How do I start a construction project?
If you are eyeing a construction project such as a driveway or an additional room in your house, then you must plan. Even if it is a small patio project, it can be stressful and time-consuming if don’t have a plan. A concrete contractor will tell you that the secret to a successful construction project is how well you planned it.
Here are five steps that can help you plan a successful construction project.
Have a Ready Design
Hiring a designer or an architect is an additional cost to your project, but it ensures you have a good deck that will fit in your backyard. It also ensures that your deck complements your house. You wouldn’t want to make your design and end up tearing it down once completed because it looks “off”. Much worse, you wouldn’t want to just go ahead and start construction work without a plan – that will surely waste your time and money.
What’s included in the design? It includes the layout, the size of the project, and how it will look once done.
Find Concrete Contractors
Once you have a design, you can now find a contractor. Based on your schema, you can get a better estimate of how much your project will cost. In finding a contractor, take your time. Ask around. Ask for recommendations. Interview potential concrete companies. Don’t rely on one option. Make a checklist and choose based on qualifications, license, and portfolio.
Set Your Budget
How much is your budget? Do you have a budget for miscellaneous expenses? What if there will be delays with materials, is it okay to extend the deadline? What if your chosen material is not available, can you switch to something more expensive without affecting your budget?
You must have a fixed budget and an emergency budget before starting your construction project. This way, possible delays won’t leave you hanging and won’t cause your project’s delay in completion as well.
Do Your Part
What is your part? Aside from finding the best concrete company to hire, you have to work on securing your project permits too. Depending on your state’s policy, you might need to secure more than one permit. Aside from building permits, some states that require environmental permits and so on. Permits are especially needed if there is digging that needs to be done.
Oh, you have to pay for permits too so include that in your budget.
You Can Now Start
Some homeowners leave everything to their concrete contractors once everything is set up. This is okay yet I prefer to be present whenever I have a construction project. One reason why I follow a plan is so I can set my schedule and be at the site during work hours. This way, I can monitor the progress of the project in real-time and be able to address issues that may potentially arise.
Takeaway
Starting a construction project correctly can be overwhelming and taxing, however, if you do everything right, you can expect a smoother construction project with no wasted time, money, and energy. Do you already have a project in mind? Why not try these steps today before you start your construction project!
