The scheduling of contractors is not something that can be handled willy-nilly. There is a standard sequence in which interior work always proceeds. If you ignore this sequence you will do so at your own peril. The following is the standard sequence for scheduling contractors.

Demolition – On a remodeling project demolition comes first. You may want to save materials that are in good condition if you need to patch remaining area later on.

Carpenters – To do rough framing of new walls and straighten floors and ceilings.

Insulation – Insulation must be done while walls and ceilings are still open.

Plumbers and electricians – To do the rough in of pipes, wiring, and heating systems before walls are closed in. Normally the plumber has the right of way since he relies on the pitch of the pipes to drain properly. Bathtubs are installed before the walls are finished.

Wallboard – Installation of wallboard along with the enclosing of mechanical and electrical systems

Plasterers – Finish wallboard

Electricians and plumbers – Return to do finish work, install fixtures, switches, surface outlets, appliances and radiators.

Carpenters – Return to do finish work such as baseboards, doors, moldings and cabinetry. New floors are then laid.

Painters – Paint finished walls, ceilings and woodwork.

Floor finishing – This comes last

Exterior Work

Any exterior work proceeds at it’s own pace along with the rest of the project and is more flexible than the interior work. The first thing to be done is usually work on the roof and gutters. Insulation is installed before repairs are done on siding or exterior finish. Then after the exterior finish is completed any required painting is done.

Get subcontractors together at the beginning to talk about relating tasks. For example, your electrician may need to do wiring for a pump or control systems which will be needed by the heating man. The heating man may need to talk to plumber about the cold water supply to the boiler. The installer for the alarm system may need to coordinate with the electrician.

Experienced subcontractors are used to interrelating work but you need to facilitate the communication at the beginning to make sure work is coordinated.

Another important point to remember is that tradesmen don’t like to shuttle back and forth between jobs. It is a much better use of their time to complete their stage of the work in one uninterrupted block of time. If a contractor has to stop because of scheduling problem on your part, it might be hard getting him back quickly. If you will be organized, flexible, forthright, and tactful you will have a much easier time getting along with subcontractors and keeping your project on schedule.

Article originally published at Source by Shawn Meldrum