The 12 Critical Practical Steps in the Construction Process After Design Approval

Introduction

Building construction is more than just mixing concrete and stacking bricks, as we at Jemmatech Engineering Consultants are aware. To ensure that the construction is sturdy, secure, and long-lasting, it is essential to employ a methodical, realistic, and logical approach. The building phase begins in earnest when the relevant authority has approved all architectural and structural plans.

Based on actual engineering site procedures, here is a thorough and useful explanation of the 12 essential building processes. This is the fundamental building process that guarantees a strong beginning and a steady end.

Step 1: Site preparation and clearing

What it entails:

It entails removing any plants, rocks, garbage, existing buildings, or anything that could impede development from the intended site before proceeding.

Practical Tip from Jemmatech:

Depending on the size of the site, we either utilize bulldozers or hand labor. To get rid of organic material that can break down and cause ground settlement, we remove topsoil from bushy terrain that is 200–300 mm deep.

This stage also includes:

• Establishing a site office for a temporary engineer, worker shelters, and sheds for storing materials
• Setting up a temporary electricity and water supply
• Using wood or metal sheets to build a perimeter fence for site security

Step 2: Grid staking and site layout

What it entails:

Grid lines are used to precisely mark the building’s footprint on the ground.

Jemmatech Practical Tip:

We used surveying tools like batter boards and strings, theodolites, and total stations to lay out the foundation. Batten boards, which are wooden planks with strings, work well for small projects. The axes (X & Y) from the authorized site plan are represented by these strings.

Essential actions:

• Indicate benchmarks and reference points (fixed elevation levels)
• Use the 3-4-5 triangle rule for rectangular layouts to double-check alignment and right angles.
• Throughout the project, keep batter boards intact so they can be rechecked.

Step 3: Digging Work

What it entails:

Digging soil down to the depth needed for column bases, trenches, and footings.

Jemmatech Practical Tip: Depending on the geotechnical report’s specifications, we excavate at least one meter below ground level. We install shoring (wooden or steel supports) if the excavation is deeper than 1.2 meters to prevent soil collapse, particularly if it is adjacent to existing buildings.

Depending on site access, common equipment may include excavators, backhoes, or hand-digging tools.

Step 4: PCC (plain cement concrete) laying and compacting

What it entails:

Following excavation, a lean concrete layer (PCC) needs to be applied to level and compact the base.

Jemmatech Practical Tip:

• We use rammers or mechanical plate compactors to compact the soil.
• For pest control, apply termite-repelling chemicals to the soil prior to PCC.
• Pour a PCC mix (1:4:8) consisting of cement, sand, and aggregate that is 75–100 mm thick. This guarantees a stable and even surface for the rebar installation.

Step 5: Starter bars and reinforcement of the foundation

What it entails:

Installing formwork for the footings and steel reinforcements (rebars).

Practical Jemmatech Tip:

• Adhere to the bar bending schedule (BBS) when cutting and bending high-yield steel bars 12- to 25-mm.
• To keep the concrete cover at 50 mm, supply spacers and cover blocks.
• At the specified column locations, install column starter bars and use binding wire to secure them vertically.

On-site check:

To guarantee structural integrity, we make sure all bends adhere to standard radii and that every steel arrangement matches the structural drawings.

Step 6: Concreting the Foundation and Setting Up Column Rebar

What it entails:

It entails preparing vertical columns and pouring concrete into foundation formworks.

Practical Jemmatech Tip:

• To ensure consistency, use a slump test on machine-mixed concrete.
• Use needle vibrators to remove air pockets from concrete.
• As soon as the foundation is set, begin attaching column reinforcement cages to the starter bars, making sure they are vertical and covered.

The ratio of cement, sand, and aggregate in a concrete mix is usually 1:2:4, but it can also be as directed in the design mix.

Step 7: Applying Bitumen Paint for Waterproofing

What it entails:

Putting on a waterproof coating to stop moisture from the soil from getting into the concrete.

Practical Jemmatech Tip:

• Apply two coats of bituminous paint to all substructure components, including footing and columns, after the stub columns have dried.
• To ensure good bonding, wait 24 hours between coats.

Why it matters:

It shields reinforcements from rust brought on by sulfate-rich soils and ground moisture.

Step 8: Installing a Perimeter Block Wall

What it entails:

It entails separating the internal and external ground levels by placing solid concrete blocks around the building’s perimeter.

Practical Jemmatech Tip:

• Use solid blocks that are 150 or 225 mm thick and set in a 1:1 cement mortar mixture.
• They also serve as a guide for finished floor levels and aid in keeping soil in place during backfilling.
• After laying blocks, apply a second coat of bituminous paint to the exterior faces.

Step 9: Compaction and Backfilling

What it entails:

In order to prevent future settlement, excavated areas must be filled with soil in layers and compacted.

Practical Jemmatech Tip:

Use rammers or rollers to compact each layer of backfill, which should be 150 mm thick.

Test for compaction to make sure the dry density is at least 95%.

To install formwork, stop backfilling 50–100 mm below tie beam level.

Step 10: Grade Slab Work & Tie Beam Reinforcement

What it entails:

Laying out the ground-level slab and installing the tie beams that join the column bases.

Practical Jemmatech Tip:

• Cut and secure the steel bars for the tie beams, then cover them with 50 mm of concrete.
• Place rebar grid or BRC mesh on top of the compacted ground.
• Pour grade slab concrete that is at least 100 to 150 mm thick.

Curing:

To avoid shrinkage cracks, we begin water curing two hours after the final set.

Step 11: Concreting and Reinforcing Above-Ground Columns

What it entails:

Building vertical columns from the next slab level up from the tie beam level.

Practical Jemmatech Tip:

• Build column formworks with steel panels or marine plywood.
• Before closing the form, use a spirit level or laser level to check the plumbness.
• Use buckets or pumps to pour concrete while maintaining a consistent 50mm cover.

To prevent cold joints, columns should ideally be cast in a single pour.

Step 12: Suspended Slab and Beam Construction

What it entails:

It entails creating, strengthening, and casting structural slabs and beams above ground.

Practical Jemmatech Tip:

• As shown in the drawing, fix the main and distribution bars.
• Prior to pouring concrete slabs, install PVC conduits for electrical wiring.
• Make use of scaffolding or steel props to support formwork properly.
• Before pouring, make sure the formwork is tight and deflected.

Slab thickness typically varies between 125 and 200 mm, contingent on loading and span.

Conclusion

The core of any building project is represented by the 12 steps of construction. Rushing or skipping a step can result in safety risks, budget overruns, or long-term structural problems. At Jemmatech, we prioritize methodical, hands-on work at every stage, supported by engineering know-how and actual site procedures.

Understanding this construction sequence guarantees longevity, security, and peace of mind whether you’re building a single-family home or a business establishment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is the significance of compacting prior to PCC?

To avoid future settlement, which may result in unstable foundations and cracked floors.

Q2. What are the advantages of applying termite treatment?

It shields the building from termite infestations, which shorten the lifespan of wooden structures.

Q3. Is bitumen waterproofing something I can omit?

Not advised. Over time, ground moisture can erode reinforcement and concrete.

Q4. How much time does it take to finish these twelve steps?

It can take anywhere from four weeks for small projects to three to four months for larger structures, depending on the weather and the size of the project.

Q5. Can all kinds of buildings use these steps?

Indeed. With minor adjustments based on structural requirements, this construction sequence applies to all types of buildings, including bungalows, duplexes, and commercial complexes.