Construction Processes for Building Construction: Start to Finish

Turning an idea into reality is a huge responsibility. The process to complete a construction project is complex and can be complicated at many stages. A construction project goes through many phases and sub phases. All of these phases require many things like a design, budget estimation, documentation, earthwork, etc. Let’s get to know about these phases and Construction Processes for Building Construction from start to finish.

What is Building Construction?

Building Construction is the process or activity at a construction site that works towards building a structure. A whole construction process takes a lot of time, years if it is a big project. The process may include many things like materials, machinery, etc. A large number of people are needed to complete a project. These people may include, contractor, site-supervisor, sub-contractors, vendors, laborer, etc. The main Construction Processes for Building Construction contains three phases: Pre-Construction, Construction, and Post-Construction.

Pre-Construction Phase

Before the actual construction starts, there is a pre-construction work that needs to be done. The client is supposed to work on the idea and design of the structure. The whole project plan is made before the construction starts. Potential risks are also considered before starting a project. There is a lot more included in a preconstruction process. Let’s get to know about that.

– Acquiring Land 

The most necessary and initial step of Construction Processes for Building Construction is acquiring land so that there is a location where the foundation is to be established. While acquiring a land many things should be considered like legal issues, strategic location, accessibility, etc.

– Initial Meeting

Initial meeting refers to the meetings when client and general contractors have to come together for several meetings to get an understanding about the needs of the client. Here, the goals and objectives of the project are discussed.

– Estimating and budgets

After the scope is decided, the budget is made. They estimate the quantities and cost of materials, labour, equipment, etc. In this step the whole financial planning and funding is discussed before the plan is executed. 

– Schedule

The time phase of the construction is necessary to discuss. While considering the weather and all the delays. Scheduling ensures the timings and time of deliverance, from starting to final touch.

Construction Phase

When the Preconstruction process is done, the plan needs to be executed which is where the building construction phase comes in. Let’s get to know about different steps during this phase:

– Site Preparation: Site preparation basically involves the process of preparing the ground where the building is to be built. This process involves activities like demolition, Waste Material Plan, getting approvals & permits, and soil stabilization. When all of this is done, the foundation of the building is made. Founding is made to support the entire structure. Before that some tests are run like site survey and soil tests. 

– Framing: Framing basically refers to structure that will hold or support the building. This activity will involve making the structure from steel and wood. This process will give the support to the walls, floors and roof on that structure. The framing provides the skeleton for the entire building.

– Masonry: Once the structure is formed, masonry is performed to make the framing stronger. It is one of the essential elements in the construction phase of Construction Processes for Building Construction. It involves using materials such as bricks, stones, concrete blocks, or other units. It provides strength and durability to the structure. It offers fire resistance and sustainability.

– Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Systems: When the structure’s framing and masonry is done, it is time to do plumbing, electrical and HVAC work. In this process, essential items are installed so that buildings can function properly. This includes plumbing for water and sewage, electrical wiring for lighting and power, and HVAC systems for heating and cooling. 

– Exterior and Interior Finishes: Once the above-mentioned process is done, it is time to give the building a better finish. This process includes giving the building windows, doors, and roofing. When it comes to interior processes like drywall, flooring, and painting begins. This helps make buildings come up to the expectations.

Post-Construction Phase

Post construction phase is the final process of the Construction Processes for Building Construction. This works as kind of an inspection before the building is handed over to the client.

– The Walk Through: Before handing over the building to the client, the building is inspected to make sure that there is full functionality of the building. This walk-through is done by the architect and once he has looked at the specifications and confirmed that the building is fully functional, the contractor can get approval from the local authorities. 

– Handover: Once the walk-through process is done, the building is handed over to the clients and the clients get a specific time to inspect the building himself or get a detailed briefing. Other than that, documents like blueprints or user manuals are handed to the owner so the maintenance can be done properly. 

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Conclusion

Construction Processes for Building Construction are very time consuming and detailed. It involves multiple phases. The three phases of it are- Pre-Construction Phase, Construction Phase, and Post Construction Phase. Each phase requires collaboration, careful planning, and coordination to ensure that the project is completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards.

Also Read: Types of Walls in Construction & List of Wall Material Suppliers

FAQs

1. What are the main phases of building construction?

Building construction consists of three main phases: Pre-Construction, Construction, and Post-Construction. Each phase plays a crucial role in ensuring the project’s successful completion.

2. How do external factors like weather impact construction?

Weather can cause delays in site preparation, foundation work, or other outdoor activities. Proper scheduling during the Pre-Construction Phase considers such risks.

3. What is included in the Post-Construction Phase?

The Post-Construction Phase involves final inspections, a walk-through to ensure functionality, and the official handover of the building to the client. It also includes providing necessary documentation for maintenance.

4. Why is land acquisition important in construction?

Land acquisition is the foundation of the project. It ensures a proper location for construction and involves checking legal aspects, strategic location, and accessibility to support the project’s success.

5. What happens during the Construction Phase?

The Construction Phase includes site preparation, foundation work, framing, masonry, and installing essential systems like plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. It concludes with exterior and interior finishes to make the building functional and visually appealing.