Building construction stages vs. renovation stages: Useful insights for homeowners

Constructing a building and renovating an existing structure involves different planning and execution stages. It’s important for homeowners to understand these distinctions so they can effectively manage such projects when needed. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between the stages of construction and renovation for buildings

Building construction stages

1. Substructure: Substructure serves as the critical link for distributing building loads and anchoring the superstructure. It also points out that despite being hidden from view, the Substructure requires special attention in design to accommodate the form and layout of the superstructure.
2. Plinth-level structure: It serves to protect the superstructure from potential dampness that could arise from direct contact with the ground. The inclusion of a damp-proof course at the top plinth level offers additional protection against moisture. The text is coherent and grammatically sound, effectively conveying the critical role of the Plinth height in safeguarding the building’s integrity.
3. Superstructure: It is an upward extension of an existing structure above a baseline. This could mean erecting the support pillars, roof and flooring for the home.  
4. Masonry construction: Masonry units such as bricks, concrete blocks, or stones are laid individually and are usually bound together with cement mortar. 
5. Electrical & plumbing: As the name suggests, in this phase of the project, the electrical lines and plumbing pipework are laid. At this stage, the wiring work should be completed. Also, this is the stage to ensure water pipe connectivity to various faucets and outlets around the home. 
6. Plaster application: A layer of plaster is applied to the interior and sometimes exterior surfaces of the building’s walls and ceilings in this stage. 
7. Waterproofing: Using specialised techniques and materials, you can prevent water from penetrating the home. This is the perfect stage to undertake such waterproofing. 
8. Flooring and tiling: Flooring refers to either the material used to permanently cover a floor or the act of installing that material. On the other hand, tiling involves placing tiles or similarly shaped slabs on various surfaces, including roofs, walls, and countertops. Adding tiles can transform the appearance of your home, enhancing its visual appeal and introducing a fresh style. Over its lifespan, a floor not only bears its own weight but also supports various loads placed upon it. Given that the floor experiences the most wear and tear, selecting the appropriate material becomes crucial during this construction phase.
9. Wall putty application: Wall putty application stage prepares the walls inside the house for painting. A putty coating is applied over the plastered walls to fill any imperfections and soften the outer layer.  
10. Paint application: The wall paint application stage involves applying paint to the prepared surfaces of the walls and ceilings.

Renovation stages

1. Assessment and planning: In this stage of the project, you have to collaborate with designers to assess the availability of space. You have to outline the goals of the renovation and let the designers come up with a plan allowing for that vision to turn into reality. 
2. Design and material selection: While renovating, you will need to decide on the particular design choices and then procure materials accordingly.
3. Permits and approvals: Depending on the extent of the renovation, you may need to acquire special permits before starting with the project. Local governing authorities usually provide these permits when the planned renovation abides by the established regulations and codes. 
4. Demolition: If the planned renovation involves substantial redesign of the home, you may first need to demolish a part of the structure. This involves breaking down and rebuilding the concerned part.
5. Structural adjustments: If the renovation project makes changes to load-bearing walls, you have to include certain adjustments to ensure that the home remains structurally safe and sound even after renovation is complete.
6. Integration of new features: After the renovation is complete, you need to align appliances and other features in the space to fit with the overall look.
7. Final touches: Similar to construction, the final touches, such as interior decoration and landscaping, complete the renovated space.

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