Tilt-up Construction Project Considerations

tilt-up construction project considerations

tilt-up construction project considerationsConsiderations When Building a Tilt-up Project

Tilt-up construction projects come with many important considerations to keep in mind. This form of construction involves using already casted walls and joining them to come up with a complete building. These buildings are considerably easier to build and are a great attraction for many people looking to set up commercial buildings. However, as much as tilt-up projects are great for construction, your commercial builder will have to make a number of considerations before and during the construction process. This way they can provide the kind of results you want. Our Sacramento tilt-up contractors share the many different tilt-up construction project considerations.

Type of Project 

Tilt-up construction is cheap, easy to build, and great for the environment. However, this type of construction will not fit all kinds of buildings. Some will require other forms of constructions for structural reasons.

Sometimes, your Sacramento commercial builders will also look at the facilities you want to include in the project. Some facilities will dramatically increase the cost of construction such that a tilt-up project won’t make sense.  Understanding the type of project allows commercial construction companies the information they need to decide whether a tilt-up construction is ideal. 

The Client’s Needs 

The last thing a contractor wants is to build something the client does not want or need. Such a mistake can bring a lot of costly repercussions that the client might not have planned to cover. Therefore, it is important for construction companies to fully understand the client’s needs. 

During the consultation with the client, the contractor will keep in mind the client’s expectations in terms of aesthetics, applicable finishes, and budget. In the event the client’s needs cannot be accommodated by a tilt-up construction, the construction company will have the time to let them know. 

Structural Considerations 

The structural well-being of a building is one of the most important aspect in construction. McQuillan Bros, HVAC company in St. Paul, Mn advises that you will need a structural engineer on board. He or she is supposed to offer crucial advice after evaluating different aspects of the construction such as soils, to determine the floor and foundation design, carry out wall engineering, and other load-related analysis. 

It helps to have a structural engineer on site before construction starts because they can easily tell whether the project requires a tilt-up construction or not. They are also able to point out what aspects of the construction might end up taking more time and resources. 

Schedule/Key Design Considerations 

While Tilt-up projects are is known for its fast construction time, it is important to consider that a lot of time will be spent away from the construction site. For example, one tilt-up construction project consideration one should make is that once construction commences, your contractor will take more time reinforcing steel and making detailed panel shop drawings, getting them approved and fabricated before they can be delivered to the site. The length of this period will depend on the size and specifications of the building you want. 

This will lead to a lot of time wastage if scheduling is not done properly. Therefore, it helps to work with a contractor from the beginning. Have them work with a structural engineer from the start so he or she can work on the front end of the tilt-up project. 

Site Layout and Topography 

Tilt-up projects involve placing already made wall panels on a floor slab or casting beds. Each of these will require a different topography for the success of the project. For example, casting beds require plenty of flat space directly around the building. Your contractors will also need enough space for their cranes. When using a floor slab, cranes will be needed. Understanding the site layout and topography helps you decide what to use for the structural integrity of the building. 

There are many things to consider when coming up with a tilt-up project. Employing the help of a trained professional is a great place to start. Headwaters Construction is dedicated to making your tilt-up project stand out through professional service all year round.

History of Tilt-Up Construction

Tilt Up Construction

tilt-up-construction-sacramentoA History of Tilt-Up Construction

Tilt-up concrete construction is a common method of construction used today. It has given rise to many of the large buildings you see around you. However, this hasn’t always been the case. Keep reading and discover the interesting history of this construction method from its early beginnings to what it is today.

What is Tilt-Up Construction?

Tilt-up concrete construction refers to a method of building in which concrete components, such as walls and floor slabs, are cast on site before being lifted into position by cranes.

Headwaters Construction Inc., the best commercial builder in Sacramento, explains that tilt-up differs from prefab construction because, in prefab construction, concrete components are fabricated offsite in a factory. They are then transported to the construction site. In contrast, the concrete components used in tilt-up construction are cast at the construction site itself. This is before being lifted to their final positions on a building.

The very first types of buildings to be constructed using tilt-up concrete construction were warehouses and other “big box” structures due to the economies of scale that could be enjoyed on those projects.

Today, tilt-up construction can be used to put up all sorts of buildings, such as hotels, hospitals, and even homes.

The Beginning

Commercial construction using tilt-up construction as we know it was invented in 1905. Three years later, Robert Akins got a patent for this construction method.

Akins created a buzz in the construction industry when he poured wall slabs onsite and lifted them upright using tilt tables. The building he constructed was named Schindler House located in West Hollywood, California. 

Thomas Edison, the famous inventor, was so enthralled by this novel way to construct buildings that he declared that tilt-up concrete construction was the method of construction of the future. Edison constructed an entire village in Union, New Jersey, using tilt-up construction in 1908. This village is still standing to this day!

Technological advancements, such as the availability of larger cranes and concrete mixing trucks, have caused tilt-up construction to explode in popularity. The construction boom that started at the end of World War 2, together with the labor shortages caused by that devastating war, further cemented tilt-up construction’s place in society.

Recent Developments

Commercial construction using tilt-up concrete construction used to result in “boxy” exterior walls whose corners were 90-degree angles and the walls were flat.

Today, builders are no longer limited to those appearances and shapes. Instead, Headwaters Construction Inc., the best commercial builder in Sacramento, and other commercial construction companies specializing in this style of construction can deliver buildings whose window openings are elliptical or circular.

The tops of the tilt-up walls can now be curved. Several finishing options, such as exposed aggregate, stone, and brick, can all be applied to tilt-up walls. Even the color of the walls can also be customized to suit the needs of the project owner.

This variation in the structure and aesthetics of tilt-up construction shows why the method has gone beyond warehouses to buildings and homes.

Why Should You Even Consider Tilt-Up Construction?

The construction industry is very conservative, so you may be wondering why this new method of construction has caught on. Many project owners are specifically requesting for tilt-up concrete construction.

Tilt-up construction is good for building owners because the method cuts the construction duration by approximately two months. Gilmore Heating Air & Plumbing, Sacramento HVAC company explains that the method is cost-effective, efficient, safe, and quiet. It also offers architectural freedom since the onsite casting of concrete elements removes limitations due to transportation challenges and more.

These are the reason why you need to give serious consideration to tilt-up construction for your next project. If you would like to learn more about how this construction method can work for you, contact Sacramento tilt-up contractors. We can discuss with you the viability of this time-tested method for your project.

The Post-Commercial Construction Process

the post commercial construction process - Headwaters Construction

the post commercial construction process - Headwaters ConstructionWhat to Expect Post-Commercial Construction Process

Just as there is a pre-construction phase for any construction project, there is a post-construction phase that all building owners need to be aware of. Headwaters Construction Inc., the best commercial builder in Sacramento, highlights this post-commercial construction process.

Future Expansion Plans

You’ll likely make some changes to your commercial building, whether that be now or in the future.

The post-construction phase, therefore, includes a component that caters for any future expansions that may be needed. This aspect is catered for as the building is being designed. For example, Headwaters Construction Inc. may recommend that sewer lines and other utilities be run on a different side of the building so that space for an extension can be left on another side of the planned building. In this way, you will have avoided the cost of moving established utility lines when the time to expand the building comes.

Final Building Manuals and Drawings

You will be given the final schematics and drawings showing where different mechanical systems are located. Sacramento construction contractors will also give you the manuals of the different systems used. That way you will be able to use them if needed. You can always contact the commercial construction company for specific details on the project.

Training and Follow-Up

The post-construction phase involves taking you through some training to ensure that you will be in a position to use the different features. This may include smart appliances, installed in the commercial building. Our friends at Gilmore Heating, Air, and Plumbing, a residential ac company in Placerville, recommends hiring a contractor or company that guarantees a follow-up. You wouldn’t want to pay someone to complete a project and then never see them again.

Furthermore, the commercial construction company is expected to conduct some form of follow-up to confirm that you haven’t run into any issues as you use the different systems in the newly constructed building.

Post-Occupancy Review

There may come a time when your business outgrows the space, and you need to move out. The commercial builder needs to develop a plan detailing how the building can be repurposed or re-commissioned to serve other users. For example, can that building be repurposed from its planned use as a restaurant to a retail store? 

Your building is likely to be used for different purposes. So, having a post-occupancy plan makes it easier for this transition.

Final Satisfaction Review

As you may know, the warranty on the different components of your building will run their course. So, you will have to look for other ways to address any issues that arise.

The purpose of this visit is to conduct tests on different systems in the building in order to assess how they are working. Commercial construction companies also typically ask building owners lots of questions during this visit to get their views about what impressions they have about the entire building. This feedback helps the contractor to execute future projects better. You also get a chance to share your concerns and have them addressed before the project is closed.

The builder will still be available to help you if you need them. However, you may have to hire them for any additional construction services.

Don’t be put off by all the requirements for careful planning before, during, and after the commercial construction project. All those phases are intended to protect you as a building owner. If you would like help in putting together a plan for an upcoming commercial construction project, contact Headwaters Construction Inc. Our experienced professionals will work with you from start to finish, and long after that.

The Commercial Construction Process

commercial construction process

commercial construction processWhen you are thinking of constructing your first commercial building, it is easy to get overwhelmed. In order to give you a big-picture view of this entire process, Headwaters Construction, Inc., the best commercial builder in Northern California, has compiled the following overview of the commercial construction process. Read on and learn what, when, and who is responsible for the different stages of the process.

Project Planning and Development

The first phase of any commercial construction project, or any construction project for that matter, is planning and development. This phase mainly involves finding the location where you intend to construct the commercial building as well as predesigning the facility. Headwaters Construction, Inc. also recommends that you introduce your chosen architect to the general contractor at this time. If you need consulting or planning services, contact us today.

Project Design/Build

In our experience at Headwaters Construction, Inc., it is good for a contractor to work closely with the architect as the building is being designed. This collaborative exercise makes it easier for accurate cost predictions and materials choices to be made as each party benefits from the insights of the other. The design team is charged with making sure that all the designs conform to the existing building codes of the area. Some of the specific things that are done during the design/build phase include the following:

  • Construction Bidding. The design stage involves drafting bid documents and selecting a contractor who will take charge of the entire project once construction begins. Without the bid document, it is hard to ascertain project costs.
  • Project Programing. Programing makes it possible for you to get a good picture of the space available, the functional needs as well as the flexibility of the building you wish to construct. Commercial builders use the building program to give project owners an idea of the number of rooms, facility purpose, size of the building, and other such matters.
  • Project Feasibility. A feasibility study is also done to find out whether the project site is ideal for the planned project. Here, you’ll examine what amenities, such as road access, utility connections, and building orientation, will be required to make the project a success.
  • Schematic Designs. These give Headwaters Construction, Inc. a detailed breakdown of the shapes, sizes, colors, patterns, textures, and materials that will be used to bring to life the commercial construction idea that you have.
  • Design Development. Commercial construction companies undertake research or an investigation of the various materials and equipment, as well as their cost, needed during the execution of the construction project.
  • Working Drawings or Contract Documents. These contain the final specifications (specs) and the drawings that different contractors and subcontractors will rely upon when preparing their bid documents. The builder you select, such as Headwaters Construction, Inc., will also depend on these contract documents to undertake the commercial construction project. The working drawings and contract documents serve the role of keeping all contractors or subcontractors aware of the acceptable costs associated with each aspect of the project.

Pre-Construction

In order to get a good picture of what the project will cost, Headwaters Construction, Inc. recommends that you narrow down the bids to just three and analyze them in detail before selecting one.

The pre-construction stage also marks the time when you (or your representative, such as the construction consultant) obtain the required permits.

The start of the pre-construction phase is marked by the project owner notifying the contractor that the project can begin. Upon getting the green light, the contractor appoints key members of the project team. These include the project manager, the project superintendent, the contract administrator, and the field engineer.

Procurement

As the name suggests, this stage is about procuring the different materials, equipment, and the labor that is needed for the execution of the commercial construction project. A purchase order, which is an agreement between the seller or vendor and the project owner, stipulates that what has been procured meets the specs provided at a given price point.

If you opted for a Northern California commercial contractor who takes care of everything from designing to building the structure, then that commercial builder will be in charge of the procurement process. If not, the contractor may procure the needed materials and equipment through the subcontractors (specialists in aspects of the construction project, such as electrical works and plumbing) selected during the bidding phase of the project.

The Construction Phase

This step of the commercial construction starts with the superintendent holding a meeting with the different professionals earmarked to be involved in the actual construction. The meeting resolves on many issues, such as work hours, quality control, and site access and materials storage.

Thereafter, groundbreaking is done at the site. This is then followed by site excavation, concrete pouring, installation of utilities, etc. The project manager and inspectors check each phase to ascertain that it was done correctly. The commercial construction stage is deemed to have been completed once no more construction work is necessary.

The Post-Construction Phase

The experts at Headwaters Construction, Inc., explain that the post-construction phase of a commercial construction project (tilt-up construction, for example) has several things that are done before building occupants can move in. For instance, replacing a damaged lock on one of the doors, touching up the paint in one room, or even installing an appliance.

Once all the appliances, fittings and other items needed by the occupants have been put in place, the architect responsible for the construction project will proceed to issue a document called a “certificate of substantial completion.” When this certificate is issued, the commercial building will undergo a final inspection by the city’s building official.

Now that you have a general idea about the different stages of a commercial construction project, it is time for you to contact Headwaters Construction, Inc. so that we can discuss your commercial construction project. Visit our projects to learn more about our recent work. 

Construction Consultant: What Do They Do?

construction consultant - Headwaters Construction Inc

construction consultant - Headwaters Construction IncAre you new to the world of commercial construction or retail renovation? You’re probably wondering why you should hire a construction consultant for your upcoming commercial construction project. In this article, you’ll discover how a construction consultant can be an invaluable member of your team.  

Preparing Contracts and Selecting Competent Contractors

One of the important roles that a project consultant, such as Headwaters Construction Inc., performs is taking the responsibility of contracts off your hands.

When you receive bids from different contractors, the construction consultant steps in to evaluate the bids submitted. To identify the best contractors, they will review all the contractors and finally selects the most competitive one.

The construction consultant can also negotiate with other contractors in your favor. This is an invaluable role that you may not be able to perform as a project owner.

Administering the Construction Project

When construction finally begins on your commercial project, the construction consultant acts on your behalf to make sure that the contractors are fulfilling their duties. 

The commercial construction company or individual that you have hired will also inspect the project to ascertain that the contractor is working efficiently.

If for whatever reason, the contractor deems it necessary to alter the project design, he or she must ask your construction consultant for approval of such changes. Hiring a construction consultant is the way to go if you don’t want to be involved in the nitty-gritty details.

Optimizing the Construction Project

Construction consultants like Headwaters Construction, Inc. have worked on dozens or even hundreds of tilt-up construction or other commercial construction projects similar to yours. Take a look at our projects to get a general idea of some of the projects we’ve worked on. Our construction experts will tell you everything you need to know about your construction project so that you save time and money. You can trust Headwaters Construction to get the best results possible.

Conflict Resolution

Sometimes, conflicts or disagreements may arise between any of the parties involved in the commercial construction project. For example, you (the project owner) may disagree with the contractor on issues of order changes. A disagreement has the potential to derail the entire project if it isn’t resolved quickly. 

The construction consultant will step in to protect your interests and resolve the misunderstanding. Headwaters Construction, Inc. is experienced and highly competent in all aspects related to commercial construction. 

Keeping the Project on Schedule

The construction consultant will let you know if your commercial project will be finished on time. Construction consultants have no problem nudging the contractors to meet deadlines. We understand that time is money, and if a project falls behind, it can be costly. Most importantly, projects that stay on schedule make it possible for you to see an ROI sooner than later.

As you can see, the construction consultant puts your needs first. This is a valuable member of your team because some of the things that you are expected to take care of are way beyond your technical competence. So, having the right construction team goes a long way in ensuring that everything progresses smoothly. If you would like a construction consultant who gives you the peace of mind that you need for your commercial, contact us at Headwaters Construction to learn more about our consulting and planning services. 

4 Tips to Help You Design Your Commercial Office Space

commercial office space - headwaters construction

commercial office space - headwaters constructionCommercial Office Space

Whether you plan to rent your commercial office building or use it for your own company, you’ll want to create the perfect design for your space. It’s important to put in a lot of thought about what you want your commercial renovation to look like. Here are some tried and true tips recommended by Headwaters Construction, Inc., a commercial builder, to help you design your commercial office space properly.

Analyze Your Needs

Under normal circumstances, the architect or designer shouldn’t be the determinant of the appropriate design of the commercial offices. Instead, experienced commercial construction companies like Headwaters Construction, Inc. suggest that you think carefully about your actual needs and let those needs drive the design process.

For example, open floor plans are all the rage these days, but that doesn’t mean you have to use the same design principle if such a layout isn’t functional. Some types of work require privacy and concentration, so secluded offices are ideal rather than open spaces.

In short, analyze your needs and use the insights that you get to select an office space design approach that will address those needs. Our friends at Specialized Audio and Video, a Sacramento audio and video company says should consider a security system and professional audio and video installation for the conference room.

Prioritize Variety

It is hard to find a company for which an open floor design will be 100% suitable for all their employees or a company in which only closed-off spaces are ideal.

For this reason, the best California commercial builder recommends that as you design the commercial office space, keep variety in mind and get the best of both worlds (open spaces and spaces that allow privacy).

How much space should be devoted to an open-space design, and how much should be allocated to the provision of privacy? This question can best be answered by looking at the results you obtained when you analyzed the specific needs of your company.

For instance, a larger portion of the office space can be allocated to open spaces if most of your employees travel for business. This is because creating private offices for each of the road warriors wouldn’t be an economical use of your premises since these individuals will be away most of the time.

See Your Tomorrow

It would be a big mistake if you designed the commercial office space based on your current needs alone. This is because the needs of your company are constantly in flux, so an office that was designed to meet the current needs will quickly outlive its usefulness since tomorrow’s needs are likely to differ starkly from the needs of today.

For example, many of your current employees may be older individuals who prefer a private office. A few years down the road, you may have new employees who prefer an open and collaborative space.

In such a case, you can design the commercial office space in a way that will allow you to combine two or more offices when the need for more open space arises years later. If you aren’t sure about the best way to mesh your current needs and future needs while designing the commercial office space, contact Headwaters Construction, Inc., and we shall put you in touch with the right team members to walk you through how this can be realized.

Design the Space for Density and Division

While designing the commercial office space with your future needs in mind, it is also helpful to choose a design that allows you to divide the existing offices easily so that they can accommodate more employees.

For example, when your workforce grows, you may need to assign one office to several people. This can be attained by adding more workstations or desks in the existing offices so that a team of people working on the same project can operate from the same office.

It is also wise to keep lighting, temperature, and other such things in mind as you design the commercial space so that the best possible work environment is created for employees. For example, adding skylights to the sections located far from windows will allow the offices to be evenly lit by natural light during the day. This will make the employees happier about the lighting situation.

How Can We Help?

We at Headwaters Construction, Inc. have extensive experience in handling all types of commercial construction or renovation projects. If you haven’t already, take a peek at our projects.  We have teams that can work with you to design or remodel your commercial offices. You and your employees deserve to have a workplace that facilitates productivity and employee satisfaction in a way that is achieved cost-effectively. Contact us today and learn how we can be of service!

How to Control Costs During Construction

how to control costs during construction - commercial construction company

how to control costs during construction - commercial construction companyConstruction project costs can quickly spiral out of control if deliberate measures aren’t set in place. At Headwaters Construction, Inc., we pride ourselves in being able to deliver, on a consistent basis, completed projects that are within budget regardless of the fluidity associated with commercial construction projects. Here are some of the concepts that guide and help us to control costs during construction.

Budget Forecasting

It can be daunting to forecast a construction budget correctly, but this activity is an important one if a commercial construction company is to remain profitable. A budget forecast not only controls the overall costs but also protects the profits of the tilt-up construction company.

At Headwaters Construction Inc., we are always very transparent with our clients.

Project Scope Definition

Another concept that has served us in good stead over the years is a retail renovation or commercial construction scope definition. We never get started on any project before we have clearly mapped out the specific deliverables agreed upon with the client.

That notwithstanding, we are cognizant of the fact that project scopes aren’t static, so we are always ready to adjust as and when the need arises during the execution of a given project. The cost implications of any scope changes are carefully weighed and integrated into the budget forecast, as well as all our other cost management mechanisms.

Being Specific

We have mastered the art of being specific in everything that we do, such as when talking to employees at a job site, when renting equipment, when assigning projects, and any other construction-related activity.

We are well aware that when we are specific, we go a long way in saving money and time because no one will second-guess what is expected or required. For example, when we need to rent a piece of equipment (a heavy-duty crane, for example) during a tilt-up construction project, we first forecast how much time will be required for that equipment to perform the needed work. Thereafter, we rent the equipment for that duration for which we need it and no more. In this way, we keep our costs minimal since no equipment that was rented will sit idle just because we paid for it, and it isn’t yet time to return it.

Forecasting Resource Usage

When you are specific about what needs to be done, you make it a little easier to forecast how you will be using the resources available to you during the commercial construction project.

Forecasting resource usage may not always be as accurate as we would like it to be, but the effort helps to keep a handle on various costs that can easily spiral out of hand.

Keeping Accurate Records

If it hasn’t been captured in writing, it doesn’t exist. At Headwaters Construction, we are sticklers for record-keeping and make sure that we are as accurate as possible when documenting everything connected to a commercial construction or renovation project.

We use project management software that takes charge of everything from equipment tracking, punch lists, pricing, and submittal tracking, and everything in-between. 

By keeping those five concepts in mind, we get off to a good start on every project that we undertake, and by putting those concepts into practice, we make it possible to keep project costs manageable from start to finish. If you are tired of commercial builders who can’t seem to keep costs in check, get in touch with Headwaters Construction, Inc. You will experience for yourself how high-quality commercial construction can be completed without overshooting the available budget.

How Project Managers Add Value

how project managers add value - commercial construction company

how project managers add value - commercial construction companyHow Project Managers Add Value to Commercial Construction

If you are planning a commercial construction or renovation project, you may be wondering what abilities to look for in the project manager you will be working with. Here are the key attributes and ways that we at Headwaters Construction Inc. have discovered that the best project managers add value to the projects they oversee.

Laser-Focus on Customer Needs

The ultimate test of any new commercial construction or renovation project is whether it meets the needs of the client. We have learned that the best project managers add value by finding out what a client actually needs as opposed to what they want. These project managers go to great lengths to know their client’s business. They also spend a lot of time talking to the client in order to grasp what they really need. When those needs are clear, the project manager or retail general contractor unwaveringly set out to deliver on them.

They Put Together a Great Team

A project is only as good as the team that has been assembled to execute it. The most successful project managers are well aware of this fact. They go to great lengths to assemble and nurture the best team. These project managers understand each team member’s motivators and strengths, and they coach them to achieve their full potential. Great project managers view themselves as facilitators or enablers, and they do what they can to eliminate obstacles standing in the way of their teams.

They Delegate

The best project managers don’t attempt to micromanage or do everything on their own. Instead, they start off with the best team and trust that team to deliver their best in their different specialties. The project manager, therefore, frees themselves to attend to big-picture aspects while also overseeing the project team. In this way, everything works seamlessly to deliver great outcomes, at a great price, and within the projected timelines.

Questioning the Status Quo

No great project manager is content to do things in the same old way that things have always been done. Their desire to deliver added value to clients constantly drives them to challenge their teams to find new ways to get around project challenges. For example, during a tilt-up construction project, the project manager can push the team to deliver unparalleled energy efficiency that is far beyond what other similar projects have delivered to their clients. By constantly pushing the envelope, great project managers are constantly adding value to every project that they oversee.

They Have an Eye on the Big Picture

Here is where the best project managers stand head and shoulders above all others. Great project managers aren’t simply satisfied with meeting the budgetary, time, and utility aspects of the project. They go farther by making sure that the project will offer value to clients in the immediate and long-term sustainable. The project manager makes it a point to deliver a project that meets the strategic objectives of the client, and they do this consistently. At Headwaters Construction Inc., we are focused on just that because we know that the capital outlay required to pull off a retail renovation or a new tilt-up construction project can only be justified by delivering a project that will be relevant now and in the future for the client.

They Manage Risks, Problems and Scope Changes

Risks, problems, and scope changes can bring a project to a standstill if the project manager isn’t equipped to manage these situations proactively. The best project managers anticipate risks and prepare their teams to mitigate those risks. They also monitor issues that arise and marshal the team to deal with them effectively. Successful project managers also interrogate all scope changes and find the best way to implement those changes, so that project budgets, timelines, and quality aren’t affected adversely.

They Deliver What They Promise

The acid test for any project manager is whether they actually make good on their promises. Credibility is important because a lot is at stake for all project stakeholders. This is especially true for the client and the suppliers or contractors who work with the project manager. It is, therefore, important for the project manager to be reputable and credible. At times, this calls for turning away some projects or assignments if the project manager isn’t sure that they can deliver what is required. At Headwaters Construction Inc., we have set our focus on commercial construction and renovation work. So, we firmly but politely turn down any residential project sent our way. By doing this, we have excelled at delivering excellent service to our commercial clients.

If you are looking for a commercial construction or renovation project manager/contractor, look no farther than Headwaters Construction Inc. Our long list of satisfied clients in Washington State, California, and Oregon is a testament to our commitment to delivering the utmost value on every project that we undertake. So, give us a call today!

Planning a Retail Renovation Budget

planning retail renovation budget - headwaters construction

planning retail renovation budget - headwaters constructionRetail renovation is an important activity for anyone running a retail store. Renovations allow you to fix, replace, or simply improve the face of your retail store. This makes it easy for your customers to relate to your store and enjoy the shopping experience. 

While renovations are an important part of your business cycle, they require money. As a store owner, it is important to have the right budget before embarking on any renovations. This prevents you from getting stuck in the middle and having an unfinished store. 

Here are some of the things you need to know when planning your retail renovation budget. 

Design 

Design, or more specifically redesigning your store, can cost you anything from a few thousand dollars to a whole lot more. The more extensive the redesigning process, the more money you are likely to spend. 

Additionally, if you plan on hiring a designer, make sure to set aside at least 20% of your entire budget as their fee. You can choose to perform slight design changes such as changing fixtures and repositioning certain items around your store to save on costs.

Flooring and Ceiling  

Flooring and Ceiling are likely to be your landlord’s responsibility. Your lease should have detailed information on who is responsible for flooring and ceilings between you and your landlord. 

However, if you are planning to add any cosmetics on the floors to match the mood of your store, you will incur costs. 

Plumbing 

This mostly pertains to the bathroom. 

Does your store have a bathroom? 

If no, does it require one? 

If yes, do you need to change the position of the bathroom? 

You are likely to spend less money if you have a bathroom and do not need to move it. In this case, a fresh coat of paint will do. If you need to add a bathroom or move it to a better position perhaps for the benefit of you and your customers, then you will incur greater costs. 

Set aside some money to hire different professionals such as a structural engineer and plumber to make sure that your bathroom is made or moved the way you want. You can also employ the services of a commercial renovator to handle everything for you. 

Electrical 

This is yet another avenue where your expenditure depends on your preferences. If your retail renovation involves altering the lighting structure and making additions for more intricate lighting to fit the mood of your store, then prepare to spend more money. 

You can cut costs by using existing wiring and fixtures. However, this might not work in all instances as some stores need specific lighting. Finally, take into account any power load increase that will happen after the renovation. This is likely to be caused by the addition of more equipment using more power in your store. 

Millwork

This entails any woodwork such as doors, flooring, wall paneling, crown molding, etc. The material, quantity, and space required for your millwork will determine how much money you spend on your renovations. The more intricate and detailed the designs, the more time and money you are likely to spend on renovations. 

Now that you know what you need when planning a retail renovation budget, you can take the next step. Retail renovation is a great step towards making your store look better. Make sure to involve a general contractor or commercial construction company like Headwaters Construction Inc. for professional services.

How Drones Are Improving the Construction Industry

how drones are improving the construction industry - headwaters construction

how drones are improving the construction industry - headwaters constructionDrones have been an important addition to technology for decades. Up until 2006, drones were only used for military purposes. However, 2006 saw the first commercial drone license issued. Since then, people have been using drones in a wide range of areas to provide real-time data. 

Commercial construction companies have taken up drones and are increasingly using them to carry out different functions. These special drones are equipped with special cameras and software to help them collect the kind of data that helps them make better decisions regarding construction. Construction companies use drones to work faster and produce better results. 

Here are some of the ways in which drones are improving the construction industry. 

Aerial Data Collection

This is the most important reason why drones are important in the construction industry. Drones provide a bird’s eye view to different terrains. They provide more accurate data and in a shorter period of time. Using drones equipped with the right software allows construction companies to make more accurate calculations for the area, volume, and distance during different stages of construction. Many companies use drones for their tilt-up construction projects.

Drones Improve Communication and Management

Commercial builders are better able to communicate and manage workers through drone technology. These drones are equipped with cameras that provide real-time video feedback for communication and surveillance purposes. This has helped increase efficiency at the job site by a considerable margin. Drones also make it easier to manage different construction sites at the same time. 

Drones Help Improve Security 

Today, drones are revolutionizing how commercial construction companies are dealing with incidences such as theft and vandalism. Drones used for security purposes are able to perform actions that ground-mounted cameras are not able to, such as tracking moving subjects using laser technology and covering areas that are out of reach. They are easy to maneuver and more flexible. 

Efficient Transportation 

It is now easier to transport time-sensitive materials from one point to another using drones. Many commercial construction companies enjoy this perk. Since drones do not have to deal with regular traffic or adhere to traffic rules, they can easily be used to transport material using half the time and resources. 

Marketing and Promotion

Drones have improved how construction companies market and promote their work. It is now possible to film aerial shots of different areas during various stages of development, create and develop 3D renderings, videos, and pictures to provide multiple angles for better visualization. 

This has allowed contractors to help clients see the viability of different projects. Drones are also helping contractors show job progress to clients.

Safety and Insurance

One of the reasons why commercial construction requires high safety standards is for insurance purposes. With the rising cost of insurance for such projects, drones are making it easier to inspect safety procedures in job sites. It is also possible to determine the quality of work and avert accidents in a timely fashion. 

Drones are revolutionizing the commercial construction industry. For more information, advice on how to make your construction stand out, contact Headwaters Construction Inc. and enjoy our professional service.