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:: Nmarkers on tasks to ensure they appear under the correct phase on the dashboard.