In Which Order Should You Install Utilities During a New Home Build?

November 4, 2020

As people watch their new home become reality, they often wonder how their home comes together. There is often discussion on the best order in which to install plumbing, HVAC and electrical, but in reality, they tend to overlap throughout the construction process. However, there are contractors who insist there is a correct order to new home utility installation. Here is a general description of how builders approach new home electrical installation and other steps in Oklahoma City, OK.

General process

Once the home has a structure, but before it has drywall, it is time to lay out basic lines before there are permanent and final plumbing, electric and HVAC connections. This process is called the rough-in, and it is important for correct construction. Without a good rough-in step, construction will likely turn into a disaster.
Basically, contractors will draw in lines showing where wires, ductwork and pipes will be installed. This allows them to assess whether these systems are all working together. As this occurs, all contractors and subcontractors discuss best approaches and how to make it work. In the end, they come to a consensus and plan so your home will function properly and efficiently.
After they finish this roadmap, they start installing these elements in a permanent fashion. That is when installation order comes into the picture.

Most common approaches

Gas and waste lines are usually the first to be installed. This includes venting, sewer and drain pipes.
If a home has an extra-large or complex HVAC system, it may be installed first before the gas and waste lines. That’s because HVAC is usually the most inflexible system, and it’s more difficult to change it if it must work around another system. However, if it’s not essential for HVAC to be first in installation order, then it will usually be second. This includes installing ductwork in crawl spaces and through needed parts of the home.

Plumbing supply lines are next. This includes hot and cold water pipes to all the bathrooms and kitchen.

Electrical is usually last, and always after plumbing. However, contractors cannot start on it until the home is “dried in.” This means that the home is finished enough that it will keep out wind, rain and weather in general. That’s why electrical is often done in steps as other parts of the home are finished. You cannot keep electrical components where they may be exposed to the elements.

The electrical step also includes mapping out wiring, switches, light fixtures and outlets. If you ordered special features like USB outlets or built-in surge protection, those are planned and installed during this step.

Many of these steps overlap. For example, it’s not unusual to install electrical in a closed-in bathroom while contractors still work on plumbing setup in the kitchen. If an upper story is ready for light fixture connections, that may occur while the kitchen, living room and home office are still receiving extra outlets.

New home utility installation in Oklahoma City, OK is an involved process that custom home builders have mastered. Perry House Plans includes expert attention to new home electric installation and other steps to make your new home a dream come true. Contact us today to discuss your desired home design.

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