Our Home Building Process | Tri-River Construction Montana

Inside The Build:
A Complete Project Walkthrough

Take a behind-the-scenes look at one of our full custom home builds

from breaking ground to the final walkthrough,
this 24-step photo series walks you through each major phase of the Project

A Step-By-Step Look At Our Dream Home Building Process

Let's Get Started:

Initial Planning & Design

Discuss home design, layout, and features that match your vision and budget
Select a pre-designed floor plan or work with an architect/draftsman to create a custom home
Ensure the design meets zoning laws, HOA rules (if applicable), and energy-efficiency standards

Site Selection & Land Preparation

Evaluate the land for suitability (topography, soil conditions, drainage)
Determine access to utilities (water, sewer, power, internet)
Clear the lot of trees, brush, and large rocks
Rough grade the land to prepare for excavation and foundation work

Bidding & Budgeting

Obtain detailed bids from subcontractors (excavation, concrete, framing, plumbing, etc.)
Finalize the total construction cost and financing
Secure a construction loan (if needed) and finalize contracts

Permits & Approvals

Submit applications for:
Building permits
Septic system permit (if applicable)
Well permit (if applicable)
Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits
Conduct soil tests and site surveys if required

Excavation & Site Work

Stake out the foundation perimeter based on the blueprints
Excavate for footings and foundation
If a basement is included, excavate to the required depth

Run Utilities, Septic, and Water

Install Septic System if applicable
Dig trenches for City Water and Sewer
Drill Well if needed
Temporary Power from Northwestern Energy

Footings Installation

Set footer forms to width and thickness determined by Geotechnical Report if required
Install rebar reinforcement to engineered requirements
Pour concrete footings to distribute the weight of the home evenly

Foundation Walls Construction

Set up Forms for foundation walls
Ensure structural integrity with vertical and horizontal rebar and anchor bolts to engineered requirements
Install Seismic Anchors and/or Straps to engineered requirements
Allow proper curing time before the next phase

Waterproofing & Drainage

Apply waterproofing membrane to foundation walls
Install drainage pipes and gravel backfill to prevent water buildup (if necessary)
Set up sump pump (if necessary)

* Basement or Slab Preparation
- If the home has a basement:
- Pour the basement slab
- Install basement insulation and vapor barriers
- If the home is built on a slab:
- Level and compact the soil
- Lay insulation and a moisture barrier
- Pour the slab

Exterior Framing – Floors and Walls

Install pony walls, floor joists, and subflooring
Frame and stand exterior walls
Sheath Walls with Proper Nailing Patterns for City Codes
House Wrap Vapor Barrier

Interior Framing – Walls, Supports, and Chases

Frame Interior Walls
Ensure Chases are present for Utilities
Place Beams and Structural Supports to ensure proper load transfer

Roofing System – Setting Trusses

Set Roof Trusses
Install required Blocking and Cross Braces
Install Hurricane Straps
Overbuild to Align rooflines and complete Eves

Dry- In Windows, Exterior Doors, and Roofing

Install windows and exterior doors to enclose the structure
Install underlayment for moisture protection
Apply shingles or metal roofing

Utility Rough-Ins (Plumbing, Electrical, HVAC)

Install plumbing pipes and drain lines
Run electrical wiring and set up breaker panels
Install ductwork and HVAC components
Conduct rough-in inspections before closing walls

Insulation & Vapor Barriers

Install insulation in walls, attic, and floors
Apply vapor barriers to prevent moisture buildup

Exterior Finishes

Apply siding, stonework, or brickwork
Complete Trim, Soffits, Facia, and Gutters
Paint exterior walls and trim

Drywall Installation & Finishing

Hang drywall throughout the home
Tape, mud, and sand seams for a smooth or textured finish

Interior Finishes – Trim, Shelving, and Paint

Install interior doors, trim, and baseboards
Build permanent shelving if desired
Paint walls, ceilings, and doors if necessary

Flooring – Hard Floors, Carpeting and Tile

Prepare Subfloor with proper underlayment for different applications
Install flooring – Hardwood, LVP, Carpet, and/or Tile

Kitchen & Bathroom Installations

Install Kitchen Cabinets and Bathroom Vanities
Install Countertops and Backsplashes
Tile Shower Walls if necessary
Install Cabinet Handles, Soap Trays, and all other Hardware

Final Mechanical, Plumbing Work, & Electrical Work

Connect HVAC system and test for efficiency
Test plumbing for leaks and proper function
Install outlets, light switches, and ceiling fans
Mount pendant lights and chandeliers
Complete electrical panel connections

Final Touches and Installations

Handrailing
Towel Bars
Fireplace and Mantel
Oven Hood
Appliances

23. Driveways, Patios, & Landscaping

Pour concrete for driveways and walkways
Install grass, trees, and garden beds

Final Walkthrough & Inspections

Conduct a final building inspection to ensure everything meets code
Walk through the home with the client to address any last-minute concerns

Let’s Bring Your Vision To Life

Contact Us

Phone:

(406) 671-4665

Mail Us:

[email protected]

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