A commercial construction project can be small-scale remodels or full-scale new constructions, but getting familiar with the process is important for anyone looking to freshen up their business or start from the ground up. An excellent commercial building contractor like Diamond Contractors can help guide you through the process of getting it done.
The stages of a commercial construction project can vary slightly from project to project, but the main process generally consists of the following:
- Development and planning
- Pre-design
- Design
- Pre-construction
- Construction
- Post-construction
Development and planning
One of the first steps for new construction is setting a budget and finding a location. Your budget set-up can depend heavily on your area since the cost per square foot of a new commercial building can rely on the size of the building and the area it will be in. For example, land in a city center is generally more expensive than in rural or suburban areas because of supply and demand, as a city has limited space and more competition. After you have looked through your financials and decided on how much money you want to spend on the primary land sale before any construction or renovations, you can begin to look at more specific locations.
It is important to consider various factors while picking where to start your new business. Although curb appeal can be fixed by a remodel, the accessibility of the location cannot be, and foot traffic plays a significant role in the success of some types of businesses. Similarly, the local infrastructure must be considered, as well as neighboring businesses. Some questions to consider are: Are the water and sewer lines ready for your business? Is the area certified for zoning? Zoning requirements can prevent certain types of construction or types of building, so it is important to ensure there are no moratorium clauses. All of this must be determined prior to begin construction.
Pre-design
The pre-design phase can be different if the construction is a new construction or a remodel, but the essential purpose of it is to establish the intentions or goals of a project. This goal depends on which of the various types of commercial construction the building will be, such as retail, office, or hospitality. Here, it is determined what the necessary materials and equipment for the structure will be as the project timeline is established. The basics of the building, if the project is new construction, are also outlined here- the size and number of rooms are determined, as well as any special requirements rooms with different purposes may require. A commercial building company like Diamond Contractors can help you plan new construction to ensure your building can withstand time while still paying attention to detail.
Design
Here, the plans from the pre-design become official blueprints, and various engineers must be consulted. They will help ensure the building’s structural integrity and code compliance. Mechanical, civil, structural, and electrical engineers may all play a role in developing a new building, as they each look at various systems that must be installed or changed during a remodel. Certain facilities will also require a special certification. For instance, buildings with three or more stories usually need a threshold inspector to perform a structural inspection during the construction phase but should be taken into account earlier.
Pre-construction
The pre-construction phase is fairly complicated in that it deals heavily with paperwork. In this phase, contractors must obtain the many permits necessary to begin construction, including building permits, bids from vendors, various types of insurance, and an entire construction team. Hiring a company that can help manage all these steps is vital, and Diamond Contractors can help make the process seamless.
Construction
The construction portion of the project is reasonably straightforward but involves several steps within it. To begin construction, the site must be prepared- vegetation must be removed, the site must be excavated, drainage and utilities must be implemented and checked over, and power, water, and sanitation must be arranged for. This is all part of the first step of the actual construction.
After the site is ready for building, the construction team will pour the foundation for a new build before building up a framing. After, roofing and siding will be installed, along with the HVAC system for the building. Then comes interior and exterior, with any final landscaping touches that might be necessary for the full presentation.
For a remodel, the construction process can vary depending on the systems that might be affected. Generally, remodels fall under two categories: open remodeling and closed remodeling. An open remodel project can be completed without ever closing the location, ensuring that offices, churches, universities, and retail stores can continue operating and serving the public during the renovations. A closed remodel has the location closing but is better and faster for a full-scale renovation.
Post-construction
The post-construction is when the final inspection process takes place. The last walk-through with the contractor will help ensure that the building is ready and entirely up to code. They will check the quality of the project and note any issues, including minor details. After corrections, a certificate of substantial completion will allow you to get an official building inspection.
A building official completes this inspection, which is essential in ensuring safety. The building official will visually inspect the major systems within the building and issue an occupancy certificate if approved.
A good commercial construction company can help guide you through this process, significantly lifting the workload off your shoulders. Diamond Contractors can help you break ground on your new project, delivering the high-quality experience we are known for.