A guide to understanding how construction is scheduled, why activity levels vary, and how to stay informed throughout the process
What a Construction Schedule Really Looks Like
Once construction starts, it’s common to expect visible progress every day. But the reality is, a jobsite moves in phases, and the rhythm of activity can vary widely week to week. Some days may be full of workers and equipment, while others feel unusually quiet. This is normal.
Understanding how construction is scheduled and why certain delays or gaps happen can help you stay patient, informed, and confident as the project unfolds.
Typical Construction Phases and Milestones
Every project is a little different, but most follow a version of the same basic sequence:
- Site Work and Demo
Clearing the lot, demolition of existing structures, trenching utilities - Foundation
Footings, slabs, stem walls, piers, or crawlspace framing - Framing
Walls, floors, roof framing, and basic building envelope - MEP Rough-In
Running mechanical (HVAC), electrical, and plumbing lines before walls are closed - Inspections
City or county inspections must sign off on rough-in work and framing before moving forward - Insulation and Drywall
Thermal insulation installed, followed by drywall hanging, mudding, and sanding - Interior Finishes
Cabinets, flooring, paint, tile, countertops, and trim - Final Stages
Fixtures installed, appliances delivered, final coat of paint, punchlist review - Walkthrough and Closeout
Final inspections, corrections, and approvals, often including a Certificate of Occupancy if required
Each phase must be mostly completed before the next one can begin, and some require inspections before work can continue.
Why the Site Isn’t Always Active
There will be days or even weeks where not much seems to be happening. This doesn’t necessarily mean your project is delayed. Some reasons for slower periods include:
- Scheduling between trades – Only one trade can work at a time in some areas
- Drying and cure times – Concrete, drywall, paint, and tile adhesive all require wait time
- Inspection windows – Your contractor may be waiting on an official inspection to proceed
- Material delivery delays – Some items need to be on-site before the next phase begins
- Labor availability – Subcontractors may be juggling multiple projects
- Weather conditions – Rain, heat, or cold can delay outdoor work or impact curing
Unless the project has gone dark for an extended period without communication, occasional downtime is to be expected.
Understanding Jobsite Gaps
Here’s when quiet weeks are most common:
- After framing but before rough-in inspections
- Waiting for cabinetry or custom windows to arrive
- Between drywall and paint, while texture cures
- Final punchlist review, when only a few small items remain
Some owners get anxious when things seem to “stall”, but those lulls often reflect the pacing required to do the job properly.
That said, if you’re unsure why work has paused, reach out to your contractor or PM for an update. It’s reasonable to ask for context and confirm the next steps.
Material Procurement and Lead Times
Materials are rarely all ordered at once. Instead, your contractor will sequence them based on:
- Lead time (how long it takes for materials to arrive)
- Storage availability (some items are too bulky or valuable to store on site)
- Dependencies (tile install can’t happen until waterproofing is complete, etc.)
Typical long-lead items that can impact schedule:
- Custom windows and doors
- Cabinetry
- Appliances
- Stone or custom countertops
- Specialty fixtures or finishes
If any of these are owner-supplied, delays in ordering or delivery can cause a ripple effect across multiple trades.
How Construction Schedules Are Managed
Contractors manage the schedule in different ways depending on the project size:
- Gantt charts or software – Tools like Buildertrend, CoConstruct, or Microsoft Project
- Whiteboards or calendars – For smaller teams or streamlined projects
- Spreadsheet schedules – Common for smaller remodelers or owner-builders
Regardless of format, all schedules evolve. A schedule is a working document, not a fixed promise. It’s normal for dates to shift slightly based on inspections, labor, or weather.
How You’ll Stay Informed
Every contractor communicates a little differently, but here’s what to expect:
- Weekly updates – Usually via email or phone, summarizing recent progress and next steps
- On-site walkthroughs – Often scheduled after rough-in, drywall, and near the finish phase
- Change order notifications – If anything needs to be adjusted, you’ll be consulted
- Finish reminders – Your contractor may remind you when selections need to be finalized
Ask your contractor at the start of construction:
- How often can I expect updates?
- Who will send them?
- What’s the best way to communicate?
Tips for Navigating the Construction Phase
- Stay patient during planned quiet phases – They’re part of the process
- Keep your selections and orders on schedule – This helps avoid delays
- Request a copy of the project schedule – Even a simple one helps you follow along
- Check in during major transitions – Like before tile starts, after framing, or before cabinetry install
- Build in buffers – Especially near the end. Final inspections and punchlist work often take longer than expected
What’s Next: FF&E Overview
Fixtures, Furniture & Equipment can affect your schedule more than expected. Delays with a single item (like a faucet or cabinet pull) can hold up an entire phase. Whether you’re supplying items yourself or relying on your contractor, understanding FF&E coordination is critical.
Continue to FF&E Overview to learn how to manage selections, deliveries, and install timing without derailing your construction schedule