How Strip Malls Are Being Renovated

How Strip Malls are being renovated - Headwaters Construction Inc

How Strip Malls are being renovated - Headwaters Construction IncStrip malls are generally characterized by a collection of retail stores in a row. Shopping centers or shopping plazas, and strip malls have existed in America for decades. Thanks to an increase in commercial construction over the years and a growing population, there are more strips malls in the country than ever before. 

These strip malls brought some level of convenience to shoppers by bringing everything into one location. They have also increased accessibility to consumer products in residential areas.

Technology, however, has been causing a lot of problems for strip malls. By making it easier for you to buy anything you want on the internet and have it delivered to your home, it robs strip malls of the convenience they once provided. Additionally, it has also threatened to affect a significant portion of its traffic.  

Despite this, strip malls are not going down without a fight. They are reinventing themselves through commercial renovations that bring them back to their past glory. This allows them to keep their traffic. 

There are three types of strip malls. They include community centers, neighborhood centers, and strip centers. Each varies in size and the number of people they can serve a go. 

Here are several ways in which business owners are renovating strip malls to make them relevant to the modern shopper.  

Offering Mixed-used Spaces 

The modern strip mall is designed to allow as many people as possible in both size and diversity. You are now most likely to find gyms, spas, bowling alleys, office spaces, and residential spaces within the strip malls. Gilmore Heating and Air, an HVAC company that offers air conditioning repair in Sacramento, agrees that this increases traffic which, in turn, helps increase revenue. 

Integrating Public Transport 

Initially, strip malls were designed with parking lot spaces in the front. This is changing as commercial renovators are redesigning them and allowing space for public transport.

Modernizing the Retail Experience

One of the most important objectives of retail renovation is in creating a better experience for shoppers. It helps beat competition with online shopping avenues which offer better flexibility in terms of user experience.  This means increasing services that will enhance user experience and make them want to come back by offering in-demand services such as restaurants and organic groceries. 

Including Medical Facilities 

Strip malls are increasingly adding medical facilities in order to make healthcare more flexible to shoppers. Contractors are now creating medial facilities that go beyond the conventional healthcare system. This includes having specialized medical services such as dialysis clinics and pharmacies. 

Creating Entertainment Spaces

Modern technology has increased the number of entertainment channels for users. Not everyone has access to this technology. Also, some of these technologies require large spaces which make it impractical to have in individual homes. This has seen strip malls including entertainment centers such as virtual reality gaming facilities. Now, players can converge and enjoy gaming features such as multiple players, tournaments and so much more. 

Strip malls offer a convenience that is yet to be fully exploited by landlords and shoppers alike. It is likely that they will be around for a long time. However, to beat their competition, they need to stay relevant to the consumers. For information about our commercial construction services, contact Headwaters Construction Inc. or check out our projects to see our latest work.

Commercial Construction Project Folsom, CA

Scott's Seafood Foslom CA - Commercial construction project Folsom CA

Scott's Seafood Foslom CA - Commercial construction project Folsom CAIn a few weeks, the shell of the roundhouse in the Folsom Historic District will be completed. Scott’s Seafood and Williamette Wineworks will have their new home in Folsom! The new Scott’s Seafood building will be an exact replica of the roundhouse that stood on that land more than a century ago. We’re very honored to have played a part in the building of Scott’s Seafood. 

Our Headwaters team has worked round the clock with some fantastic craftsmen and other specialists to give this historic building rare features that make it truly authentic. There is no doubt that the new Scott’s Seafood in Folsom will be the hottest restaurant in the Folsom Historic District. In this article, we highlight some of those unique features. 

Real Brick

To keep the historic atmosphere, we needed to use real bricks that existed when the roundhouse first stood there. We wanted the exterior of the building to make a bold statement, and these bricks are a testament to that commitment.

The Custom Backside WindowsScott's Seafood Folsom CA - Headwaters Construction Inc

It was crucial for us to make the new Scott’s Seafood, an inviting restaurant. On the inside, there is a solid wall, but we decided to put three 6×8-foot windows on the outside of it. Sierra Pacific makes these windows.

These massive windows will have a photo-etched onto a sheet of glass that will have an LED light to illuminate the photo. Anyone walking by at night will, therefore, see Locomotive 3 inside the building (the etched photos depict a real locomotive and the people servicing it).

Picking the Paint Color 

The exterior paint color of the building was selected based on its historical significance to the time when the roundhouse was in use. This particular paint color is referred to as Carter Brother’s Tuscan Red. The color dates back to years prior to 1887 when it was used on more than 5,000 railroad cars around the west coast and South America.

Headwaters Construction Corp. is pleased to use this paint color that adds authenticity to the roundhouse alongside many other time-appropriate features.

Headwaters Construction - Scotts Seafood and Williamette WineworksThe Wooden Doors

How often do you come across a building with operable 12×17-foot wooden doors? This roundhouse has them, and for very good reason. At the time when the original roundhouse was built, these doors were a necessity because they used to be wide enough to allow a steam locomotive into the roundhouse.

Thanks to Cross Roads Lumber, this roundhouse will also have the same sized doors that are similar to what existed in the 19th century. The ones we are using are thick and made from reclaimed redwood to match the historic nature of the building.

Second Floor Windows

Another important architectural feature that we included was the clerestory windows. This feature was a norm back in the day when the roundhouse was in use. The importance of these windows was to flood the roundhouse with as much natural light as possible.

The windows weren’t easy to construct since they typically don’t have any right angles. However, our determination to bring each detail of the original roundhouse back to life ensured that we got the job done.

There are many more unique features that make this roundhouse a special gem in the Historic District of Folsom. Our Headwaters Construction Inc. team is proud to have played a part in bringing this piece of history back to life. The Williamette Wineworks will be up and running in just a few short months. The opening of Scott’s Sea Food is still being determined. At Headwaters Construction Inc., we are fully licensed as construction contractors in California, Oregon, and Washington. Get in touch today and let us talk about how to bring your commercial project dream to reality! Make sure to check out more of our projects!

Signs Your Property Needs a Commercial Remodel

Signs Your Property Needs A Commercial Remodel - Headwaters Construction Inc

Signs Your Property Needs A Commercial Remodel - Headwaters Construction IncIt can be difficult for many commercial building owners to know when those buildings are in need of a remodel. All buildings, including commercial buildings, need to be updated from time to time so that they remain relevant to their purpose as well as the times. Here are some signs that our team at Headwaters Construction Inc., have pointed out to inexperienced commercial building owners who would like to get the timing of commercial building remodels right.

Building Deterioration

If you observe that your commercial building is exhibiting one or more signs of deterioration, such as cracked walls, chipping paint and a leaking roof, now might be the time to contact Headwaters Construction Inc., a commercial renovation contractor in California, Oregon and Washington for a discussion of the scope of work for the needed remodel work. Otherwise, the longer you take to fix the property, the more extensive the deterioration will get, and you will spend more to fix the building.

An Outdated Appearance

Sometimes property owners will be in denial about the condition of their commercial building. If you realize that your commercial building looks outdated inside or out, you’ll want to hire an experienced commercial renovation contractor as soon as you can. A fresh look at your building will make the building more attractive to tenants. The best HVAC company in Sacramento, Gilmore Heating & Air, adds that if your commercial building is outdated, it’s likely that your plumbing and HVAC system is just as outdated. 

Space is Becoming Hard to Come By

If you notice that it is becoming harder to find space within the premises of your business, then it might be time to start your commercial renovation. Headwater Construction Inc. can add more space and improve the layout of the existing space so that you can get maximum value and efficiency from the current square footage.

The Décor is Out of Tune with Your Brand

Branding is one of the most effective ways to distinguish your company from all others. So, you may need to conduct a commercial remodel project if your building does not compliment your branding. For example, a modern and sophisticated company should have a modern and sophisticated building. Location and aesthetics can say a lot about your business to customers and potential tenants. 

Complaints Abound About the Building

In today’s world, it’s much easier for people to leave reviews on the Internet. As a business owner, you want everyone who walks through your door to have a good experience. If they don’t, it is likely for them to leave a negative review online. This could be detrimental to your business. So, don’t wait to start your commercial building remodel. If you’re looking for a commercial building company in Sacramento, contact Headwaters Construction Inc.

You’d Prefer to Schedule Meetings Elsewhere

Another subtle sign that your commercial building needs a remodel is if you find yourself scheduling meetings elsewhere rather than within your office. Whether this is due to the lack of space, privacy, or the condition of your building, you shouldn’t have to avoid your building. Regardless of the reason, Headwaters Construction Inc. can remodel your building and make it suitable for all your needs.

Does your commercial building or office need a new look? Headwaters Construction Inc., a commercial construction company, is happy to help. Our team has extensive experience in performing commercial building remodels throughout California, Oregon, and Washington. So, contact us today, and let’s discuss how we can make your property more inviting to tenants, employees, and customers.

Ways to Finance Commercial Construction Project 

Ways to Finance Commercial Construction Project - Headwaters Building

Ways to Finance Commercial Construction Project - Headwaters BuildingThe Mechanism Behind Construction Loans

Taking into consideration the strictness behind credit and income requirements, it becomes increasingly crucial to find a lender for your new build. 

In order to secure a construction loan, you may experience a more stringent policy in terms of credit scores and income guidelines, than you would for a home loan. So, it’s rather important to go through an evaluation as a borrower. 

Construction-To-Permanent Loans

Apart from other options, a construction-to-permanent loan suits the needs of many as in the case of solid construction deadlines it proves to be reliable and efficient. If you have a contractor who has a history of completing each task on time, taking upon the option of construction-to-permanent loans is preferred. The mechanism runs smoothly where the lender pays the builder once the work is completed. 

Finding Land to Build Your Commercial Building

If you plan on building a commercial building from the ground up, it’s best to find lots that are in established areas. In other situations, you may not have to start from scratch. Whether you’re looking to start a completely new commercial building or just need a retail renovation, keep in mind that location is everything.

Design-Build for New Construction

The decision made by you to hire an architect will largely depend on the area where you choose to materialize your commercial property. In commercial communities that are planned, there are contracts that are signed with a number of local builders. Hiring an architect, however, may be helpful if you have a large number of preferences and specifications. A completed drawing by your architect can help you achieve the permit to build as well. 

Is There a Need for Title Insurance for a New Construction?

In order to avoid disputes in terms of legal transfers, getting title insurance shall be your safest bet. If a purchase is made in a tract of land in a suburb that is developing, then the property is most likely to have been covered legally. To get more insight on whether or not you need title insurance, you may need a real estate attorney who can guide you along the way. 

Get a New Commerical Construction Inspection

After your commercial building has been built, it is still highly recommended to undergo the procedure of professional inspections. It’s always best to be safe than sorry. An inspection will ensure that the entire process goes smoother. 

In a nutshell, be sure to find an agent that keeps your financing in check, have your credit in order so you can successfully finance your construction venture. In order to avoid any delays, get documents and plans pre-approved as certain fines may increase your cost. Be sure to research skilled builders that will provide value. Financing your project can be a challenging process, but strategic planning and an organized outline can help you in the long run. At Headwaters Construction Inc.,  we understand that commercial construction is not an easy process. Don’t worry, our team is here to make the process go smoother. If you’re interested in our commercial construction services, contact our office today.

 

Why You Need a Project Manager for Your Construction Project

why you need a project manager for your construction project - head waters construction

why you need a project manager for your construction project - head waters constructionA construction project involves numerous tasks, including multiple stakeholders, and this reality creates the necessity for a project manager. Here are some of the key tasks that a project manager will perform at your construction site:

Planning

The project manager is the glue that holds the entire construction team together. This individual has to be a very good planner so that the work progresses seamlessly. Experts at Headwaters Construction Inc. point out that the key planning tasks that a project manager performs include:

  • Preparing the work that each team member will perform.
  • Estimating the cost of each aspect of the work to be done.
  • Developing a schedule and timelines for the different deliverables of the construction project.
  • Reviewing the project to ensure that everything was executed in accordance with the specifications provided.

Make Hiring Decisions and Supervise Workers

At the construction site, the project manager is the boss. According to an Oregon construction company, the task of hiring different people needed to construct the building falls on the project manager. Along with this, he or she will also fire those who fail to deliver as expected. This implies that the project manager is actively involved in supervising the site workers. Those who aren’t doing the work in an expected way are either reminded about what is expected or ultimately fired.

Keeping the Project on Schedule

The value of a great project manager is portrayed through timely, completed projects. Many times, a lot is riding on the project timelines. For example, you may have given notice that you are terminating your lease at the premises you have been renting. If the construction delays, your business will be left with no premises.

Equally damaging is the risk pointed out by a Sacramento construction company that project delays often inflate the cost of the construction work. This is because the prices of different materials may experience inflationary pressures. So, the longer the project takes, the higher the exposure to these price hikes. Therefore, a project manager is crucial in ensuring that everything is done on schedule to avoid all the problems that come with project delays.

Staying Within Budget

Your project manager will generate project estimates using various software tools and their own experience in this type of work. Once those cost estimates are approved, and you sign the project papers, it is the responsibility of the project manager to ensure that the project stays within the agreed budget.

The best project managers from Headwaters consulting and planning division can deliver cost savings by finding ways to spend less than what was budgeted without compromising quality. If unexpected problems occur, the project manager has to be creative and find ways to resolve those problems without increasing the cost of the project.

Keeping You Updated

Chances are you don’t have the time or the ability to keep an eye on every aspect of the construction project yourself. California construction company experts reveal that a project manager comes in handy because they will keep you informed about the way the project is progressing, the challenges encountered, and the plans made to address those challenges so that the project remains on course and within budget. You may receive daily or weekly reports from the project manager so that you remain informed about the project.

If you ever discover that a project manager is withholding information from you, especially about the problems being encountered in the project, you should fire that person immediately. 

Conflict Resolution

As already mentioned, a construction project has many stakeholders. This may include the project owner, the general contractor, the subcontractors, and other people involved with the project. Where there are many parties, conflicts are likely to arise.

A project manager from Headwaters Construction Inc., a general contracting construction company in Sacramento, will plan ahead and place safeguards to prevent sources of conflict at the site. If conflicts occur, the project manager should involve himself or herself to resolve the dispute as soon as it arises so that the project isn’t affected.

Drafting Contracts

A construction project is a complex undertaking that can quickly run into serious problems if proper documentation of what is expected of each party isn’t done. The project manager performs the task of drafting the different contracts required for the project to proceed. These include contracts with the client, all subcontractors, materials suppliers, and any other third-parties involved.

As mentioned earlier, the roles of a project manager will change depending on the specifics of the project. Therefore, the list above should not be regarded as exhaustive. However, it serves as a pointer to the importance of a project manager to the successful completion of the project. If you need help selecting the best project manager or you aren’t sure which company you should hire for your construction project, contact Headwaters Construction. We have a presence in California, Oregon, Washington, and other locations across the country. We will execute your project efficiently and cost-effectively.

Why Tilt-Up Is More Cost-Effective

why tilt-up construction is more cost effective - Head Waters Building

why tilt-up construction is more cost effective - Head Waters BuildingBenjamin Franklin is credited with saying that an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure. As you are considering which construction method to use for your project, you might want to reflect on what Benjamin Franklin said and then select tilt-up construction. Tilt-up is a more cost-effective alternative not just at the time of putting up the structure but also throughout its expected service life. Construction experts at Headwaters Construction Inc., a Sacramento construction company, explain that the construction cost of a building accounts for approximately 11 percent of the total cost of owning that building. Therefore, your planning should factor in the long-term costs as you select a building method. Here are some of the ways through which tilt-up delivers cost-effectiveness.

It Collapses Project Timelines

During a time when the cost of major construction materials like steel experience double-digit inflation, it can get very difficult to predict what project expenses will be several months down the road.

This is where tilt construction can help bring some sanity to the construction process. This method collapses the construction timeline and makes it possible for the project to be completed much faster than it would have been possible with the traditional construction methods used.

The California construction company explains that this time collapse is possible because the work of various skilled professionals can be done simultaneously. For example, the plumbing work can be done at the same time as the electrical work since the runs for these different building systems will have been created within the tilt-up walls. Consequently, the project could even be delivered ahead of schedule and this timely completion saves you from price increases that could arise from price fluctuations when a project drags on.

Tilt-Up Delivers Energy Savings

Arizona construction company experts also assert that tilt-up construction delivers energy savings throughout the service life of the building. This is because the concrete panels form a tight building envelop, which prevents the leakage of heat.

How is this tight envelop achieved? With conventional construction services, numerous layers of the exterior structure have to be tied together. These layers include a waterproofing membrane and the exterior cladding.

Tilt-up construction reduces the approximate five layers of exterior skin on your structure to just two (the tilt-up panels and the insulation layer), making it less likely that gaps will appear where these layers of the building’s skin meet. The tighter envelop reduces the energy needed within the building. Headwaters Construction Inc. executives point out that a 55,000 square-foot school built using tilt-up technology used 23 percent less electricity on a daily basis than a 49,000 square-foot school that was built using the traditional building method. Thermal imaging studies also confirmed the better performance of the tilt-up building in comparison to other building methods. Therefore, you can be assured that you will enjoy energy savings over the life of the tilt-up building when compared to a building without tilt-up technology.

You can check out our projects using tilt construction 

Reduced Lifecycle Maintenance Costs

Ask any Oregon construction company professional and they will tell you that unlike other construction materials, concrete becomes stronger the more it ages. This is another attribute that makes tilt-up more cost-effective in the long-term.

Headwaters Construction Inc. can give the concrete exterior surface of the tilt-up walls nearly maintenance-free finishes, like cast-in brick. These finishes are part of the concrete structure and will, therefore, become stronger as the building ages. In addition, the paint or other coatings used on tilt-up panels can be repaired easily or altered if you want to give the building a new look. These changes come at a minimal cost, unlike the costs that one would incur if the building had been constructed using a different method.

You can also remove windows or create others within the wall panels without creating an eyesore. This is because the sections where existing windows are removed can be closed up with concrete and painted to leave a uniform appearance with the rest of the wall. This isn’t easy to attain with other building methods and if it is attainted, there often remains a visible “patch.”

As you can see, the initial cost of constructing a building shouldn’t be the primary reason upon which you select the building method that will be used. Work with the experts at Headwaters Construction Inc. to assess different simulations of the lifetime cost of the building so that the final decision you make is the right one both in the moment and in the long-term.

You can check out our projects using tilt construction in Sacramento, CA.

How to Remodel a Commercial Building

how to remodel a commercial building

how to remodel a commercial buildingCommercial building renovations vary, depending on how big of renovation it is. You could have a minor interior redesign or a major exterior and interior redesign of the structure. In this article, we give you an idea of what a commercial building renovation project will look like. If you need a professional construction company, contact Headwaters Construction, Inc. today.

Business Renovation Needs and Logistics

The very first step in a commercial property renovation is noting why the renovation needs to happen in the first place. Are you wanting to modernize the space? Do you want to improve the functionality of the property? Would you like to increase energy efficiency? Usually, the building owner and sometimes the tenant is involved in this step of the renovation.

Before going onto the next step, you’ll need to look at the certificate occupancy, any property violations, zoning laws, and much more. It’s important to look into these because they can completely prohibit certain renovations, which can increase costs in the long run.

Find Contractors and Designers

Once you’ve completed your commercial property renovation wish-list, you’ll have a better idea of what needs to be done and who you’ll need to help you. You may need an electrician, an architect, and a contractor. Make sure you do your research and look for a trusted construction company. It’s important to find someone who is easy to work with, charges an average amount, and can get the job done in a timely manner. 

If you have multiple commercial property renovations going on at once, we suggest that you hire a general contractor or a project manager to oversee everything. Both a project manager or general contractor will make sure the projects are done right and on schedule. Realistically, project managers and general contractors save you money in the long run because they make sure your renovation runs smoothly. 

Make a Budget

Since it’s hard to have an exact estimate of your commercial renovation, it’ll be good to figure out your budget at this stage. You’ll have a general idea of what you want to spend at first, but once you’ve talked to the professionals, you’ll have a better understanding of how much everything you need will cost. It’s best to allow up to 30% for a contingency budget as well as what you were quoted for. This will allow you to have some wiggle room in case you need it.

Design Your Renovation

You’ll likely need an architect, interior designer or another design professional to figure out what you want your commercial renovation to look like when it’s done. We recommend involving a general contractor in the design process for professional input. If you hire a general contractor, they will give you more realistic and affordable input. It’s important to finalize your budget only after getting a final, official estimate from the contractor. During this time, it’s necessary to develop a realistic renovation schedule with the team. 

Obtain Your Permits

Before you start construction, you’ll need to obtain permits. If you have a contractor or architect, they will likely take care of the permits. Every city is different when it comes to permits. You’ll likely need them from the Department of Building Inspection, the Planning Department, or Development Services. There are many factors that that influence which type of permits you need for your renovation. If you’re not sure, contact Headwaters Construction, Inc. today.

Doing the Remodeling

Once you’ve taken care of planning the design, solidifying budget, and obtaining permits, you’re ready to start your commercial property renovation! In general, you won’t be too involved in this stage of the renovation project. 

Performing Necessary Inspections

As the owner of the property, you’ll want to check on the property as it’s being remodeled to make sure your expectations are being met. A government building inspector may also stop by during or after the construction process. Being up to code during construction is usually the responsibility of the contractor, but you will be held responsible if you are not up to code after the completion of the renovation. Once the renovations and inspections are completed, you’re welcome to start using the space! 

Headwaters Construction Inc.

At Headwaters Construction Inc., we value your time and money. If you want to start your commercial property renovation, we can help you. We offer a number of construction services in California, Oregon, and Arizona. Everything from construction consulting and building, to general contracting, retail renovation, and tilt-up construction. Additionally, we’ve been in the business for a long time. Our experience can attest to the quality of work we complete. Know that you can trust Headwaters Construction Inc., with any of your construction needs. Contact Headwaters today to see what we can do for you.