Author: Keith Laughlin

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.

Radiant Barrier

Keith Laughlin Insulation , , , ,
Radiant Barrier

Radiant Barrier Houston keeps homes in warm climates cooler without cranking up the air conditioning. In some cases, it can even reduce cooling costs compared to thermal insulation materials.Radiant Barrier

Radiant barriers are installed in attics to limit the amount of heat that reaches the living space. But they need to be installed correctly to work properly.

Radiant barriers are foil-backed insulation that is typically installed in the attic of new-construction homes. They can also be used in the attics of existing homes if the proper construction methods are followed.

Unlike conventional insulation, radiant barriers have a low emissivity factor of about 0.1. Combined with a high R-value, this allows them to effectively reflect radiant heat away from the attic space. A radiant barrier can save a home owner money in energy costs by lowering the amount of time an air conditioner must run.

The primary reason radiant barriers work is because they prevent the movement of thermal radiation that comes from the sun through the roof. Without a radiant barrier, this radiation will warm the attic and, subsequently, the living spaces below. The heat moves from room to room through convection, but with a reflective barrier installed in the attic, this radiant heat is reflected away. This keeps the attic cooler, which in turn keeps the living spaces below cooler.

A radiant barrier can even be used on buildings with metal roofs, where the conductive properties of the metal can cause it to get quite hot. It is important to note that radiant barriers will not be as effective in all locations because some building proportions increase the movement of thermal radiation, making a radiant barrier less efficient. Generally, roofs with a steeper slope, more direct sunlight, and poor ventilation will need additional insulation along with a radiant barrier to achieve optimum efficiency.

Because of their low emissivity, radiant barriers are able to reflect up to 97% of radiant heat, meaning that they have higher R-values than most attic or wall insulation types. The insulating capabilities of radiant barriers can be substantially increased if they are installed in conjunction with conventional insulation.

In order to provide a true R-value, the radiant barrier must be installed in a ventilated attic and surrounded by insulation of an appropriate R-value and cellulose density. A properly installed radiant barrier will protect the attic and the entire house from radiant heat loss, allowing a much more comfortable temperature in all rooms and savings in both heating and cooling costs.

Why do I need a radiant barrier?

The most common reason for installing a radiant barrier is to reduce cooling costs. It does this by preventing your attic from heating up, reducing the need to cool the house. However, it also increases the efficiency of your insulation. This is because, with a radiant barrier installed, the air in your attic will stay cooler, meaning that the other insulation materials in your attic can do their job of keeping the rest of your home cool.

A radiant barrier works like a reflective sunshade for your roof, directing the sun’s heat back into the atmosphere. It does not prevent heat transfer by conduction or convection, so it is often supplemented with other insulation products that do.

Different types of radiant barriers offer varying degrees of reflectivity and emissivity, as well as durability, strength, water vapor permeability, and flammability. Some are made of plastic films, while others are made of kraft paper or plywood roof sheathing with foil laminated on top. Some are even available in spray-on form. Before buying a radiant barrier, it is important to understand its specifications, as the cost can vary greatly. Radiant barriers are often offered in packages with other energy-saving features, such as blown-in insulation, to save you time and money.

When comparing prices, it is important to consider the type of attic and its existing insulation. Some radiant barriers come pre-laminated and can be simply tucked into the attic under the roof sheathing. This is the most commonly used method of installation. It is best to avoid stapling the radiant barrier directly on top of existing insulation because it may trap moisture, causing it to degrade over time.

For homes with ductwork in the attic, a radiant barrier is especially beneficial because it can help keep the ducts cool as well. This can extend the life of your ductwork and the life of your HVAC system as a whole, as well as keep you and your family comfortable all year. It is a simple and relatively inexpensive solution to reducing your summer cooling bills.

How do I install a radiant barrier?

The primary purpose of a radiant barrier is to reflect the sun’s heat away from the home, and it can be installed in a variety of ways. It can be placed under roof sheathing, draped over joists or rafters, or laid out over existing insulation on the attic floor. The latter is the most popular method, as it keeps heat out in the summer and warm air in during the winter, providing a year-round energy-saving benefit.

If you’re installing a radiant barrier in an existing home, make sure that you do not cover any ductwork and that any junction boxes, electrical wiring, or plumbing vents are exposed. Also, be sure to carefully inspect your attic for any signs of moisture that may have accumulated over time. Moisture can impact the performance of your radiant barrier, reducing its efficiency.

You’ll also want to check your attic ventilation to make sure that it’s adequate and to ensure that you don’t have any ridge or gable vents blocked with roofing materials. This will allow the attic to vent properly and will help to ensure that your radiant barrier is working as it should.

To install a radiant barrier over existing insulation, you’ll need to clear the attic, then measure and cut the foil to size, overlapping and stapling as necessary to cover the attic space. You can use a standard staple gun for this job, but it’s a good idea to test the thickness of your staples on a scrap piece of radiant barrier before using them in order to prevent jamming and incomplete penetration. Once the radiant barrier is in place, be sure to remove any loose material and re-staple any areas that have come undone. It’s also a good idea to inspect the foil regularly for any holes, punctures, or tears that should be repaired as soon as possible. This will keep the reflective surface intact and minimize the loss of heat-reflecting properties over time. Periodic inspections and timely repairs will ensure that your radiant barrier continues to provide maximum energy-saving benefits for years to come.

Which Way Should a Radiant Barrier Face?

When a radiant barrier is installed in an attic, it should be draped over the existing insulation. Some radiant barriers come with adhesive on one side to help hold them in place. When installing the adhesive side of the radiant barrier, be sure that it is pointing toward your attic floor. If you are using a non-perforated radiant barrier, it will need to be stapled to the attic floor joists over the existing insulation in order to perform well. If you are using a perforated radiant barrier, it can be placed over the attic floor insulation or over the joists. The perforations in the barrier allow water vapor to pass through the insulation, preventing condensation.

In most homes, the attic is under-insulated. This can lead to higher cooling costs during the summer. A radiant barrier can lower your energy costs by decreasing the amount of heat that travels from your roof into your home.

A radiant barrier works by reflecting the sun’s rays back into the atmosphere. It is very similar to the way a reflective sunshade on your car prevents UV radiation from warming the interior of your vehicle. A radiant barrier can also decrease the amount of heat that transfers through your attic ceiling into your home, saving you money on your electricity bill.

When choosing a radiant barrier, it is important to consider its R-value and emissivity. A radiant barrier with a high R-value and low emissivity will offer the best performance.

Some radiant barriers are made of foam or bubbles that are enveloped by two or more surfaces of foil. These materials have a higher R-value than a pure aluminized film radiant barrier, but they aren’t as effective in reducing heating costs.

When selecting a radiant barrier, make sure it meets all fire rating requirements. USI offers several different products that meet the highest fire ratings of Class A and Class 1, tested under ASTM E84 with the optional E2599 mounting method. You should also consider the permeability of the material. USI offers both breathable and non-breathable radiant barriers. It is important to use a breathable radiant barrier, especially in cold climates, in order to avoid condensation and moisture problems. In addition, it is important to inspect your insulation at regular intervals. These inspections can assist you in identifying and repairing any moisture issues that may be present.

Why Hire a Sewage Cleanup Service?

Keith Laughlin Mold Removal , , , ,
Mold Removal

When you call a sewage cleanup service to help you clean up sewage in your home or business. Sewage cleanup professionals will provide a thorough, professional cleanup that will leave your home or business looking cleaner than ever. They use industrial cleaning equipment to remove sewage and other substances and sanitize the contaminated area. They will remove any contaminated materials from your home or business, including carpets, furniture, and walls. They will then use brushes and power washers to clean and disinfect contaminated areas.

Mold RemovalSewage spill cleanup must be completed quickly and thoroughly. The first step in cleaning up a sewage spill is to remove all upholstered furniture and contaminated surfaces. Next, you should disinfect the area with a solution of eight tablespoons of liquid household bleach per gallon of water. Using a sewage odor neutralizer to control the smell would be best.

Sewage cleanup can be expensive and can disrupt routines. It’s important to clean up as quickly as possible to avoid exposure to harmful bacteria and foul odors. The sewage can be a source of infection for your family, so make sure to use protective equipment and clean up products properly. You’ll also need a heavy-duty shop vac and buckets to collect the solids and other debris.

Sewage cleanup can be dangerous and expose you to dangerous pathogens and toxic materials. While tackling the sewage cleanup yourself may be tempting, you should not do it yourself unless you’re completely certain you can handle the job. Make sure to get help with professional sewage cleanup from a restoration company.

If a sewage backup has damaged your home, call a sewage cleanup service as soon as possible. Sewage is extremely dangerous and can be highly toxic, so it’s important to hire a professional to clean it up. If you can, take photos of the damage. Photos are also useful when you file an insurance claim.

Aside from sewage contamination in the floor, it can also affect the HVAC ducts in your home. Oftentimes, sewage water enters HVAC ducts through ceilings and other areas. HVAC equipments can also become contaminated by sewage-contaminated dust. These items must be cleaned up to prevent the spread of infectious disease. The process of sewage cleanup should begin with an inspection. If the water level has gone up to unsafe levels, a cleanup company will be able to eliminate the problem.

If you notice foul odors in your home, the problem is likely to be a sewer problem. In some cases, you can spot the problem early and prevent a major catastrophe. Eventually, a sewer backup can result in a massive sewer overflow, and a complete sewer backup.

Sewage cleanup costs are difficult to estimate, but most services follow a common pricing model. The average cost of sewage cleanup services is around $7.00 per square foot, but the final cost will depend on the extent of the damage, plumbing problems, and porous building materials. The cost of the cleanup service will include the cleaning, remediation, and reconstruction. If you want to avoid spending thousands of dollars, hire a professional service to remove the contaminated area and restore the home.

You need to act quickly if a sewage backup happens in your home. Even if you’re not home when it happens, it’s important to call a sewage cleanup service as soon as possible. If you leave the spill unchecked, you risk spreading the hazardous sewage to other parts of the home. It’s also a violation of health and plumbing codes to leave a sewage leak unattended. You may even have to contact the health department to make sure your home or business is safe from a sewer overflow.

A sewage backup happens when a sewer main or drain pipe becomes blocked. It can be caused by a broken sewer main, a flood, or a large object that gets stuck in the pipe. Overgrown tree roots can also break through a sewer line and cause a backflow of sewage into homes and businesses.

Sewage is an organic shipping way of disease and infection. In case the sewage isn’t cleaned and removed, it can pose a significant danger to the people who live in that affected location. After you have cleaned up sewage in your house, you should now clean the things which may have come into contact with the sewage. Poor Air Quality Sewage can contain lots of unique elements that contribute to bad air quality in the house.