The involvement of an investor in house construction begins even before commissioning the project. The open shell stage precedes the closed shell stage and follows the zero stage. Construction phases are distinguished to separate the process and establish a work schedule. For an average construction project, reaching the open shell stage takes about 4-5 months. What work must be completed to reach this stage of construction?
The zero stage is when all earthworks on the construction site have been completed, as detailed previously, and the foundations have been laid. This enables further work leading to the open shell stage, which usually takes about 2 to 3 months.
This stage can be considered reached when the load-bearing walls, the ceiling (or ceilings in the case of multi-story buildings), the roof truss, roof covering, chimneys, and concrete interior stairs have been built. At the open shell stage, windows and gutters are often already installed or at least planned, and insulation – both for the foundations and water-sewage – should be completed. Balconies are also constructed at this stage.
The work involved in reaching the open shell stage consists mainly of fundamental activities that shape the structure of the house. The installation of the roof and pouring of the ceilings, as well as creating stairs, provide a semblance of a true single-family home. The next stages, mainly involving the installation of systems and other necessary amenities for the property’s functionality, are part of the closed shell stage. If you are unsure when your property reaches the open shell stage, consult your designer or construction team.
Be careful to minimize mistakes during the open shell stage, as this is where significant time savings can be made. The work must be done solidly, but it is typical enough to be carried out efficiently. Delays at this stage will likely extend the planned completion time of the entire project. Avoid, for example, a situation where work cannot continue due to the late ordering of materials.
Errors can also significantly affect the quality of the building. A solid structure is the basis for safety and durability. Do not carry out masonry work during frosts, as this poses a direct risk of reducing the strength of the ceilings. Pay special attention to the walls, which are responsible for the stability of the structure and ensure that the built house lasts for many years. Walls must be precisely leveled and aligned. Do not skip waterproofing to save time, as moisture protection is essential for the comfort and durability of the property.
Supervise the construction team during concrete work. Skipping important concrete-related tasks can greatly reduce the building’s quality. Wall reinforcements are absolutely necessary to ensure stability and durability. Mistakes can also occur when preparing the concrete mix, so it is worth working with experienced professionals. Pay close attention to the roof. The truss must be constructed evenly and accurately, with careful leveling being mandatory. Without this, repairs may soon be required after construction is completed, which can be costly and undo the work already done.
If you complete the shell stage shortly before winter, securing it against adverse weather conditions becomes very important. Ensure that the structure is not left open during this period. The basic work for the open shell stage should be completed by autumn so that further work can resume in the spring. How can you secure a house for the winter?
Make sure to install full boarding on the roof and cover it with roofing felt if tiles are not yet in place. Also, cover areas with a tarp and securely fasten it to the house. If windows and doors cannot be installed, board up the openings securely, leaving small gaps for proper ventilation. Any early water supply connections to the building require disconnecting the installation during winter, as frost can cause pipe bursts, which could lead to wall damage and flooding.
Properly securing a house in the open shell stage provides a chance for it to endure the winter without damage.
