Materials and the stages of a build

Knowing the order of building work helps you follow progress and spot problems early. It also helps you buy materials at the right time.

By the end, you will be able to name the main stages of a build. You will also know how to choose, order and store materials well.

The usual stages of a new build

Most new buildings follow a similar order. Each stage depends on the one before it.

• Site preparation: clearing the land, marking out the building and checking the ground.
• Foundations: the base under the building that spreads its weight into the ground.
• Structure or frame: the walls, columns, beams and floors that hold the building up.
• Roof: the cover that keeps out rain and sun.
• First fix: running pipes, wires and ducts inside walls and floors before they are closed.
• Plaster and screed: smooth coats on walls and level layers on floors.
• Second fix: fitting switches, sockets, taps, toilets, kitchens and doors.
• Finishes: painting, tiling, flooring and final cleaning.

Renovations use many of the same stages, but often start with careful removal of old parts. This is called stripping out or demolition.

Why the order matters

Doing stages out of order wastes money. For example, if walls are plastered before the wiring is checked, they may need to be opened again.

Some stages should be inspected before the next one starts. Foundations, the structure, and hidden pipes and wires are common examples. Ask your engineer or the relevant local office which inspections your project needs.

Choosing the right materials

Good materials suit your climate, your budget and the way you will use the building. Ask your designer or engineer to name the materials in the drawings or in a written list. This list is often called a specification.

When you compare materials, think about:

• Strength and safety, especially for the structure and roof.
• How well they handle heat, cold, rain and damp in your area.
• How long they last and how easy they are to repair.
• Whether replacement parts will be easy to find later.

Cheaper materials can cost more over time if they fail early. Spend more on parts that are hard to replace, such as foundations, structure and roofing.

Buying and ordering

Decide early whether you or your builder will buy materials. If the builder buys them, ask to see receipts or price lists.

Order materials in good time so work does not stop. But do not order everything at once if you have nowhere safe to store it. Order a little extra of items such as tiles, which can be hard to match later.

Check each delivery against your order before you sign for it. Look for damage, wrong sizes and missing items. You can find suppliers on our building materials page.

Storing materials on site

Poor storage damages materials and wastes money. Keep cement and plaster dry and off the ground. Cover timber and stack it flat. Store steel where it will not rust.

Keep valuable items locked away, because theft from building sites is common. Keep a simple record of what arrives and what is used.

Common mistakes

• Closing up walls and floors before hidden work is checked. Arrange inspections before each stage is covered.
• Buying the cheapest structural materials. Spend more on parts that are hard to replace.
• Accepting deliveries without checking them. Compare every delivery with your order before you sign.

Key points

• Building work follows a set order, and each stage depends on the one before.
• A written specification helps you choose and compare suitable materials.
• Check, store and record materials carefully to avoid waste and theft.