These steps reflect Marcus’s proven sequence for garage builds, expanded with coordination checkpoints so tasks land in the right phase and don’t block later work.

Stage 1 — Site Prep & Planning

  • Permits, zoning, budget, schedule; 811 utility locate.
  • Stake building, confirm elevations, driveway plan, drainage.
  • Vendor outreach (HVAC, electrical); select key specs that affect rough-ins.

Vendor contact phone number redacted for privacy

Stage 2 — Pour Concrete Slab

  • Tree removal in build footprint complete (Michael Henry Tree Service).
  • Subgrade prep; R-10+ subslab insulation; 6‑mil poly vapor barrier; rebar grid/chairs.
  • Sleeves/stubs before pour: water, sewer, gas, electric, low‑voltage conduit to house.
  • Floor drains: locations, slope, exterior routing; PEX pressure test pre/post pour.
  • Lift integration: two 4’×4’ PEX‑free pads and 12” buffer; photo/sketch PEX layout.
  • Pour and cure per spec; protect slab during subsequent stages.

Stage 3 — Frame In Garage

  • Frame walls/openings; trusses/rafters; stair rough‑in; knee/guard walls.
  • Panel location and service route; block for future loads (cabinets, hose reels).
  • Rough openings for windows/doors; verify clearances for mechanical room penetrations.

Stage 4 — Roof

  • Underlayment + Ice & Water; select roof color; snow guard layout.
  • Penetrations: install 3” plumbing vent through roof (cap inside until tie‑in).

Stage 5 — Siding, Windows, Doors

  • WRB/flashing details; install windows/doors; select siding and soffit color/materials.
  • Exterior terminations: plan/mark gable‑end vents (bath, dryer, hood).
  • Exterior lighting prep: soffit lighting boxes; neutral in switch; sensor conduit as needed.

Stage 6 — After Build / MEP & Finish

  • Electrical: set service, energize panel, circuits; install/commission exterior lighting.
  • Doors: install garage door openers and test safety features.
  • HVAC: Manual J, choose heads, route linesets/condensate; install mini‑split.
  • Heat: install boiler and manifolds; venting/condensate per spec.
  • Envelope/interior: insulation strategy execution; drywall; finish devices and automations.

Notes

  • This sequence is a guide for staging tasks. Use stage:: N markers on tasks to ensure they appear under the correct phase on the dashboard.