Understanding Construction Project Timelines: What to Expect

READ MORE \| Safety Protocols: Protecting Workers on Construction Sites

When it comes to construction, time is of the essence. Employees need to go to work, drivers need the interstate, and you need to get paid. However, the construction planning process can look overwhelming, requiring tedious attention to detail. Creating a timeline for each phase of the project can help construction go smoothly and in a timely manner.

Project Scope

The project scope phase is where you’ll outline your plan. It should include things like project expectations, what role each person plays in the process, and bottom-line budgeting. Additionally, Summer Thompson from E&M Design Solutions writes that the project timeline may shift depending on the availability of certain resources. She invites us to consider the following questions in the regard:

• Time frame – when does the building process need to be completed?
• Crew – what workers will be completing the project, and do you have enough?
• Outside contractors – are electricians, plumbers, etc. available when you need them?
• Equipment & tools – is equipment readily available, are there long lead times, or will alternatives need to be brought in or rented?
• Building materials – can you obtain all the materials you need? Are there any lumber, piping, instruments, or part shortages?

Environmental and Regulatory Considerations

Another thing to consider during beginning phases is the environmental impact of the project on your local environment. It’s also important, although it may seem small, to consider the weather conditions for the time you plan to build.

Local regulations are another important detail to note before you begin your project. Understanding these rules and obtaining the proper permits are crucial to your build’s success. This phase may look different depending on where you live and the complexity of the project. Be sure to check your project’s municipality to see which surveys, regulations, and permits you’ll need to get started. Be sure to also check OSHA regulations before you begin construction.

Construction Process

The actual construction process should have five categories to consider:

1. Site preparation and foundation
2. Here, you’ll clear the site and lay the foundation. Your milestones can look like soil testing, excavation, and foundation.
3. Framing or pre-cast walls
4. Utilities and essentials
5. You’ll need:
6. Framing
7. Electrical
8. Plumbing
9. HVAC
10. Insulation
11. Masonry
12. Interior
13. Phase 1:
14. Drywall installation
15. Doors and windows
16. Phase 2:
17. Flooring
18. Carpentry
19. Painting
20. Tiling
21. Molding
22. Detailed trim
23. Fixtures
24. Phase 3:
25. Equipment install
26. Piping
27. Instrument install
28. Programming
29. Commissioning
30. Site acceptance test
31. Exterior
32. Pavement
33. Landscaping
34. Fencing
35. Exterior finishes
36. Exterior Lighting

Working with a Professional

Internal resources aren’t always available. Hiring a specialized professional to help with the timeline, project management, and execution of the build can make the whole ordeal go smoothly.

Visit our Contact page to start a conversation with a construction professional today.

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