Before the Kit Arrives
The kit itself is only part of the project. The work that happens before the truck shows up determines how smoothly the build goes.
Site Prep & Foundation
Level the ground, install your foundation (concrete piers, gravel pad, or slab depending on your plan), and confirm your permit is in hand. This step takes 1–3 weeks and should be done before your kit ships.
Utility Rough-In (if applicable)
If you're connecting to water, electric, or sewer, get trenching and rough-in done before the floor goes down. Much harder to do after the structure is up.
Delivery Access
Confirm the delivery truck can actually reach your site. Most kits ship on pallets via freight — you need 12+ feet of clearance and a flat approach. Have a plan for offloading (a forklift rental or a crew of 4+).
The Assembly Process
Assembly timelines vary by kit size and crew. Here's what a typical Allwood-style kit build looks like:
Day 1 — Floor Frame
Lay and secure the floor joists and floor panels. This is the foundation of everything that follows — take your time and check for level constantly. Errors here compound everywhere else.
Days 2–3 — Wall Panels
Stand and secure the wall panels. Tongue-and-groove panels lock together — start at a corner and work around. Two people minimum; three is better. Brace each wall as you go before moving to the next.
Days 3–4 — Roof Frame & Sheathing
Install rafters, ridge board, and roof sheathing. This is the most physically demanding part and the most important to get right — a watertight roof protects everything below. Install roofing material immediately after sheathing.
Week 2+ — Windows, Doors, Finishing
Install windows and doors (usually pre-hung in better kits). Then insulation, interior wall covering, flooring, and whatever electrical/plumbing your plan includes. This phase takes as long as you let it.
Tools You'll Need
What to Hire Out
Most handy DIYers can handle wall and roof assembly. These parts are worth hiring a professional for:
- Foundation work — errors here are expensive to fix later
- Electrical — required to be licensed in most states
- Plumbing connections — same licensing requirement in most places
- Roof flashing — leaks from bad flashing are the #1 kit home problem
Realistic Timeline Summary
- Small kit (under 150 sq ft) — 1–2 weekends for shell; 2–4 more weekends to finish
- Medium kit (150–300 sq ft) — 1–2 weeks for shell; 3–6 weeks to finish
- Larger kit (300–500 sq ft) — 2–4 weeks for shell; 6–12 weeks to finish
These assume a 2–3 person crew working full days. Weekend-only builds take 2–3x longer.