Your Self Build Project – Build stages
Deciding to Self-Build is an exciting and scary process there are many things to consider before during and after you begin your build and with as with any profession there is a lot of technical jargon used throughout the process.
The timbertecs team have broken the stages down in a quick and easy reference guide to help explain what exactly some of these stages are and what they entail.
Remember we are here to make your project as easy as possible from initial design right through to full Project Management if you need any help at any stage feel free to contact us.
Finding Land
Finding land in the UK can be a very tricky task. Many people opt to buy land with planning permission already on it as long as the land comes with permission to build what you want on it this can be a time and cost saving method. However if the proposed planning is not what you are looking for do not presume that because planning has been granted the Local Authority will allow you to build anything.
Planning Permission
Gaining planning is the next step of your build once you have your land. It can be a time consuming and tricky process with many hurdles along the way. At timbertecs we try to make the planning process as painless as possible. We offer a full planning service nationwide. To find out more go to our
Planning Services Pages.
Building Regulations
Before you start building you must notify the Local Authority Building Control of your intentions. You will need to submit a full application and get your build signed of by the LABC before you can move in. Building Regulations are complicated and cover everything from energy ratings through to the finished structure. Need help with your Building Regulations?
Contact the
timber
tecs team.
Preliminary Works
The Preliminary works are exactly that, they involve the initial works on the site including the provision of a site hut or office with fully functioning WC facilities any safety signage that is required, fencing for the site and the provision of anything that is required to secure the site before work commences.
Enabling Works
This is essentially the preparation of the site it involves clearing the site of any trees, shrubbery or rubbish and generally making the site suitable for the ground works to begin. This can be quite tricky if the site is particularly tight or overgrown but carried out properly will help the ground works run more smoothly.
Connections to Services
Your Project Manager will arrange for the connection to all the necessary services including water, gas, electricity and sewer systems.
Ground Works
Perhaps one of the most crucial stages of the entire build is the ground works. It is vitally important that this is carried out accurately and a close eye is kept on this. Effectively this is the excavation of the site and the laying of the foundations as well as installing sewage and fresh water drainage systems.
Superstructure
This is the actual building part of your home, from timber frame erection right the way through to external cladding, timber flooring, windows and doors, soffits & fascias and the scaffolding needed during the building process. Your project manager will make sure deliveries are on time and that the work is carried out efficiently.
Builders Work
This covers any work needed on the site to enable the connection of services such as core drilling it can involve very heavy work on some sites.
Roofing
Your project manager will source all the materials needed for the roof of your home including felt, battens and tiles. Again the project managers job here is to ensure that all materials are delivered on time and that the labourers are on site when they are needed.
Joinery
Based on your specification your project management team will source all 1st and 2nd fix items including internal doors and frames, skirting, architrave, window boards, pipe boxing, staircases and any other items needed.
Floors
Finishing of the ground floor with a screed to ensure that it is level. This will eliminate problems when laying the final floor finish later on. (ie carpet/wooden flooring) Your project manager will help you source the correct kind of screed and be able to advise on the best solutions for things like underground heating systems.
Plumbing
Your Project Manager will source all 1st and 2nd fix plumbing materials and find the right labourers. Ensuring that they are all certified and registered as necessary and that the work is carried out on time and on budget. The plumbing includes pipe work, heating systems, sanitary ware and guttering.
Electrical
As with plumbing it is important that any electrical work carried out is done professionally by a fully qualified electrician. Your project manager will source all 1st and 2nd fix fittings like cabling, fuse boxes and back boxes as well as ensuring that your electricians are all fully qualified and certified.
Plastering, Ceramic Tiling, Decoration, Floor Finishes
Plastering gives the interior walls a smooth clean finish ready for decorating. After initial discussions with you, your Project Manager will source all the tiling, decoration and floor finishes for your new home. With our trade contacts you can be sure that we will get the best prices possible for you and as always your Project Manager will work to your specification and budget.
External Works
After all the building works are complete your Project Manager will arrange for the site to be levelled out and the driveways and footpaths to be laid. Leaving you ready to move into your new home.
Project Management.
Many clients believe that by project managing their own build they will save time. Unfortunately this is not usually the case. Typically a client who self manages will both run over their budget and over timescales.
With today’s busy lifestyles and demanding work schedules many people find project managing their dream home quickly turns into a nightmare. At timbertecs we take away all the stress and heartache whilst keeping you in control of the decision making.
Talk to timbertecs to discuss your dream home.
Where do I go from here?
I need house designs
I need help with my Planning Application
I need help with Building Regulations
I need all of the above
I need Project Management
For more help why not visit our Online Book Stores
Self Build Section
