Garage Addition Update: Understanding Project Timelines
The latest project at Howland Homes is a garage addition designed to blend seamlessly with the existing home while providing functional space for storage and vehicles. With the foundation poured and framing completed, the project is well underway. Like any construction project, the early stages progress quickly, generating excitement for homeowners. However, once rough framing is complete, the pace naturally slows. This shift isn’t a setback—it’s a necessary transition to ensure every detail is executed with precision before moving forward.
Demolition & Foundation
The first phase of the project involved selective demolition, including portions of the existing siding and sections of the concrete driveway to make room for the new structure. With the site cleared and prepared, the foundation was poured, setting the stage for vertical progress. A strong foundation is the backbone of any successful build, ensuring the structure’s longevity and stability.
Rough Framing: Fast Progress in a Single Day
One of the most exciting milestones in a construction project is framing. For this garage addition, framing crews wasted no time—trusses were delivered the same day framing began, allowing the team to fully frame the garage within a single day. This rapid transformation often sets high expectations for continued progress at the same speed, but as the project moves into the next phases, the pace naturally changes.
Staying on Schedule
Seeing a fully framed structure take shape so quickly builds anticipation for homeowners. Careful scheduling keeps each phase of the project moving forward, allowing for a steady transition from one stage to the next. However, it’s important to recognize that while framing happens quickly, the next steps—mechanical rough-ins, inspections, and finishing work—require a different approach. Quality craftsmanship demands attention to detail, which means slowing down to get things right.
The Transition from Fast Progress to Fine Details
After framing, the project enters a phase where progress is less visually dramatic but equally important. Electrical and plumbing rough-ins require precise coordination to ensure that every outlet, switch, and fixture is installed exactly as planned. This is when we walk the client through the space to confirm details discussed during the planning phase, making any necessary adjustments before insulation and drywall conceal everything. Inspections from county officials are another factor that can affect timelines, as each municipality has specific codes that must be met before moving forward. Ensuring compliance is a top priority, as it guarantees a safe and high-quality build.
Conclusion: The Value of Project Management
Managing expectations during a construction project is just as important as managing the build itself. While some phases move quickly, others require careful planning, inspections, and adjustments. At Howland Homes, project management is more than just scheduling work—it’s about clear communication with clients, trades, and inspectors to ensure every stage is executed with precision. Regular job site visits, quality checks, and adjustments along the way ensure that the final product meets both the homeowner’s expectations and our high standards. A well-built home isn’t just about speed—it’s about taking the time to do things right.
