Plan your build or renovation, stage by stage

This guide is about materials. The building and fitting work is usually done by your contractor, electrician, plumber or painter. If you need help with fitting, ask the store when you enquire.

1. 01

   Stage 1: Wiring and pipe work

   Conduits, cables, switch boxes and water lines go in before walls are finished.

   Electrical conduits, switch boxes and the supply and drainage lines are laid while walls and floors are still open. Getting quantities right here saves cutting finished walls later.

   • Electrical supplies
   • Plumbing supplies

   Have this ready

   • Number of electrical points per room
   • Hot and cold water points
   • Drain positions for bathrooms and kitchen
2. 02

   Stage 2: Doors, windows and frames

   Openings are measured and frames fixed before plastering is finished.

   Doors and windows are made or chosen to fit the openings. Measure each opening's width and height and note which material you want for each.

   • Doors and windows

   Have this ready

   • Width and height of each opening
   • Material for each door and window
   • Locks, handles and other accessories
3. 03

   Stage 3: False ceilings

   Ceilings go up once wiring for ceiling lights is in place.

   If you want lights in the false ceiling, plan their positions before the ceiling is fitted, so the wiring is ready.

   • False ceiling
   • Electrical supplies

   Have this ready

   • Room sizes
   • Light positions in the ceiling
   • Which rooms get a false ceiling
4. 04

   Stage 4: Putty, primer and paint

   Surface preparation first, then finish coats.

   Walls are filled and levelled with putty, primed, then painted. Interior and exterior walls use different products.

   • Paints and painting supplies

   Have this ready

   • Wall area in square feet
   • Interior or exterior
   • Shade and finish you have in mind
5. 05

   Stage 5: Bathrooms and kitchen

   Sanitary ware, taps and kitchen units are fitted near the end.

   Toilets, basins and CP fittings are installed once tiling is done, and kitchen cabinets once the walls are finished.

   • Sanitary ware
   • Modular kitchen
   • Plumbing supplies

   Have this ready

   • Bathroom layouts and sizes
   • Kitchen shape and wall lengths
   • Sink, tap and gas point positions
6. 06

   Stage 6: Railings, fans and finishing

   Railings, switches, fans and lights complete the home.

   Stair and balcony railings, switch plates, fans and light fittings are the last items before you move in.

   • Railings
   • Electrical appliances
   • Electrical supplies

   Have this ready

   • Railing lengths and locations
   • Fans and lights per room
   • Switch plate style