Efficiency is constantly preached in the world of construction and home renovation. However, it is easier said than done. Projects that run past completion date and over budget are an epidemic in the current landscape. From basic renovation projects such as a shiplap ceiling makeover to more elaborate additions of guest quarters, there are myriad challenges that threaten efficiency. To help get it right, keep reading as we break down 8 pro tips for streamlining work on your construction project.
Leverage Technology
Technology has revolutionized the world of construction. Not only is it helping create high-tech materials that facilitate the construction process, but it is giving homeowners and design professionals unprecedented renderings of structures in advance of construction. In addition to CAD models and 3D drawings, look into next-level AR and VR software that gives realistic simulations of all aspects of the building to reduce the risk of emergent threats and/or rework scenarios.
Make a Realistic Budget
Budget issues are one of the greatest challenges for modern construction projects. With rising material costs and acute labor shortages, it is harder and harder to keep the project from going over cost. In many cases, homes sit in a partially-finished state because funds have run out. Therefore, it is essential to be realistic when creating the budget. Plan for the overall amount and break each component down into minute detail. As a rule of thumb, it is a great idea to budget 20% more than what you expect the project to cost, just to be on the safe side and ensure that work is never interrupted.
Collect All Necessary Tools
Having the correct tools and machinery is paramount to doing the job right. It reduces the risk of injury and limits the likelihood of having to perform costly rework. In addition to hand and power tools, PPE is equally important. Hard hats, safety glasses, high-visibility clothing, steel-toed boots, and hearing protection are just a few of the many items to have readily available at the job site.
Understand Weather Patterns
Weather is one of the greatest threats to a construction project. Not only can it delay progress, but it can cause damage that requires rework. Understand the climate of the region so that you are working in the most opportune windows for project completion. In addition, take a close look at short-term forecasts. Ensure that there is adequate house wrap and material storage to keep all aspects of the project safe.
Choose Innovative Materials
Modern building materials can do wonders for facilitating the construction process. Roofing options alone are lightyears ahead of where they were at the turn of the century. Those homeowners wanting wood roofs often had to compare a wood shake roof vs shingles and determine which would be least likely to splinter during installation and which types of treatments were necessary to prevent moisture damage.
Homeowners wanting masonry roofs needed to make sure that the roofing substrate was robust enough to handle the additional weight and find a contractor with the tools and machinery necessary for these heavy roofing types. Modern composites solve all of these issues.
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They can be fabricated in a wide array of designs to closely mimic the appearance of natural wood or stone. However, they are as lightweight as basic asphalt shingles. Rated to last 50+ years with the proper care, they offer the utmost durability with the least possible hassle.
Have Alternate Accommodations
Most construction projects result in the temporary displacement of building inhabitants. Unfortunately, many people are not aware of this inconvenience until it is too late, causing them to scramble to figure something out at the last minute. Try to perform the project in waves so that part of the building is operational while other areas are still under construction. If this is not feasible, plan for alternate accommodations until it is safe to use the structure.
Plan for Waste Removal
Waste buildup at the job site poses myriad issues. Not only is it unsightly and inconvenient, but it creates multiple safety hazards. It can block work areas, introduce tripping threats, increase combustibility, and provide a haven for pests. Therefore, it is essential to have an adequate waste removal infrastructure in place.
Explore roll off dumpster sizes so that all trash can be efficiently stowed. Look into recycling and compost receptacles for mindful construction. Have contact information for a hydrovac service provider in the event of any wet spills or hazardous cleanup.
Establish Top-Notch Safety
Nothing will stall progress on a job site faster than an accident. As such, it is crucial to establish top-notch safety during the entire process. Make sure the entire site is well fenced to prevent unauthorized access. Look into temporary wall panels to define space and keep areas of the project separate. Ensure adequate lighting and ventilation, placing portable air scrubbers throughout the site to promote air quality. Clearly mark any materials or substances that may pose a fire or toxic threat.
Get Meticulous with the Details for a Seamless Renovation Project
From leveraging technology to establishing an infrastructure of safety, any of the tips listed above can help you streamline a construction project for the utmost efficiency. For more of the latest trends in home improvement, explore the resources at Structures Insider for the leading insights in the industry!
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