Metal building construction is a sustainable and durable type of construction, especially for commercial and industrial projects. Although they may seem basic from the outside, there is thorough planning that requires an understanding of timelines. Metal buildings are booming in Houston, offering durable and cost-effective solutions for everything from workshops to warehouses. But how long does it really take to get one up? Let’s break down the typical timeline and what factors to consider.
Standard Timeline Breakdown
There is a general timeline for metal building projects depending on the size of the building. Small buildings tend to be completed in 5-10 weeks, medium-sized buildings are completed in 10-16 weeks, and large buildings are done between 20-30 weeks. Let’s break down the different phases that go into the estimated timeline for these projects:
- Designing and Planning:
- The first part of this phase involves consultation to identify what your needs, budgets, and aesthetics are. You will typically collaborate with designers or engineers to create drawings and other specifications.
- Another aspect is getting the necessary permits approved for your project.
- Site Preparation and Foundation
- Preparing the acquired land includes clearing the land, grading to ensure the proper drainage, and potentially installing erosion control measures.
- Foundation work involves properly excavating and pouring concrete.
- Building Erection
- This phase is where you will see material delivery and assemble the different parts of the metal building.
- Interior Finishing
- Interior work encompasses insulation, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, interior walls, and finishes.
These phases all remain the same, no matter the size of the metal building. The only difference would be the time it takes to execute each phase.
Factors Affecting Timelines in Houston
It is not always smooth sailing with metal building construction. There are several factors that can hinder the completion timeline for your project.
- Weather Conditions
- Hurricanes and heavy rain
- Extreme heat and humidity
Permitting and regulations
- City-specific requirements
- Potential delay when getting approves
- Material availability
- Materials can either be delayed in delivery or be scarce altogether because there can be supply chain disruptions.
- Design complexity
- If the client wants unique features and elements in their metal building construction, then it could prolong some of the phases in their project.
Being aware of some of the factors that can affect the timeline of your project saves you the stress and prepares you for anything.
Tips for Staying on Schedule
Although we cannot control which outside factors affect the timeline of your metal building construction, there are still some tips that can help keep the project on time.
- Detailed planning and scope of work
- Working with your contractor to create a realistic and comprehensive schedule with deadlines and milestones helps with time expectations.
- Strong Communication and Collaboration
- Always be in contact with your contractor and any other parties that are involved to avoid confusion and misunderstandings.
- Be responsive to requests for information or decisions from your contractor.
- Secure permits and approvals early
- Regularly monitor progress
- When/if possible, visit the site regularly to monitor progress and help identify potential issues early.
- Be aware when tracking progress, especially if it is potentially going against schedule.
Implementing these tips in the process can help eliminate confusion, misunderstandings, delays, and more.
Working with Metal Building Construction Professionals
The process of a metal building construction project can be lengthy and tedious, but with a proactive outlook and method, it can be smooth. Contact our team of professional contractors to learn more!