1. Excavation, foundations, and services: laying the groundwork for a durable home
This stage brings your project to life. Strong foundations are essential—they influence structural integrity, energy efficiency, and long-term durability.
Our work includes :
- preparing the access road
- excavation
- formwork and pouring of foundations
- well installation
- sanitary system installation
- backfilling around the foundations
2. Framing and building envelope: the home takes shape
This is often the most exciting stage for our clients—the home truly begins to take form.
Our work includes:
- complete structural framing (walls, floors, roof)
- high-performance insulation
- installation of doors and windows
- concrete slabs
- interior partitions
At this stage, LEED and Novoclimat standards are already evident. The building envelope plays a key role in energy performance, and this is where our expertise stands out—through airtightness quality and precise installation.
3. Mechanical systems: everything that makes your home work
The interior structure progresses, and essential systems are installed. We coordinate all specialized trades to ensure every component is placed correctly, according to plans and client needs.
- plumbing
- electrical
- ventilation (HRV)
- installation of fireplaces and gas lines
4. Pre-drywall inspections: complete quality control before closing the walls
Before drywall installation, it is essential to confirm that everything meets standards and is optimized. This walkthrough is highly appreciated, as it allows technical adjustments before elements become permanent.
- LEED inspection by an external verifier
- independent Novoclimat inspection
- blower door test (airtightness)
- pre-drywall walkthrough with clients
5. Drywall, joint finishing, painting, and exterior cladding
Once inspections are completed, walls are closed and the home moves toward its final appearance. Your house begins to reflect its architectural style.
Work completed:
- drywall installation
- joint finishing
- first coat of paint
- exterior finishes: wood siding, masonry, steel, roof finishing, and more
6. Interior finishing: character and warmth
This is where the project becomes truly personal and starts to feel like home. Every aesthetic choice integrates seamlessly into the overall design.
We entrust trusted partners with work requiring specialized trades.
Including:
- tiling
- masonry
- cabinetry
- staircases
Our carpenters install:
- hardwood flooring
- paneling
- interior woodwork
Electricians, plumbers, and ventilation specialists complete their final finishes, install fixtures, and finalize connections to bring systems online.
7. Commissioning, final inspections, and home preparation
Before key handover, we test and commission all systems:
- air exchanger
- heating
- plumbing
- ventilation
- fireplaces
Independent inspectors then complete the final LEED and Novoclimat inspections. A full site clean-up is also performed.
8. Key handover: completing your project
We conduct a full walkthrough of the home with you. This is a meaningful moment for both our clients and our team.
You receive:
- the GCR pre-acceptance document (Residential Construction Warranty)
- system operation explanations
- maintenance recommendations
9. Final certification: LEED, Novoclimat, and official documentation
Écohabitations Boréales then submits your complete file to obtain official certifications. If desired, you may receive the LEED plaque (if applicable), the scoring file, and energy performance documentation. Once certified, you may apply for Novoclimat financial incentives. Your home is officially recognized for its construction quality and energy efficiency.
A rigorous, transparent, performance-driven construction process
A well-managed construction site is more than a series of technical steps—it is a human experience. We guide you, keep you informed, and build a solid, high-performance, and durable home, meeting the highest industry standards.
Would you like to discuss your project?