Grey Structure vs Finishing: Where the Money Goes
Roughly 55% of a build is structure, 30% finishing and 15% labour and services — with the traps inside each.
2026-10-26 · Cost
Structure
Concrete, steel, bricks and plaster. Steel is the volatile line — it can move 20% in a season.
Finishing
Flooring, kitchen, bathrooms, doors and paint. This is where taste costs money, and where most overruns happen.
Labour
Mason, helper, steel fixer and electrician. Pay against verified work, not promises.
Which comes first?
Structure always. Never finish a floor before the slab above is done.
Can I finish later?
Yes — many owners live in a grey structure and finish floor by floor.