Construction Phases: From Breaking Ground to Moving In
Once the designs are finalized and permits secured, the exciting phase of bringing your new home to life begins. At Renew Altadena, we manage every aspect of construction, ensuring a seamless, high-quality build that reflects your vision and stands strong for years to come. Here's what the rebuilding process typically looks like, from the moment we break ground to the day you step into your renewed home.
Phase 1: Breaking Ground & Foundation
This stage sets the literal and figurative groundwork for your new home.
Site Preparation & Utilities: Even after debris removal, the site needs final preparation. We'll mark out the exact footprint of your home. Necessary temporary utilities (power, water) will be established, and connections to permanent systems like sewer, water, and gas will be prepared according to your plans.
Excavation: We'll precisely dig out the areas for your foundation, basement (if applicable), and any other subterranean elements.
Foundation & Slab Pour: Following the approved structural plans and essential soil compaction reports, we'll build the forms for your foundation. This involves installing rebar (steel reinforcement) and other structural elements, followed by pouring the concrete for your foundation walls and/or slab. This is a critical step, requiring meticulous accuracy and inspections.
Phase 2: Framing & Rough-Ins
Your home's skeleton takes shape, and its vital systems are laid out.
Framing: This is when you truly start to see your home rise! Our skilled framing crews will construct the walls, floors, and roof structure using lumber or steel, strictly following your architectural blueprints. This defines the rooms, ceiling heights, and overall layout.
Roof Sheathing & Exterior Wrapping: Once the framing is complete, the roof will be covered with plywood or OSB sheathing, followed by a weather-resistive barrier (house wrap) on the exterior walls. This protects the structure from the elements.
Rough-In Inspections (Plumbing, Electrical, HVAC): Before the walls are closed up, specialized subcontractors will install the core systems:
Plumbing: All water supply lines, drainpipes, and vent pipes are installed inside the walls, floors, and ceilings.
Electrical: Wiring for outlets, switches, lights, and appliances runs throughout the framed structure.
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning): Ducts for heating and cooling are installed, along with vent systems.
Each of these "rough-in" installations undergoes a mandatory inspection by the LA County Department of Public Works (Building and Safety Division) to ensure compliance with current codes.
Phase 3: Exterior & Interior Enclosure
Your home becomes weather-tight and insulated.
Windows & Doors: High-quality, energy-efficient, and fire-resistant windows and exterior doors are installed, sealing the openings and providing security.
Roofing: The chosen roofing material (e.g., fire-rated tiles, metal, or shingles) is installed, providing crucial protection and contributing significantly to the home's fire resilience in Altadena.
Exterior Siding/Finish: Your selected exterior materials – whether stucco, stone, siding, or a combination – are applied. Our team prioritizes ignition-resistant materials that meet LA County Fire Code requirements for homes in high fire hazard areas.
Insulation: Once exterior finishes are substantially complete and rough-in inspections passed, insulation is installed in walls, ceilings, and floors. This is vital for energy efficiency and soundproofing. A dedicated insulation inspection will also occur.
Drywall Installation: Drywall (also known as gypsum board or sheetrock) is hung on the interior walls and ceilings, transforming the framed spaces into defined rooms. This is taped, spackled, and sanded to create smooth surfaces ready for finishing.
Phase 4: Interior Finishes & Utilities Completion
The interior of your home comes to life with aesthetics and functionality.
Interior Doors & Trim: All interior doors are installed, followed by trim work like baseboards, door casings, and window sills.
Painting: Walls and trim are primed and painted with your chosen colors.
Flooring: Final flooring materials—hardwood, tile, carpet, etc.—are installed.
Cabinetry & Countertops: Kitchen and bathroom cabinets are installed, followed by your selected countertops.
Fixture Installation: Plumbing fixtures (sinks, toilets, showers), electrical fixtures (light switches, outlets, light fixtures), and HVAC registers are installed.
Utility Connections & Testing: Permanent connections to all utilities are made and thoroughly tested to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Phase 5: Landscaping & Final Touches
The last elements come together, inside and out.
Hardscaping: Patios, walkways, driveways, and other paved surfaces are installed.
Landscaping: This includes grading, irrigation systems, planting, and incorporating fire-wise landscaping principles appropriate for Altadena's environment. This may involve selecting drought-tolerant and less flammable plants, and maintaining defensible space around the home.
Final Cleaning: The entire home undergoes a thorough professional cleaning, inside and out, making it move-in ready.
Phase 6: Final Inspections & Move-In
The culmination of the entire rebuilding process.
Final Inspections: The LA County Department of Public Works (Building and Safety Division) conducts comprehensive final inspections to ensure every aspect of your new home meets all applicable codes and approved plans.
Certificate of Occupancy (CO): Once all final inspections are passed, the county issues the Certificate of Occupancy. This is the official document stating that your home is safe and ready for habitation.
Final Walkthrough & Handover: We'll conduct a detailed final walkthrough with you. This is your opportunity to inspect everything, ask questions, and learn about your new home's features. We'll address any last-minute items and provide you with all warranty information and an owner's manual for your home's systems.
Move-In: With the CO in hand and your walkthrough complete, your beautiful, renewed Altadena home is officially yours to enjoy!
At Renew Altadena, we're more than just builders; we're your partners in transforming a challenging situation into a new beginning. We manage these phases meticulously, ensuring quality, compliance, and transparent communication every step of the way.