What is the Pre-Construction Phase?

What is the Pre-Construction Phase?

What is the Pre-Construction Phase?Most individuals are less familiar with the pre-construction phase of a building project than with the construction management process itself. If you’ve ever wondered, “What is the pre-construction phase?” you’re not alone!

Understanding the Pre-Construction Phase

Our Sacramento commercial builders explain that the pre-construction phase of a construction project includes all operations that take place prior to the start of construction. First, a strategic plan must be developed. As follows, a budget and timeframe must be agreed upon. Additionally, the project design is begun and finalized and permitting is obtained. Lastly, the labor and resources must be procured.

What Happens During the Pre-Building Phase?

Importantly, the pre-construction phase refers to a sequence of tasks and events that occur or must occur prior to the start of construction. Although these stages are not commonly considered to be part of a building project, they are in fact essential components. The pre-construction phase is typically part of all modern construction projects.

Our Sacramento construction company shares the different stages of pre-construction below.

Find a Project Manager

A construction project typically begins when a project owner has an idea for a project. Then, they begin working with a project manager. The project management team will spend time during the initial introduction determining whether a possible project is viable and feasible. If the Sacramento commercial construction project manager thinks that the project is feasible, the work can begin.

Make a Strategic Plan

Once a project manager and owner have decided to collaborate on a project, the project management team will prepare a strategic development plan for the project. Our commercial contractors explain that this will include the project’s budget as well as an estimated completion date. While this information is vital, the project’s strategic plan will also act as a guide for other construction team members throughout the project’s duration. In many ways, the strategic plan created at the start of a project acts as a continuous reference point for each member of the team to turn to if necessary.

Design

First, putting your concept down on paper is a major step. This works to make a dream project a reality. Your team will need to enlist the help of additional stakeholders. These will comprise a design team, which will typically consist of one or more architects, as well as an engineering team.

Entitlements and Permits

Once a design has been sketched up, it is usually time to start looking into permits. In some circumstances, obtaining permits and entitlements might take place concurrently with the design process. The project manager is usually in charge of guiding the project through the permitting procedure. Obtaining the appropriate permits for any size project may be a tedious affair. Multiple authorities will most likely be in charge of issuing permissions, which may or may not have overlapping areas of competence. As a result, a frequently perplexing mix of municipal, state, and federal regulations must be managed.

Choosing a Sacramento General Contractor

A general contractor will need to be brought on board the project during the pre-construction phase. General contractors are in charge of overseeing the physical construction process. This involves using their own labor as well as procuring the services of any subcontractors needed to complete the construction.

Procurement

Procurement is one of the final jobs that must be accomplished during the pre-construction phase. This is the time-consuming process of acquiring, assembling, and staging all materials needed to finish a project. The procurement step must be treated with caution to ensure that all necessary items are ordered and staged properly to best ease the construction timeline and process.

Ready to get started with your Commercial Construction Project? Contact Headwaters Construction Inc. today. Follow us on Facebook as well to learn more about our projects.

Commercial Construction Timeline

Commercial Construction Timeline

Commercial Construction Timeline

Commercial Construction TimelineAt Headwaters Construction, we are passionate about commercial new construction, shopping center renovation, and tilt-up construction. Our commercial builders are focused on delivering outstanding quality, communication, and service. As follows, we are proud to help individuals plan their commercial construction projects. Today on the blog, our tilt-up construction workers share typical commercial construction timelines.

Pre Construction & Planning

First, our team will collaborate with you to do a deep dive into your proposal.  Then, we will assist you in developing cost estimates. This is where we will evaluate design and value options. Next, our team will work on navigating permitting, zoning, and other issues. Importantly, pre-construction is high-priority because it helps team members to make educated decisions while avoiding surprises.

For fast and reliable cost estimates on a variety of project types, we are constantly updating and compiling real-time cost data. Additionally, our extensive network of subcontractors and trade partners assists us in identifying trends and staying current with market developments around the world.

Coordinating & Scheduling

At Headwaters Construction Inc., we have the skills and expertise to get the job done properly. Our professional scheduling and logistical preparation are unrivaled. All of our projects begin on paper, and we monitor progress on a regular basis to ensure that we meet key deadlines.

Additionally, we’ll work with our Sacramento general contractor team to define the logistical requirements for the construction process, such as delivery areas, barricade placement (if necessary), and operating hours. As follows, small details are all taken into consideration to ensure that your project stays on track.

Headwater’s field staff is equipped with GPS-enabled devices, enabling us to monitor and deliver resources on demand. The coordination of trades is an essential part of any project’s construction process. This is particularly when it comes to the mechanical and electrical trades.  Thus, our management team has a comprehensive understanding of every aspect of the commercial construction process. They use this expertise to ensure the communication and execution on your job site run smoothly.

Safety Management

Headwaters Construction Inc. is adamant in ensuring a well-organized and healthy working atmosphere. Importantly, safety is the most valued thing to many Sacramento companies. At Gilmore Heating, Air and Plumbing, Sacramento HVAC company, safety are at the heart of everything they do. Owner Darrin Gilmore explains that safety is personal, and we couldn’t agree more. Here at Headwaters, we understand that construction activities are invariably noisy and dusty. As follows, we will work to ensure that all construction activities are thoroughly vetted and understood by all parties involved ahead of time.

Commissioning & Close Out

Next, the commissioning and closeout of the project are some of the most crucial stages of the construction process. Then, our professional crews will not only ensure that the planning is meticulously carried out, but they will also ensure a smooth close and return to business as usual once the construction is completed.

Your Sacramento Commercial Construction Project

In conclusion, Headwaters Construction is ready to assist you with your commercial project. Importantly, when you choose Headwaters, you will have dedicated support from the beginning. As follows, we will work to keep your project on track and within budget. Thus, our site managers are completely focused on your needs. Additionally, we can keep your objectives on track without being distracted. Contact Headwaters today or keep up with us on social media.

 

Commercial Construction Roofing Options

Commercial Construction Roofing Options

Four Styles of Roofing Systems

Commercial Construction Roofing OptionsBuilding owners now have more options than ever before when choosing a roof. However, with so many commercial construction roofing options available, there are tons of factors to consider.

At Headwaters Construction Inc., our commercial builders know one or two things about commercial roofing. We’re here to let you know what particular roofing materials are best for your project. Learn more about some different forms of commercial roofing materials below:

1. Single-Ply Membranes

PVC

PVC roofing is well known for its toughness. Thus, it consists of two layers of PVC material with a polyester reinforcement layer inserted in the center. The seams are heat welded, forming a permanent bond between each board, contributing to the strength and durability of this form of material.

This particular material is extremely resistant to environmental conditions. They react well to possible hazards such as standing water, plant growth, or dampness.

EPDM

EPDM stands for ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (you can see why it is abbreviated!) which is more generally known as rubber roofing.

This form of synthetic roofing material is also one of the most cost-effective roofing choices, if suitable for roofing design. (It is suitable for roofs with no slope or a very low slope.)

The downside of this style is its longevity. Temperatures can impact the adhesives used to connect the seams, whereas debris or major storms can puncture the material. Although damage is reasonably easy to restore, there may be no damage to the water resulting from tears, cracks, and holes.

TPO

TPO, or thermoplastic polyolefin, is similar to the EPDM roof in a variety of respects. Like the EPDM roof, ethylene-propylene rubber goes into TPO, but it is often mixed with polypropylene rubber to improve its longevity.

Usually, the product is mounted in a fully bonded or mechanically bonded system and, since the seams are heat-welded.  TPO is less vulnerable to leakage of the seam, which is a big advantage.

TPO reflects UV radiation and is a significant benefit for lowering utility costs in colder climates. It is the fastest-growing commercial roofing membrane on the market today and has increased its share of the commercial roofing market by 18% in just seven years.

The downside of the TPO? Some manufacturers make a better product than others (meaning that you can rely on the experience of your Sacramento general contractor to understand the quality (or lack) of each brand).

2. Metals

Metal is popular in low-profile roof designs. Additionally, the panels are clearly an excellent water barrier. Individual panels themselves can support a person’s weight and, when properly mounted, metal roofing systems can last 50+ years.

Metal roofing solutions will improve energy efficiency, lower maintenance costs, and are available in a variety of colors. In reality, some manufacturers are so confident in their product that they boast up to 90% savings in roof maintenance costs.

A sealant is used in overlapping joints to avoid water penetration, and neoprene washers are attached to the bolts that connect the panels to the rafts. Depending on the design of the roof, a number of looks are available, including standing seam, batten seam, tile, and curved options.

3. Asphalt

Composed of the same material used to make asphalt shingles, asphalt roofing is usually seen on low-slope roofs. This type of roofing system is also one of the most cost-effective and provides multi-layer security.

It may also be easier to find skilled commercial roofing contractors to install this specific material. This is because it is readily available and has been used for decades.

Downsides to asphalt roofing? Our friends at Tureks Plumbing, a bathroom remodeling company in Fox Valley, say that asphalt does not last as long as some of the other products in the industry. Furthermore, problems can occur with the seams, and asphalt is not energy efficient.

4. Bitumen

Modified bitumen is a perfect choice for your roofing because it is durable and contains a combination of asphalt, rubber-like material, and other compounds.

Although this kind of roofing material looks like asphalt, don’t let it fool you. It is much more resilient than asphalt, thanks to the rubber technology that gives elastic properties on both sides.

Some types of modified bitumen are completely torched to the fiber base while others use cold or hot mopping tar or asphalt adhesives. The surface may be smooth, mineral, or foil laminate and coated with a ceramic material to protect against sun damage.

Since TPO, PVC, and EPDM have become more common, contractors are now using less of this form of material, but bitumen could be a cheaper choice to consider compared to the available single-ply membranes.

Roofing Styles & Commercial Buildings

Now that you know what types of roofing system materials are out there, you should be more able to take the next step towards replacing them. Soon, you’ll be sure that you have the best roofing option for your budget and needs!

Interested in a commercial construction project or tilt-up construction? Contact our experienced Sacramento commercial builders today. We’d love to help you with your next project!

Phases of a Commercial Build-Out

Phases of a Commercial Build-Out

Understanding the Phases of a Commercial Build-Out

Phases of a Commercial Build-OutThere are many different phases of a commercial build-out. This entails a very long and detailed process, which can be frustrating with codes and regulations. Hiring a Sacramento commercial builder like Headwaters Construction Inc. to manage your project from the beginning to the end can help. This will help decrease your frustrations significantly. However, you must have some basic knowledge of each stage of the build-out. In turn, this will help decide who would be the contractor for the position. 

Knowing what each stage entails makes it easier for you to learn whether a contractor is up to the task. Additionally, it may keep you from incurring unexpected costs or delays. 

The following are the commercial build-out phases.

Design Stage

This is the stage where blueprints are designed. Structural engineers and architects are usually the ones who sign off on commercial building plans. Hiring the right Sacramento general contractor allows them to work directly with the engineer to accurately develop and implement the design.

When approaching the design reading stage, it is helpful to have commercial construction companies on hand. They will ensure that the end product built is the vision that the design carried in the long run. 

The main purpose of the design stage is to make sure that the building will be ideal for its intended use. Keeping the design of a commercial build-out functional is a good idea. You can then explore and incorporate various energy-saving elements and methods. This will be beneficial in the long run.  

Plan Approval Stage

Now that you’re done with the designs, we now venture into the plan approval stage. Here, your plans are checked against zoning restrictions and building codes to ensure that they are compliant. Your commercial builder should be capable of handling this with ease. To avoid non-compliance, have your contractor guide you from the beginning of the design process. Hiring an expert Sacramento tilt-up contractor ensures that your plans have covered the basic rules and guidelines.

Our friends over at Turek’s Plumbing, Appleton Kitchen remodel company, provided us with some great advice. Since they are in Wisconsin, they have different codes for the harsh winter. They advise that if you live in an area with additional codes for weather permits, such as Florida, you will need to ensure that your plans take that into account because of hurricane season.

Additionally, your building plans will need to be approved with sewer lines. The plans have to not only suit your needs but those of the location as well. This is why hiring an experienced general contractor in Sacramento from the get-go is important as they will advise you on all of these regulations. 

Work and Special Permits

Ensure that the commercial construction company you hired has craftsmen who are certified. In addition to this, your contractor should also know what permits apply to your commercial building project. Having your general contractor dealing with permits is both an energy and a time saver. This is because some additions to your project design may require special permits.  Your contractor is in charge of the permits, also makes them responsible for all questions raised.

Materials Needed

The matter concerning materials boils down to the trust relationship you have with your general contractor Sacramento. This is unless you are very knowledgeable on all things construction materials. While the temptation to use cost-effective materials may beckon you, you must explore all the risks involved before making your decision. Having your contractor advise you on whether this may be a good idea is highly recommended. Ensure that the grade of materials to be used is of good quality. 

Additionally, your material choice may be dependent on the environment or its intended function. Some materials may also be regulated in some cases due to the weather.

Beginning Construction

There are several stages involved in the construction phase. The construction is carried out in these stages:

  1. Laying the foundation
  2. Mechanical installations
  3. Installing roofing 
  4. Finishes

It should be noted that before construction can move to the next phase, a municipal authority official needs to assess the stage and give the go-ahead for the project to continue. Headwaters Construction Inc. cautions that this is the phase that experiences the most delays. As follows, even if the paperwork is in order and all, there may be a delay. A lot usually happens in this phase, so you should accept from the beginning that things may not go according to your timeline. 

However, your ground-up construction contractor should keep watch for any delays that may occur in the future and find ways to prevent them from happening so that the project can meet its deadline. 

Managing the Building Process

The last stage in this phase is managing the building process. Here, your contractor should also supervise any sub-contractors that may be on-site and relay information on the project’s progress at every stage.  

With the right set of professionals and an expert contractor from a reputable commercial construction company, any project, no matter the size, will run smoothly without any hitches. Headwaters Construction Inc. is just the commercial builder for you if you want a hassle-free project. Contact Headwaters Building today and let us discuss how we can bring your dream to reality.

Sacramento Contractor’s Bid

Sacramento Contractor's Bid

What to Look for in a Contractor’s Bid 

Sacramento Contractor's BidAre you looking for a contractor to bring your construction idea to life? Today, our commercial contractors share what to look for in a Sacramento contractor’s bid. 

If you have a commercial construction project in mind, finding the best contractor is an important part of the process. As the owner of the building, you might not have the time or opportunity to meet all your potential commercial contractors. Therefore, you will have to evaluate their potential by checking their bids. Because of this, the construction processes must be usually expensive. 

Contractor bids are a way of commercial construction companies and contractors positioning themselves as the best option for your project. Consequently, you are likely to receive several bids from potential contractors. How can you decide on who to hire for your construction by just looking at the bids? 

Below are some of the things you should look for in your Sacramento commercial contractor.

Outlined Costs for Commercial Construction Projects

Money is an important issue in the construction business. Therefore, it is important to properly scrutinize every cost outlined by your commercial contractor. That is to say that expenses should be itemized to give you a better insight into the projected costs. 

It helps to break the bid into different sections. For example, if your project involved renovations, check the costs associated with the demolition, installations, and materials for the project. Most importantly, you should expect fixed costs for sections like materials. 

Material Breakdown

Every construction project will require a wide range of materials. Firstly, your contractor should break down every material cost and quantity needed for a successful job. For example, your contractor should list down the amount of paint in gallons they expect to use throughout the project if there is painting involved. These numbers make it easy for planning.

Inclusions and Exclusions 

Everyone has a part to play in the construction process, including you. Inclusions are what your contractor will handle and charge throughout the process. To follow, exclusions are what you are expected to handle. Should your contractor handle them, you will have to pay more. Your contractor should outline what they are offering to handle and what is considered your responsibility. 

Subcontractors 

Is your commercial builder going to bring in a subcontractor onsite? Moreover, it is normal for most contractors to hire subcontractors. In some instances, local regulations require the use of subcontractors. 

These are expected to handle specific parts of the project. For example, a subcontractor, like McQuillan Bros, St. Paul HVAC Contractors, may be called in to handle your HVAC or wiring systems.

Your bid should clearly outline whether or not your contractor is going to hire subcontractors and what exactly they will be handling throughout the project. 

Permitting Fees

Permits are an important part of any construction project. As a result, it does not matter whether you are building from the ground up or doing basic renovations. Likewise, you need different permits for different projects from relevant authorities. 

Usually, you will not see these permits on the bid, though they do need to be handled. Alternatively, you could ask your contractor to handle it for you. Remember, some of these fees come with additional fees, and therefore, this amount should then be included in the bid. 

Find the Best Sacramento Contractor 

In conclusion, there is a lot you can accomplish by just having the right commercial contractors in Sacramento. At Headwaters Inc., we believe in helping owners realize their dream projects through highly professional commercial construction services. Contact Headwaters Inc. today and enjoy the best in quality, communication, and service. 

 

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.

Benefits of Insulated Metal Panels for Your Business

benefits of insulated metal panels - Headwaters Construction Inc

benefits of insulated metal panelsInsulated Metal Panels are one of the most preferred construction materials by many commercial builders. They are liked for their insulation properties as well as their ability to meet any aesthetic plan or requirement. These external walls and roofs are made of two metal skins and an insulating foam core in between the skins. They are most popular with government buildings, financial institutions such as banks, recreational facilities, and manufacturing plants. 

What is it about insulated metal panes that make them so valuable to commercial builders? Below are the benefits of using insulated metal panels. 

Easy to Install

A typical concrete wall will require time and, in some cases, a number of professionals to produce the final product. The surface of the insulated metal panel can act as the finished surface. The wall itself provides everything you might need in terms of thermal, vapor, and air insulation. It is possible to carry out a one-step installation, which reduces the time required for construction by up to 50%. The fact that they can stand most weather conditions and for long, eliminates the need for additional products and reinforcement. 

Design Flexibility

Insulated metal panels come in different shapes, sizes, and forms. You can get flat or corrugated surfaces depending on what you need. You will not need to employ many structural support measures since the panels are strong. Contractors have the option of picking different profiles based on colors, finishes, and accessories, depending on whether you are looking for horizontal or vertical designs. Additionally, incorporating doors and windows will not affect the integrity and design of the panels.  

Cost-Effective

The fact that you will not require multiple vendors or products for a finished product means less cost of construction. Another cost-saving benefit that comes with insulated metal panels is their energy efficiency. They also require little to no repairs during their lifetime.

Energy Efficient

Your insulated metal panels will comfortably maintain the internal temperatures of any room. The panels are specifically designed with interlocking groove joints that have concealed fasteners to form an airtight seal. This way, the weather conditions on the outside do not interfere with the set conditions inside. By maintaining the climatic conditions inside the building, appliances such as HVAC systems will have an easier time setting the right atmosphere.  

Environmentally Friendly

The metal skins used in the construction of an IMP comes from recycled steel. Further, IMPs have R-values, which indicate the panel’s thermal resistance ability. R-values are based on the type of insulation, density, and thickness, among other factors. 

They contribute to the LEED credits and Net-Zero energy targets, which recognize buildings that operate with zero carbon emissions from energy consumption. 

Their resistance to termites and mold also means that you will not be using pesticides that could harm the environment. Finally, the insulated metal panel can always be insulated at the end of its use, thus guaranteeing no wastage or damage to the environment. 

Durability 

Insulated metal panels are resistant to fire, bugs, mildew, mold, bacterial growth, and rust. This allows them to last for years without withering. 

Insulated Metal Panels are no doubt great options for anyone providing construction services and are willing to create a strong, durable, and energy-efficient space. Their ease of construction allows construction builders to create modern and aesthetically pleasing buildings. At Headwaters Construction Inc., we guarantee you the best service when setting up any structure using the insulated metal panels. Contact Headwaters Construction today with your construction project for personalized and professional service. 

 

What Does a General Contractor Do?

Headwaters Construction Inc. - What does a general contractor do?

Headwaters Construction Inc. - What does a general contractor do?You may be considering hiring a general contractor if you are planning a major renovation of your home or commercial property. If you are in doubt regarding how to go about the process of selecting a general contractor, or you are even doubtful about the necessity of this professional, this article will help you get some answers to your questions.

Who Is a General Contractor?

A general contractor is a professional who takes full control of a construction project. A general contractor could be a company, such as Headwaters Construction Inc., or it can be an individual.

If your project is a major one and you are unable to take on some of the tasks, it may be worthwhile to hire a local contractor. Whether you hire a professional or a company, they will be responsible for hiring labor, ensuring that the necessary approved plans are in place, and every other aspect of the project is in order.

What Are the Roles of a General Contractor?

While the specific roles or tasks of a general contractor could vary from one project to another, Sacramento construction company experts reveal that those tasks normally include many of the following;

  • Procures all the materials that are required for the execution of the project.
  • Provides or hires all the labor required to complete the project.
  • Provides all the tools, vehicles, and equipment needed for the construction project.
  • Hires all the subcontractors that are deemed necessary for the work of the project.
  • Makes sure that all the work done is of the required quality and it is done within the timelines set for the project.
  • Monitors project cash flows, timelines, and payments.
  • Keeps all the records of the project.
  • Takes responsibility for ensuring that safety protocols and systems are upheld during the execution of the construction project.

How Does One Become a General Contractor?

There may be no specific education requirements that one must have to become a general contractor, but professionals at a leading Sacramento construction company explain that one needs to have a combination of experience, training, and education for them to execute their duties competently.

Some jurisdiction has requirements that general contractors must meet to be licensed. For example, some states may require these professionals to pass a written exam before they are allowed to work as general contractors. It is therefore advisable for you to cross-check and find out whether your area has any formal requirements that general contractors must meet.

Can I Manage My Own Project?

You can act as a general contractor during the execution of your renovation or construction project. However, you must meet all the requirements expected for one to become a general contractor in your area.

Being a general contractor yourself will allow you to save some money on the project. To benefit, you’ll need to plan the project and hire subcontractors where necessary. Headwaters Construction Inc. suggests that you hire a professional to manage your project because it can save you from paying for your mistakes down the road.

What Are the Advantages of Hiring a General Contractor?

When you hire a general contractor, you don’t have to worry about anything since this professional will be in charge of every aspect of your construction or renovation project.

You also have the liberty to negotiate with the general contractor on the details of the project as well as the costs associated with the project.

Headwaters Construction Inc. experts also say that you are safer if you hire a general contractor because they are insured, licensed and has lots of experience. This works in your favor because you have some recourse if anything goes wrong. 

What Are the Cons of Working With a General Contractor?

One of the biggest drawbacks of working with a general contractor is that they could be expensive if your renovation or construction project is small.

The general contractor doesn’t have the expertise to execute all the aspects of the project, so this individual or company will end up hiring subcontractors, and you will foot the tab.

When you hire a general contractor, you have no say regarding the details of how the work is done if you provided specifications and handed over authority to the general contractor.

How Does a General Contractor Differ from a Subcontractor?

While you directly hire the general contractor, the subcontractor is hired by and reports directly to the general contractor. This means that you, the project owner, has no say regarding who is hired as a subcontractor.

Additionally, a subcontractor’s competence is in a narrow field, and this individual or company only execute that aspect of the work. For example, one subcontractor may be hired by a general contractor in Sacramento to do the plumbing while another subcontractor will come in to do all the electrical work on the project. The general contractor will oversee all these subcontractors.

However, since subcontractors are generally more affordable than general contractors, it is less costly for you to hire and work with them directly instead of going through a general contractor.

The options are for you to either hire a local contractor or opt for subcontractors to work directly under you during the execution of your construction or renovation project. Assess your needs and abilities and then make an appropriate decision regarding which of these professionals is most suitable for your needs.