Considering the millions of dollars and extensive planning that are invested in the construction of schools, recreation centers, city halls, and hotels, it is critical to avoid, or at least limit, mistakes. Mistakes are not only expensive to correct, but also affect the long-term use and value of such a prominent facility. This article discusses the common mistakes made in large construction projects and how to avoid them.
Contractor Comes in Late
Get the contractor involved early in the planning process. When the contractor is able to meet with the architects during the design phase, he can offer estimates for costs. This information is crucial before getting too far in the designing phase of an expensive, large construction project.
Vague Establishing of Goals
A committee of dedicated principals must delineate clarify a list of goals for the construction project. When the objectives are clear, it’s easier to made decisions throughout the process, based on what honors the goals and what does not.
Not Seeing The Future
Let’s consider a large construction project, such as a new gymnasium for a city or university. Prospects of having more seating for admission-paying patrons and state-of-the-art fitness facilities get the principals excited; however, too often, planners neglect to consider the likelihood of future expansion needs. The architects and drafters can design the facility to efficiently accommodate expansion for not only its current purposes, but also long-term, ancillary, related purposes. A basketball arena may evolve to include volleyball, indoor track, concerts, racquetball courts, and even swimming pools for both competitive swimming and family fun.
Perhaps a college will look ahead to a time when expansion of strength training facilities can be done, which would enhance recruiting of athletes and their development for sports that generate revenue for the school. Space and access for additional locker rooms and administrative offices can be “penciled in” for a future time.
Ignoring Ceiling Height Requirements
A common mistake made in designing a fitness facility is not following recommendations for ceiling height and structure. If sports are to be played, high ceilings are needed, and steel beams and cables which support the roof and also the suspension of sports equipment are invaluable.
Bargain Hunting
Buying cheaper equipment will likely cost more money and headache in the long-run. Equipment in the facility which gets a lot of use tends to wear out, so you have to figure the replacement costs and the loss of revenue caused when equipment is either faulty or missing for days or weeks. Buy quality, even when the initial cost is more.
Not Inspecting Shipments Carefully
Whatever the large construction project, make sure every shipment of materials received is inspected for accuracy of order and that all parts are in the boxes. When a shipment is not correct, call the vendor immediately to arrange for returning materials or getting another shipment which completes the order.
Order materials in advance. It’s frustrating to get to a point in the construction process, only to realize that something you need right now has not arrived because you were slow to order it. Delays cost everybody money.
Article By: Clear Content Marketing