Construction Update: The Brownstones

It’s amazing what our construction crews can accomplish in a week, here’s where things are at right now:

Block 5 foundation walls were poured. The next steps are: foundation wrap, weeping tile, installation of Telus, Shaw, gas and underground electrical.
Block 6 footings are poured and finished. The next steps are to do the foundation walls.

This is part of stage one of the five stages of development we undergo to build a new home. Here’s a look at the process:

Stage 1 – Excavation and Foundation

At this point, your home is staked out and the land is prepared for construction. Excavation is completed at this time (the removal of topsoil for construction), and concrete slabs, which will support the foundation walls, are formed and poured. Utilities like water, electricity, telephone and cable might be brought in as well.

The walls for the foundation will be erected, insulated and damp-proofed. Weeping tiles are installed, which drain ground moisture away from the home. A municipal inspection will be completed before the perimeter is filled as well.

Stage 2 – Framing and Lock-Up

At this phase of the development, exterior walls are framed and covered in exterior sheathing. The framework is actually built on the floor, one wall at a time, and then lifted into place. Roof trusses will also be brought in at this time, and installed as quickly as possible to prevent accidental damage as work progresses on the lower areas of the home.

The windows and doors will be installed, as well as the basement floor. Rough-ins are completed for electrical and plumbing services and the ductwork for HVAC is also installed.

Stage 3 – Insulation/Drywall

The key to the next couple phases of construction is proper scheduling, as a great deal of work happens during this time period. At this point, insulation of the exterior walls and roof will be done, with a vapour barrier applied (to keep out moisture). Another municipal inspection will be completed as well, and then drywall will be installed.

Stage 4 – Finishing Interiors and Exteriors

The heating and cooling systems, including fireplaces, will be installed at this point. The walls and ceilings of the home are painted, flooring is laid and the bathroom cabinets are installed. Final interior touches are completed: plumbing and electrical finishes are installed, trim is applied and doors are hung.

The exteriors are finished at this phase as well; siding is applied, eavestroughing is installed and porches/decks are built. The final lot grading will be complete, and the driveway and walkways will be poured.

Stage 5 – Pre-Possession to Possession

At this stage, finishing touches and clean-up will be done. With Genesis, you’ll do a walk-through of your home, which is perhaps the most exciting part, since you’ll get to see it for the first time. This is your opportunity to get anything fixed up or sorted out before you take possession.

Approximately 35 days prior to possession, you’ll receive a possession letter and you’ll have a short to-do list before move-in day. On the date of possession, you’ll be handed the keys—the home is now yours!

We will be doing weekly construction updates on The Brownstones, so be sure to tune in each week to our blog. If you’re not familiar with some of the lingo we’ve used, check out our Construction Glossary. Whether you’re waiting for your new home in The Brownstones, or are just interested in learning more about this project or the community of Sage Meadows, you’ll find more insight on our website here.