Month: August 2023

What Does a General Contractor Do?

Keith Laughlin Contractor Services , , , , , ,
General Contractor

General Contractors Oklahoma are responsible for managing all aspects of construction. They are the ones who turn the designs and renderings of architects, engineers, and interior designers into reality.General Contractor

They also have to make sure that everyone on the job site is properly oriented and safe. And, of course, a good GC has to be able to solve problems that arise.

Project management is a crucial part of the pre-construction process. The project manager oversees all vendor and step interactions from site selection to permitting while ensuring that your space is designed according to the scope of work provided in the bid documents.

Documenting the project’s needs, assessing regulatory and financial feasibility, and planning for procurement and execution of the work are the first steps in project management. This ongoing documentation function, while tedious at times, is necessary to avoid claims and meet periodic reporting requirements to the owner or lenders.

Once the construction phase begins, the project manager is responsible for managing the schedule and cost of the work by monitoring work progress and submitting bills based on contract terms. The project manager also manages the overall health of the project by addressing issues such as equipment failure, personnel shortages, weather events and quality control. In the case of EPC contracts, the project manager is often assigned the role of a risk manager to minimize their exposure to project risks. The project manager also assists the EPC contractor in meeting these needs by negotiating with the contract to establish procedures and controls regarding schedule updates, earned value, project costs, and tracking performance.

Contract Negotiation

General Contractors must be able to negotiate contracts for the work they perform. Most commercial construction projects are open to bids from multiple parties, and a general contractor has to know how to effectively negotiate these requests for proposals (RFPs). These RFPs ask for estimates for the cost of labor and materials needed to complete a project.

For the best outcome, a GC should always shop around to get the lowest estimate possible. This will help them save money and ensure they’re working with a fair price. It’s also important to note that the old adage “you get what you pay for” usually rings true. A cheap contract can end up costing a lot more in the long run, as numerous change orders may be required to make the job what it was originally intended to be.

Other elements of contract negotiation include a clear scope of work that outlines what will be performed, the cost for each task, and the quality requirements to be met. A clear definition of what’s included and excluded from the work is key to avoiding misunderstandings and disputes later on. Additionally, GCs must be aware of the various contract provisions that pose risks for them and work to minimize those risks. For instance, payment provisions such as pay if paid versus pay when paid often become contentious and must be negotiated.

Throughout the course of any construction project, there will likely be unforeseen issues that arise, like weather, supply delays, or subcontractors who fail to show up on time. A GC needs to be able to solve these problems quickly to keep the project on schedule. This includes being able to communicate well with the team and re-evaluating the project timeline if needed.

Finally, a good GC will have connections to subcontractors and vendors that can help them get high-quality materials and workers to the project. This is essential for a successful building project because it ensures that the job is completed in the most efficient manner possible and reduces the risk of costly mistakes. They can also use their connections to get discounts on material supplies that they’d otherwise be paying full price for.

Subcontractor Management

Subcontractors are tradespeople who perform specialized work on a larger construction project on behalf of the general contractor. General contractors work closely with subcontractors to ensure that the overall construction process is smooth and well-managed. Subcontractors can include plumbers, electricians, framers, roofers and carpenters.

Because subcontractors are not full-time employees of the general contracting company, they need to be carefully screened prior to hiring for any specific project. Oftentimes, the first step of this process is reviewing bids from qualified subcontractors to determine which ones have the right skill set and experience for a particular job. During this phase, it is also important for general contractors to assess whether or not the subcontractors have any previous legal compliance issues. This is because it is the responsibility of the general contractor to ensure that their workers are in compliance with the laws and regulations in force on construction sites, or face heavy penalties.

Once a subcontractor has been selected, they will then go through the process of negotiating a contract and hammering out the details of their specific work scope on the project. General contractors will also regularly monitor their work to make sure it is on schedule and that it meets quality standards. If necessary, they will also request — and follow up on — change orders from clients.

The key to subcontractor management is clear communication. General contractors need to be able to communicate clearly with subcontractors so that they have all the information they need to carry out their work safely, on time and to standard. This means that they must be able to share detailed plans and timelines with their subcontractors, as well as provide them with regular meetings where they can discuss any changes in requirements or specifications.

In addition, it is vital that general contractors use dedicated software to manage subcontractor schedules and assignments. This makes it easier for them to manage and track all the labor requirements of a project, including any overtime hours. It also helps to reduce manual work, such as double-entry of the same data, ensuring that all team members have access to the most up-to-date information at all times.

Safety

A construction job site is a dangerous place to be, and general contractors should prioritize the safety of their crews. From training workers to leveraging technology, there are many strategies that a contractor can employ to create an environment where adherence to safety rules is second nature.

One important way for a general contractor to ensure the safety of their crew is by establishing clear guidelines before the project begins. This is particularly important for large projects that may be crowded with employees, vendors, subcontractors and more. By setting these guidelines, it’s easier to enforce safety policies and ensure that all parties involved are aware of what they should be doing at all times.

It’s also essential that a contractor provides their crew with the proper tools and equipment to complete their work safely. This includes making sure that any personal protective equipment is properly fitted and in working order before assigning someone to a task. This includes ensuring that back braces are properly fitted and that eyewear, gloves, steel-toed boots and helmets are all in good condition. In addition, a general contractor should require that all workers wear the appropriate personal protective equipment when leaving for the day, and encourage them to check these items regularly.

Another crucial aspect of a general contractor’s safety strategy is to keep up with any new laws and regulations regarding the construction industry. By implementing a thorough training program and updating their safety procedures routinely, a contractor can help to ensure that they’re always on top of the latest safety requirements.

As a matter of public policy and federal law, the primary contractor is responsible for the environmental safety of all personnel on the construction project, regardless of the identity and status of the various and multiple employers. This responsibility cannot be contracted away, even by a contract between the GC and the subcontractors.

A general contractor should be a proactive leader when it comes to onsite safety. They should take a hands-on approach to the safety of all employees and visitors, and make sure that the site is free from any hazards. By following these tips, a general contractor can guarantee that their crews are safe while also remaining on schedule and reducing risk for the entire project.

Hardwood Floor Refinishing

Melissa Harwood Flooring, Uncategorized , , , ,
flooring

flooringRefinishing is the way to go if your hardwood floors have major scratches and gouges. This is a more involved process than resurfacing, which involves removing and replacing planks, grinding the floor to even it out, and re-staining the entire surface of your flooring. It is also possible to screen and recoat your hardwood floors, which skips the sanding step and only requires a new protective finish coat.

Hardwood Floor Refinishing Bergen County NJ is an excellent option to spruce up them. It can make a huge difference in the look of your home and add value to it. This process involves removing the old finish from the wood and then staining it again, creating a new color and look for your floors. It can also help remove stains that have developed over time. Having beautiful hardwood floors is something that every homeowner should strive for. However, stains are inevitable and often difficult to get rid of completely. Refinishing can eliminate most stains and leave your floors looking great again.

Before beginning the refinishing process, it’s important to prepare the room in which you will be working. This should include clearing the area of all furniture, walls hangings and window treatments. It’s also a good idea to clean the wood floor thoroughly before refinishing. This will ensure that there is no dust or dirt that can interfere with the final result. Vacuuming is a good place to start, and then you can use a microfiber cloth or tack towel to remove any remaining dust.

During the sanding process, it’s essential to follow proper safety protocol when using a drum sander. It’s recommended that you wear a mask and goggles to protect yourself from the fine dust particles. In addition, you should always vacuum the sanding dust as it accumulates to prevent it from becoming airborne.

The process of sanding usually takes several rounds, with each round using a finer level of sandpaper than the last. It can take at least four passes with a finer grit to fully refinish most older wood floors. It’s also important to note that sanding can damage the surface of your wood floors if it’s done improperly. Therefore, it’s crucial to hire a professional who has the equipment and experience to do the job correctly.

After sanding, it’s important to clean the wood floors again and wipe them down with a damp cloth or tack cloth to remove any dust left behind. Taking care to do this will ensure that there is no residue left on the surface of the hardwood, which could cause the final coat of stain or polyurethane to discolor.

Staining

A stain is the coloring agent that will give your hardwood floors the color you want them to have. Staining is not to be confused with finish, which is designed as a protective coating that adds no color to the wood. Staining is a much more complicated process that can be difficult to get right, especially in large areas with lots of color options.

When choosing a stain, it is important to test the product on an inconspicuous area of the floor before applying it. This will ensure that you like the color and that it will work with your home’s decor. A professional flooring expert can help you select the perfect stain for your floors and provide recommendations based on your specific wood type.

The first step in staining is to sand the existing surface of your hardwood floors. This can take between two and four days depending on the size of the room and condition of the floors. Once the sanding is complete, it’s time to stain your new hardwood floors.

Before staining, your floors should be clean and free of dust. It is also recommended to cover your furniture with a tarp, or move it out of the room to protect it from accidental spills and smudges. Ideally, you should allow the room to air out completely before moving back in and refinishing your floors.

Once the stain is dry, a protective finish can be applied. This can be varnish, polyurethane or another protective hardwood floor coating. It is important to apply a topcoat sealer that is compatible with the type of stain you choose, as it will prevent scratches and moisture damage.

While some people prefer the look of dark stained wood, many homeowners find that a light-colored stain makes it easier to spot dirt, debris and high-traffic wear, making cleaning and maintenance less labor intensive. If you’re concerned about the time commitment of maintaining a dark stain, consider asking your floor professional to put some larger sample stain samples directly on your floor after they are done sanding it (or make you some portable samples that you can take with you). This will let you see exactly how the finished product is going to look in your room and ensure that you’re happy with the results.

Polyurethane

Polyurethane is a type of reaction polymer, consisting of two components: a polyol resin and an isocyanate hardener. When applied as a top coat, it protects hardwood floors by sealing them against moisture and imbuing them with durability. It is a good choice for flooring as it is easy to apply and provides resistance against household cleaners, water, abrasion, heat and chemicals.

Polyurethane also provides a smooth, glossy finish, which is great for those who want their floors to shine. A glossier coating also holds up better against scratches and is more resistant to wear than matte finishes. It is a good idea to test your floor’s suitability for a polyurethane coating before you commit to having it refinished. This is particularly important if your floor will be exposed to household cleaners as over time they will imbue the surface of the wood with their odors. A test area such as an exposed corner or under a window will let you know how well your floor holds up to the cleaners that you use.

When it comes to choosing a polyurethane, there are two options: oil-based and water-based. Oil-based products are typically less expensive than their water-based counterparts, but they can be more difficult to work with as they dry quickly and leave behind a sticky residue that is a pain to remove.

A good refinisher will have experience with both types of finishes and can help you determine which is best for your home. They will be able to guide you through the process of choosing a stain, sanding and applying a polyurethane coating. They will know how many coats are needed to achieve your desired results and how to avoid common mistakes like orange peeling, lap marks and brush strokes.

As with all finishes, drying/curing times will vary depending on the brand you choose, room temperature and humidity, air flow, whether or not you add a retarder and other factors outside of your control. However, when you consider how much faster a refinisher can complete the process of redoing your hardwood floors and the benefits that it will bring to your home, it is well worth the investment!

Sealing

Hardwood floors are not indestructible, and over time they will show signs of wear and tear. Scratches, dents and discoloration can occur, and these signs can be indicators that it’s time to refinish or reseal your hardwood floors.

The process of refinishing or resealing is an important one that helps maintain the longevity and beauty of your hardwood flooring. While many people rely on a professional to take care of this task, it is possible for homeowners to complete the job themselves. However, it is important to understand that this can be a messy and time-consuming project, especially if the wood has been stained.

Before beginning this process, it is a good idea to consult an NWFA (National Wood Flooring Association) certified flooring expert. These professionals have taken an extensive test to earn this title, and they can help you determine the best way to refinish or reseal hardwood floors. They can also give you a more precise estimate on how long the process will take and what it will cost.

The first step in refinishing or resealing your hardwood floors is to lightly sand them once again. This can be done by hand, but it is much easier and faster to use a large rotary sander. This will help create a smooth surface for the next layer of finish to adhere to. After sanding, it is very important to thoroughly vacuum the entire floor to remove all dust and debris. It’s recommended to wear breathing protection during this process, as sanding produces a large amount of dust that can be harmful to your health.

After sanding, the next step is to apply a coat of sealer. This will protect the wood from dirt and moisture, which can damage or cause the color of the hardwood to fade over time. It is a good idea to consider using an environmentally friendly water-based polyurethane, as it takes less time to dry and produces fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than oil-based products.

Once the sealant is applied, it is very important to let it dry completely before proceeding to the staining or refinishing process. This can take a few days, depending on the weather conditions in your area.

Costs of Stucco Repair

Randal Perkins Stucco Repair , , , , ,
Stucco Repair

Stucco Repair Philadelphia is a fairly expensive project if extensive damage has occurred. The exact costs will vary depending on the extent of the work and materials needed.Stucco Repair

Use a hammer and cold chisel to chip away loose stucco. Protect yourself with safety goggles and heavy gloves. Cut away the rusting metal lath and torn house wrap around the damaged area.

Stucco is a durable material that has been used for thousands of years to add beauty, insulation, and longevity to building structures. However, it is not immune to defects. Cracks are a natural part of the lifespan of any exterior wall and should be addressed as soon as possible to minimize the potential damage.

The first thing to do when dealing with cracks is to chip away any loose pieces of stucco and remove dirt and algae from the area. Make sure to wear work gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from flying debris when doing this step.

When applying the caulking, use a trowel to match the texture and appearance of the surrounding stucco. This will ensure a smooth blend and allow the caulking to expand or contract with temperature changes without further cracking. After the caulk has cured, paint it with a water-based paint to complete the repair. It is important to note that when you touch the repaired crack, it will still feel flexible. This is normal and attests to the strength of the caulk. If it feels stiff or rigid, this may indicate that the underlying problem is more severe and needs to be looked at further.

Stucco cracks are natural and will happen with time, especially in older homes. It is essential to do a yearly inspection to catch any defects early on and take corrective action as needed. However, improper repairs can exacerbate the rate of cracking and lead to more serious structural issues. It is essential to use only approved products and methods during the repair process. If you do not do this, you will find that the crack will open up again quickly, which can also exacerbate the growth of mold.

Holes

Holes in stucco are an easy fix and should be repaired immediately to prevent further damage. Most of the time, they are caused by water or moisture that has penetrated the stucco and the protective layer of tar paper. Moisture is very dangerous to a stucco wall and should be prevented at all costs, especially in cold-climate areas. If moisture gets trapped in a wall, it can lead to structural issues that will be costly to repair.

In addition to a hammer and chisel, the most important tool you will need for this job is a wire brush. This tool can be used to clean the hole and the surrounding area. Make sure you brush the entire area, including around the edges of the hole, to ensure that there is no dirt or debris lodged inside the holes.

Once the area has been cleaned, you will need to apply high-quality caulking around the hole to create a seal and prevent moisture from penetrating the hole again. Once the caulking has cured, you can then proceed to apply a small amount of stucco patch material to the hole. This can be either a pre-mixed compound or sanded stucco. It is very important to use a material that contains acrylic additives. This will help the patch material react with the surrounding expansion and contraction of the stucco.

If you are able to, use a rubber float to smooth out the patch and blend it with the existing texture. Once the stucco patch dries, you can paint it a color that matches the surrounding walls.

If the hole is a result of poor construction, you may need to replace the damaged section of your wall. This is especially true if the hole was caused by an impact. This is because the force of the impact can cause the structural framing to weaken, leading to future cracks and holes in your stucco. If you suspect that your stucco is not in good condition, contact a professional contractor to discuss the best solution for your home.

Peeling Paint

If your stucco is peeling, it is usually a sign that the surface of the wall has lost its bond with either the underlayers or lath. This can occur when the weather is cold and damp or when there are problems with the mortar mix. Either way, it is not good for the structure of your home and should be fixed immediately.

It is important to understand that while it is possible to repair small hairline cracks in stucco yourself, if you are not sure what caused the problem, it may be more serious than you think and should be left to a professional. In some cases, such as spider cracking (where the base coat under the top coat did not cure properly), it is probably necessary to completely reapply the stucco.

The first step in repairing peeling paint is to remove any loose pieces of stucco that are coming off. This is usually not difficult, but if the peeling has gotten severe, you may need to use a wire brush to loosen any remaining dirt. It is also a good idea to clean the entire area that is being repaired with a pressure washer to ensure that any remaining dirt or mildew is removed.

Once the area has been cleaned, a pre-mixed stucco patch can be troweled over the damaged surface. It is best to follow the instructions on the package carefully to ensure that you don’t mix up any ingredients accidentally. The patching product should be applied as thinly as possible to avoid any unsightly lines in the finished wall. It is also a good idea to add some pigment to the stucco mix in order to match it to the existing color of the wall.

Once the patch has dried, it should be sanded down with a sanding block to ensure that the new material is smooth. A textured coating can be added at this point, if desired. It is best to wait for the patch to fully dry before painting, as paint will not adhere well to wet stucco.

Water Damage

When water gets into a wall, it can soak insulation, cause mold, or lead to wood rot. This is why it is important to inspect your stucco regularly and have any leaks or water penetrations repaired as soon as possible.

Look for cracks around windows or other fixtures, as well as any discoloration that could indicate rotting wood behind the stucco. You may also want to inspect for stains or bubbles near the bottom edges of your walls, as water tends to flow down and cause damage there.

If you notice water intrusion into your stucco, it is a good idea to call in the professionals for a full inspection and repair. This will usually involve removing any damaged sections of stucco, inspecting and cleaning any mold or wood rot, installing a new drainage plane material to prevent more water intrusion, adding a vapor barrier, modifying weep screeds, or patching the area.

Stucco is an excellent choice for homes in coastal areas, as it resists saltwater corrosion much better than other materials. However, even in a mild climate, water intrusion into the wall can be a major problem. There are several factors that can cause this, including salt water or wind-driven rain, improper flashing, expansion or contraction of the stucco, and the growth of vegetation or plants on the surface of the home.

It is also very important to check the caulking around doors and windows, as this will seal against moisture penetration and leaks. If you find that the caulking is cracked or missing, it will need to be replaced before any stucco work can take place.

If the water damage is severe, it will require more extensive work to correct it. Stucco remediation will be required, which means removing the existing stucco, repairing or replacing any rotted sheathing or framing, and then rebuilding the system, starting with a proper WRB and progressing outward in either masonry or EIFS.

It is important to keep in mind that stucco can be beautiful and that water damage can sometimes occur without any real issue. However, if it goes untreated for too long, it can start to create major problems and impact the value of your home. Stucco repair can be relatively inexpensive and easy to do if you catch the problems before they get too bad.

Roofing Contractors and What They Can Do For You

George Lees Roofing , , , ,
Roofing

Roofing Companies Colorado Springs install and repair a variety of roof components. These contractors have the knowledge and skills to handle all the details, from installing shingles to fixing leaks. This article will introduce roofing contractors and what they can do for you. You can also check out our blog for more information about roofing contractors. This article will cover a few common questions you might have. If you want to hire a roofing contractor, ask about their experience and certifications.Roofing

A roof is a series of different components that protect the interior of a building. One of these is the roof truss. This system is composed of many pieces that work together to support the covering, underlayment, insulation, and other roofing components. It also allows various design options, such as a skylight or a chimney. Here are some of the most common types of roofing and how they work.

Roofing contractors manage the details

Managing a job’s details requires good organizational skills and a centralized database. Roofing CRMs can help contractors track customer information, material orders, aerial measurements, and billing details. Contractors can use these databases to share client information. They can also store notes and photos of the job site. The software can also keep track of materials, invoices, and receipts. CRMs can save contractors time by enabling them to manage multiple jobs simultaneously and improve their productivity.

Roofing contractors install shingles

If you’re in the market for a new roof, a roofing contractor is an excellent resource for finding one in your area. Before deciding which company to hire, you should gather information about the contractor and their business license. You should also ask if they have the necessary insurance. This will minimize any financial risks, increase the chances of getting a professional installation, and protect your property.

Roofing contractors install shingles in different ways. Some are easier to install than others. In closed valleys, shingles are installed over the area where two planes meet. These roofs are more attractive and require fewer materials, but they aren’t as cost-effective because shingles cannot lay flat across the joint. In addition, closed valleys tend to require reinforcement on the roof’s decking.

Another common type of roofing job is reroofing. In this method, a roofing contractor applies a new roof over the old one without tearing it off. The process takes two days, and the final result will be an attractive roof. However, this method can only be used once, since the roof can only have two layers of shingles. If you are unsure of the process, hiring a professional roofer for this project may be better.

Roofing contractors repair shingles

Rather than replace your entire roof, you can have a roofing contractor repair shingles. Roofing sealant is relatively inexpensive and can be applied using a caulking gun. It costs between $4 and $6 per ounce. You’ll need about 24 hours for the sealant to cure. Roofing sealant is a good choice for cracked shingles, which are not large enough to require replacing. To use roofing sealant to repair cracked shingles, apply a thick bead under and over the crack. If you have to, use a putty knife to spread the sealant.

Depending on the type of shingle problem, a roofing contractor can replace your entire roof or just a portion. A leaking roof is urgent, as it can lead to dangerous mold and other problems. Moreover, a sagging roof may signify a more serious problem and should be immediately replaced. Roofing contractors repair shingles should be contacted for this purpose if you notice that some shingles are missing or cracked.

The shingle roof is susceptible to deterioration due to the constant erosion of the sun and hail. The shingles may become loose and develop hairline cracks, allowing water to leak through the barrier between the shingle and the roof. Furthermore, shingles may also become loose because of the earth’s vibrations and temperature changes. A roofing contractor can repair small portions of a shingle roof and replace the remaining shingles.

Roofing contractors inspect roof

Whether you’re planning to replace your roof after a storm or just looking to repair it before a disaster strikes, it’s essential to ensure you get the proper services. Before you hire a roofing contractor, make sure that you have them inspect your roof first. Home inspectors are often not roofing experts, so they recommend that you get your roof inspected separately.

Your premium will depend on the value of your house and whether or not you’re likely to file a claim. If your home inspector notices any problems with the roof during the inspection, you should contact a roofing contractor. Moreover, home insurance providers will likely require you to have your roof inspected as part of the process.

While many people might recommend that you call a roofing contractor for an inspection, it’s important to keep in mind that these companies will have a vested interest in selling their product and won’t be objective. Hiring a roofing contractor is inexpensive, and the peace of mind you get will pay for itself often. A professional roof inspection will also give you peace of mind when making insurance and loan payments. After all, who doesn’t want to have peace of mind when the weather turns bad?

Another important component of a roof inspection is checking for the proper installation of shingles. If the shingles aren’t installed properly, they will not last as long as they could have if they were properly installed. Inspectors will look for nails that are placed sideways or on cracks. They’ll also look for loose or cracked shingles, cracking shingles, and blistering shingles. Furthermore, they’ll also check the condition of your gutters and downspouts. If they’re not installed correctly, debris can back up.

Roofing contractors install insulation

Roofing contractors can install insulation in many ways. Foam board is a cost-effective option, but the cost can be a little high for some clients. Foam board typically comes in four-by-eight-foot sheets and costs about $0.25 to $1.50 per square foot. Fortunately, foam board is easy to install because it’s rigid and can be cut to fit any space. The R-value of this type of insulation varies from 3.6 to 5.6 per inch. It is also easier to work with than Expanded Polystyrene foam, which comprises 98 percent trapped air.

Roofing contractors install insulation and other types of home insulation, such as roof deck insulation, to protect your home and increase its value. When roofing contractors perform the installation, they wear protective gear to protect their bodies and the environment. This includes a face mask and goggles. Other equipment may be required, depending on the type of insulation. If you are inexperienced in DIY projects, you should ask a contractor to give you a quote so you can make an informed decision.

Roofing contractors install insulation in many different ways. A common method is spreading loose insulation throughout the attic floor, while a less common method involves laying expanding foam on the underside of the roof deck. Insulation blown in can be installed in as little as a day. Whether blown-in or blown-out, insulation installation is essential to the health and safety of Northwest homes.

When hiring a roofing contractor, please read the entire contract before signing it. The contract is an important document that outlines the work’s terms and conditions and payment schedules. Because you are legally required to use the contractor for a set period, it is critical that you thoroughly read the contract. Other options exist if something does not appear right, such as hiring a different contractor.