the longest stage of all, we request you be present at the beginning of this to do an interior trim walk through. We like to make sure all finish carpentry work planned is understood by all parties involved. This can be the most important part of the process in regards to aesthetics, as finish carpentry often times determines the look and feel of the home.
During this stage, we install all woodwork, cabinetry, flooring, plumbing and lighting fixtures, and paint the interior. This stage takes anywhere from 3-4 months to complete.
At the end of the project, we request you be present 2 weeks before your proposed move in date to complete a final walkthrough. This is your chance to pick out any items that are not exactly as you had hoped and gives us 2 weeks to correct them.
This is a general guideline, and through out the project, there will be many, many selections we keep you apprised of. All told, most of our projects from approvals to move-in take about 10-12 months.
|
