After the concrete for the window sills, doors, and staircases (including the landing) has been poured, these concrete sections must be sprayed with water for at least 5 days, two to three times a day. On the day following the concrete pour, the contractor removes the formwork surrounding these sills, while ensuring the sills remain properly supported.
The contractor completes the structures above the concrete sills for windows and doors, provided that the exterior walls (surrounding the building) are thermally insulated, which complements the insulation system used for the building’s walls.
If there are openings for window air conditioners, a concrete sill must be constructed above the wooden frame of the air conditioner opening.
It is advisable to provide the contractor with a copy of the HVAC plan (ductwork layout) so that he can position the duct openings within the walls, thereby avoiding the need for future demolition during the finishing phase to route the ducts.
Once all building work (walls) is complete, the entire site is cleaned in preparation for starting the ceiling work. The contractor first constructs the wooden framework for the perimeter trusses surrounding the building and all the suspended trusses. After that, the steel joists—which will support the ceiling—are installed. If the roof height exceeds 4 meters, it is advisable to use metal bracing secured by a specialized construction materials supplier through the contractor; the costs of securing this bracing must be specified in advance in the contract, whether borne by the owner or the contractor.
The wood for the ceiling is installed, and the type of wood must comply with the specifications in the contract. If you intend to install a suspended ceiling later during finishing, it is advisable to use plywood to achieve a smooth concrete surface that requires no additional finishing, as it will be covered with plaster; If you do not wish to install suspended ceilings made of gypsum or similar materials and intend to apply plaster to the ceilings, it is advisable to use regular wood to achieve a rough concrete surface, which is best suited for plastering.
