Does building a metal building interest you? If you are planning on starting a metal building project, we have provided some tips that can help you save time, money, and headaches.
The good news is that you are already on your way to eliminating many budget breaking problems associated with regular stick construction. The purchase of a metal building kit will set you up for success right from the start.
Because steel buildings are engineered by professional engineers, metal buildings are designed to provide strength and integrity while keeping the cost of materials at a minimum. In addition, each piece of a metal building kit is designed to perfectly assemble, which decreases labor hours and puts you that much closer to a finished project. The best part is that you don’t have to sift through racks and racks of crooked lumbar at Lowes or Home Depot.
When efficiency, longevity, and affordability are important, metal buildings kits are the way to go.
BE REALISTIC
The very first thing you should do is define a budget.
What you should not do is start out by asking how much a metal building kit will cost. The real question is how much are you prepared to spend on the entire project. After-all, the metal building kit is on 35-50% of the overall cost.
You have to budget for everything from the ground up. Some of the costs include:
These are just a few and may not include all costs to consider.
BE DETERMINED
The trick is to take it one step at a time. Expect delays and budget accordingly; however, stay focused. It will be completed before you know it.
BE THOROUGH
The best way to stay on budget is to stay on top of the details. It is highly recommended that you create a work base structure (WBS) and/or timeline. After-all, you are the project manager.
Certainly do not keep all of your details in your head. Write them down and plan them out. There are several free project management software programs available on the internet.
If you can’t seem to find a PM software of your liking, at minimum you should create a punch list. Keeping the punch list up to date will allow you to always know where the project is and what comes next. In addition, keep track of all problems and hiccups, and correct them as soon as possible.
BE FLEXIBLE
You may have the general picture of your final project in your head; however, if you discuss money saving options with your metal building supplier, you may be surprised on what can be done. Many times, a simple design change can save big bucks on the entire project.
Do you have building experience?
You can save quite a bit by erecting your own steel building kit.
BE ACCESSIBLE
Communication is essential to a successful build. You expect to always be able to contact your contractors; well the same is expected of you. Not being accessible can slow your project way down. Remember, you most likely are not the only project your contractors are constructing. They will leave if you are not able to answer a question or supply the specific details.
BE FOCUSED
Staying focus on your initial design is essential to staying on budget. Many times you may want to add an accessory or enhancement, just make sure to keep track of the cost offset. Ignored budgets can leave you in the poor house and easily 18-25% over budget.
Some budget smashers that often arise for new builders include:
Scope Creep: It is easy to start developing improvement ideas as you see you building being constructed; however, these can add up very quickly. This is why sticking to the plans is so important.
Change Orders: A very crucial mistake that is often made by beginners. Make sure, without a doubt in your mind that the building is exactly what you want before you order it from the manufacturer. Once it is released for production, it can become extremely pricey to make any changes.
Building Arrival: Once your building arrives, make sure to check through the item check list as well as through inspect each item. This is really your one chance to make sure nothing is damaged or missing before you begin construction.
Steel Erectors: Make sure to hire a reputable erector. There is not a certification that is mandatory for any crew to call themselves professional erectors.
Equipment: You may be able to save money is you rent the requires machinery to erect your building. This would include: Scissor lift and off-road forklift.
Safety: Make sure all contractors are wearing Osha approved safety equipment before you let them work on your property.
Security: Protect your job site from thieves and vandalism! It happens more than you think. Hiring a security service is recommended.
BE PATIENT
Expect delays!
As we all know, the weather is indeterminable, especially, 6-8 weeks away from the building delivery date.
Things happen with contractors as well. People get sick, family members pass away, and accidents happen. Be prepared to adapt to the situation and handle it professionally.
No matter how hard you try to stay on budget, situations occur that end up increasing the cost. It is wise to set a 10-15% margin for these unforeseen costs. CONCLUSION
With careful planning and attention to details, you can keep your steel building project on time and on budget. For Metal Buildings Houston, contact Questar Construction.