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What You Should Know Before Building A Commercial Building

Aug 01

building design and construction

 

Building a commercial building can be a very large undertaking and before you jump right into it there’s a lot you should take into consideration. By taking the time beforehand to carefully plan and consider all of the details, you could save yourself a lot of time and money down the road. Schroeder Construction Management has a deep appreciation for historical beauty and keeping the integrity of a building. Here are a few things you should know and consider before deciding to build a commercial building!

 

Establish Your Budget and Finances

Before you begin anything, the first thing you should do is establish a budget. There’s no point in investing if it’s not going to financially benefit you in the future. Whether this means hiring a financial advisor or looking through the numbers with someone on your team, make sure you know what your budget cap is before beginning the process so that the design and building team know what the goal is. Perhaps consider aiming below that maximum budget to leave yourself room for unexpected additional costs as well. 

 

Choose a Location

When deciding where you want to build, there is more to consider than just the price. Location is arguably the most important aspect. Take into account your target consumer and try to find a location near them. Additionally, scope out the area for potential competition that could affect your business negatively. If that is the case, then perhaps consider a different location.

 

design build construction

 

Plan the Logistics  

Next you want to find an area that is zoned for commercial development. Taking that into account, begin getting specific information and restrictions on what is permitted for that area. Gathering that information early can save money during the building’s design stage, if those restrictions are already ironed out. After, begin considering how the building will accommodate its clients and employees, what type of technology needs to be available there, parking area, etc. These accommodations will greatly differ based on the type of business you own. 

 

Hire Schroeder Construction Management for Commercial Building 

Schroeder Construction Management, Inc. emphasizes commercial design-build, guiding your project from the conceptual phase through completion and to your satisfaction with a personal, hands-on approach. We have the construction management experience and skills to construct your commercial building based on your unique business needs.

 

If you have any questions, please contact us by giving us a call at (603) 882-1822.

What is Design-Build & Why is it so Effective?

Jul 01

design-build

Construction can be a complicated process with numerous moving parts and small details, each holding immense importance. When you are looking to hire a construction company you need to have peace of mind to know that the job will get done right and time efficiently. One of the best ways to ensure that is to hire a design-build contractor. Schroeder Construction Management works as a design-build construction manager, providing professional construction services in commercial, industrial, and municipal fields of construction. Here is an explanation of design-build and its advantages! 

 

What is Design-Build? 

 

In short, it means simplicity. The design-build approach is when both the design and the construction are done by the same company or person. This makes managing the project easier since everything is being done by one contractor. The fairly common alternative is that the design is done by a different contractor/company than the construction is, which means that the owner must relay information from one company to another, so you can see why keeping it under one roof, so to speak, would make it more simple. 

 

commercial building

 

What are the 3 Key Advantages to Design-Build?

  1. Better Communication: Especially when it comes to construction, communication is arguably the most important aspect. Having effective and efficient communication can make all the difference. With design-build, communication is made as simple as possible. The team is used to working together to problem-solve and therefore has experience with how each other works. Additionally, there is no back and forth between different design contractors and construction contractors, which has historically led to misunderstanding. Workers can get the information they need almost immediately.
  2. Quicker Project Completion: When you have great communication you are also able to work faster. The design-build method cuts down on the time. Rather than having to wait for another team to finish, the team can better coordinate each step and work around one another to eliminate hold-ups. Working as a team to solve problems and think creatively, a design-build method can streamline the project.

  3. More Cost-Effective: Traditionally, the owner is unable to know the specifics of cost until the design is completed which can create unexpected cost increases. However, the design-build method allows those specifics earlier in the process. This vastly minimizes costly consequences later on. Due to the proactive approach, should above budget costs arise, the team can cut down on the financial burden to the client since it was caught early. 

 

Schroeder Construction Management, Inc. 

 

Schroeder Construction Management has an emphasis on commercial design-build, guiding your project from the conceptual phase through completion and to your satisfaction with a personal, hands-on approach. We have the construction management experience and skills to complete complex tasks.

If you have any questions, please contact us by giving us a call at (603) 882-1822.

Building Design and Construction: The Benefits of Hiring The Professionals

Feb 01

building design and construction

It is all too easy, especially with the accessibility of information on the internet, to be tempted to complete a massive project on your own. When it comes to building design and construction, it’s safe to say this is one area where experts are a must. Performing do-it-yourself alterations like painting a bedroom or installing a tile floor is one thing, but managing a personal construction project is an entirely different situation. It is always better to call a construction management company and rely on the experts when your construction project can quickly get out of control.

More Resources

Employing a construction management firm opens doors and connections that you could never have by completing the project yourself. Our reputation and experience in the industry means we have experienced staff and a fleet of vendors to get high-quality materials. The resources behind us here at Schroeder can turn your project into a work of art.

Precision

A construction manager’s experience means they understand how long projects will take to complete and plan each step to the highest level of efficiency strategically. This allows his team to multitask without sacrificing the attention to detail it’ll take to get everything right.

Proper Precautions

When you hire a team of professionals, they will take care of each detail. All of the necessary paperwork, permits, and other miscellaneous items will be taken care of. You will be sure the process is legal, proper, and well done. If you were to try to complete all the proper precautions on your own for the first time, there’s a chance you’ll miss something significant – halting your project.

Less Stress

Doing a construction project all by yourself is not a small challenge. Although you’re motivated and ready to go in the beginning, this eagerness will likely wear off when the tedious tasks start to pile up. Hiring a construction manager alleviates this stress and allows you to complete the project of your dreams without having to screw in 30 light switch covers by hand.

Even if the project is small, it can quickly spiral out of control without guidance. Professionals here at Schroeder Construction Management will work with you to keep your project on track from the initial building design and construction phases.

For more information on how our experts can ensure your project goes smoothly, contact Schroeder today at (603)-882-1822!

4 of the Most Famous Steel Buildings Around the World

Sep 25

If there’s one thing for certain, it’s that steel buildings are serious business. Steel is the foundation for some of the tallest, most impressive structures worldwide. Because our team is devoted to all aspects of design-build, we’re taking this moment to give credit where credit is due.

In this article, we’re looking at four of the most impressive steel buildings ever built. While, of course, there are several more, these four have captured the attention of millions and remain standing to this day.

Eiffel Tower

Possibly one of the most famous structures worldwide, located in the heart of Paris, the Eiffel Tower is hands-down impressive. Built in 1889 for the Universal Exhibition, this iconic landmark took a mere 2 years, 2 months, and 5 days to complete. Quite the accomplishment given the time and equipment on hand.

The design of the Eiffel Tower was a combined effort of 50 engineers and designers who began work in January of 1887. On March 31, 1889, and 7,300 tons of iron and 2.5 million rivets later, the project was complete. Standing  1,050 feet above ground level, the Eiffel Tower held the title of the world’s tallest structure for 42 years.

steel buildings

Empire State Building

Another household name among icon structures is the Empire State Building located in New York City. Designed in 1931, this structure was one that was undoubtedly ahead of its time. Standing at 1.454 feet, this 103-story skyscraper held the title of the world’s tallest structure for nearly 40 years, but took under one year to construct!

building construction

Willis (Sears) Tower

If you’ve ever traveled to Chicago, the Sears Tower, also referred to as the Willis Tower, is one that can’t be missed. Standing 1,450 feet high, construction of the 110-story building began in 1970 and took three years to reach completion. Featuring a steel-framed bundled-tube construction method, building the tower took the efforts of over 2,000 construction workers and 76,000 tons of steel.

steel construction nh

Burj Khalifa

Standing as the world’s tallest man-made structure since its opening in 2009, the Burj Khalifa is located in Dubai. With 163 floors, the building was also designed with a steel-framed bundled-tube construction method. Upon completion, the final calculations leave the structure standing 2,716.5 feet with over 4,400 shorts ton; 3,900 long tons of structural steel, concrete, and glass paneling.

nh construction management

As you can see, the construction of steel buildings is no joke! When properly planned and executed, a steel structure is one of the most reliable solutions. However, it takes a team of dedicated experts to design and successfully implement such a project with the precision required. At Schroeder Construction Management, you’ll find just that.

If construction of steel buildings is in your future, we are your solution. Contact Schroeder Construction Management today for more information (603) 882-1822.

Benefits of Historical & Energy Renovation

Nov 26

Being from New England, we’re surrounded by historically beautiful buildings almost everywhere we go. But just because they’re nice to look at and give our community unique charm, doesn’t mean they are always an efficient use of space. Often, the design of these buildings is outdated, and the systems and architecture prevent it being used to its full capacity. By employing the use of energy renovation and historical renovation experts, you can breathe new life into these structures and make them a valued part of the community.

What’s Unique About These Renovations?

Both historical and energy renovations are different than traditional improvements because they aim to keep the space looking the same – or at least similar – aesthetically. Instead of tackling things like paint color and new floors, these types of renovations make the area more efficient (both spatially and energy wise) while keeping historical charm. Although some ornamental changes might happen, like adding a wall to divide the space or changing the windows to more energy efficient ones, the general idea is to keep the historic atmosphere alive.

Why Bother?

Why would you change anything? What’s the point if it won’t make a difference in appearance? Well, older buildings may not be up to the latest safety codes, for one. Making “behind the scenes” renovations allow the building to be used again! From weight limitations to electricity, making historical improvements can turn an underutilized space into everyone’s favorite place to stop. In addition to general safety codes, building ordinances may also be in place in regards to energy efficiency and how a building runs. In this case, old buildings will need updates – like new windows or HVAC systems – to make sure they’re using energy in the best way possible.

Think about the historic buildings in your town. Are they being utilized? Some cities choose to turn these buildings into historical monuments, while some use them as modern offices or even community hubs like libraries and town halls. Through historical and energy renovation projects, you can add something beautiful to your community. Click here to browse our gallery of recent projects.

The Convenience of Choosing a Design Build Organization

Oct 26

Designing and building a structure from the beginning takes a lot of effort. Each step requires serious attention to detail and the forethought to predict and solve any problems that may occur in the next step. If you haven’t already, considering a design build construction firm, like the professionals here at Schroeder, can drastically cut down on the time it takes to complete an already lengthy process.

 

No Miscommunication

A design build construction organization works by keeping all aspects of the process, including both designing the building and constructing it, inhouse. It allows people within the organization to collaborate and decide the best course of action. By going with a design firm and build company separately, you open the doors for miscommunication or mistakes. These can set back your timeline and even increase how much the project will cost you.

 

Fewer “Go Betweens”

On the same token, streamlining the process to one company minimizes the number of people involved. You eliminate the “too many cooks in the kitchen” dilemma and can focus on the opinions and ideas of those who know the project best. Also, you won’t have to go back and forth between different points of contact to get a question answered. By choosing a firm that does it all, you’ll only ever have to make one call to receive updates and information on the progress of your property.

 

Jack of All Trades

Here at Schroeder, our design build teams are curated groups of individuals who each have a specialty. That means that during each step of the process, you’ll have an expert available to recognize any potential problems and to suggest solutions. If you address each step individually, you might find yourself back at square one if something goes wrong. For example, the floorplan you designed may create a problem when it comes to installing electrical, and you don’t notice until the property build is well underway. By choosing a firm that does it all, we can address this problem before it becomes an issue.

 

Choosing a design build construction organization like the professionals here at Schroeder can streamline the process of building a new property for you. We’ll meticulously plan each detail to make sure the space will work perfectly for your needs. For more information or to speak with a design build specialist, call 603-882-1822.

Why Choose Metal Buildings?

Sep 26

If you’re in the market for a new commercial building, there’s no doubt you’ve been bombarded with decisions lately. Where are you going to build? How much square footage do you need? What kind of material is it going to be? Here at Schroeder Construction, we want to help you make the most informed choices and create a property that’s conducive to your needs. We specialize in commercial construction, especially metal buildings, and we can help decide if it’s for you.

Easy to Maintain

Metal buildings are popular for commercial use due to their ability to retain temperature. Whether you need to keep the building hot or cold, the temperature is less likely to falter with the weather outside. They are great at retaining heat, which means cost savings for you when it comes to utility costs. Better yet, your energy savings could be so significant that the government rewards you with a tax break for being so environmentally friendly!

Quick Build

Choosing metal over other materials can also translate to cost savings when it comes to building costs. They are easier and faster to build than traditional builds, so you won’t have to experience significant downtime or high labor costs. The pieces of metal are prefabricated to fit together, so they only need to be put together like a puzzle on site.

Customizable & Durable

Another perk of using metal buildings compared to other building materials is how customizable it is. People immediately think about steel sheds or barns, the design of a metal building is almost entirely up to you. From skylights and windows to exterior covers to make the property look brick, you can get whatever look you want in your new metal building.

Technology today has come a long way when it comes to construction processes and building materials. Metal buildings can be used for a variety of uses, is it right for you? Call 603-882-1822 to speak with a professional here at Schroeder Construction.

Importance of Energy Renovation

Aug 26

With more and more people seeking ways to be more energy efficient, the idea of energy renovation projects has taken off. Not only can they help minimize the effect you have on the planet, but they can save you money on your utility bills as well. And it’s not always a complete overhaul. Oftentimes, making little changes like switching to different light bulbs or installing new windows can have drastic effects. Every small thing matters, both to your wallet and to the planet.

The Process

Taking on an energy renovation may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Our team will come out to your location – either commercial or residential – and take a look around. We’ll perform an energy audit and try to determine what inefficiencies would be easiest to fix while saving you the most. Projects mentioned above such as window or light bulb replacement are common, but updating your HVAC system or insulating your property can improve energy efficiency as well.

The Benefits

Scientists everywhere are begging people to try and lessen their carbon footprint. Taking measures like installing solar panels and using a more efficient heating system could even get you a tax break. The federal government, as well as local government, often give stipends to offset installation costs. Not to mention lower overall costs that come with using less energy. Most of all, you’re taking the preemptive steps to minimize your energy use, and you probably won’t even notice.

If you’re doing an energy renovation on a commercial space, you could also reap the benefits of using your newfound sustainability to appeal to customers. More and more regular people are concerned with integrating environmentally friendly practices into their lives, so making these changes can create a competitive advantage for your organization. Whether you’re in it to save money, the planet, or to increase your customer base, our energy renovation team is here to help you meet your goals. For more information or to set up a consultation, call 603-882-1822.

Building Design and Construction Appreciation

Jul 26

Historical RestorationOur staff of professionals here at Schroeder is well versed in a variety of commercial construction projects. From revamping office space to designing and building entire factories, we have a lot of experience under our belts. Part of this experience comes with appreciation for the arts. We understand the work that goes into building design and construction, and can appreciate when that quality work was done. This appreciation is especially helpful when it comes to the restoration of historic buildings.

How Is Restoration Different?

The choice to take on a restoration project is a challenging one. It often comes with it’s own obstacles  that are very different from your traditional design build. It may be tempting to incorporate all of the newest technology and materials into the building, but that’s not always wise. When it comes to restoring historical buildings, the trick is to upgrade the building to meet all safety and health codes, plus some modern amenities, without losing any historic charm. This means a lot of “undercover” work of sorts. Rather than boast new light fixtures and high tech displays, restoration work typically includes structural repair and more behind the scenes things.

It Can Be Rewarding

It’s not to say that choosing to complete a restoration can’t be rewarding. Transforming a space from something decrepit and unusable into something functional and beautiful is a feat that can’t always be executed. Here at Schroeder Construction Management, our meticulous attention to detail is what makes it so easy to take on these projects. We understand the appeal of keeping a piece of history alive, while also using space in an efficient and safe manner.

To us, maintaining historic structures and turning them into livable space also connects us to our community. Southern New England has so much history to be shared, and we believe it deserves to live on. Projects like the Hunt Memorial Building and the Church of the Good Shepherd in Nashua remind us of the importance of quality building design and construction, and those who built the original buildings should be proud of their work.

Our team of builders and designers work hard on each project, including historical renovations. We enjoy contributing to the history of our community, and hope to make the original builders proud by helping their work live on. To see our gallery of recent projects, including historical restorations, please visit our gallery here.

Keeping Safe During Commercial Building

May 26

At Schroeder Construction Management, we take safety extremely seriously. With so much potential for disaster when it comes to construction, it’s important to us to that our staff is well versed in all safety protocol, and always has access to appropriate safety equipment. With an accident rate of almost 0, our commercial building services are some of the safest you can find in Southern New Hampshire.

Accident Statistics

In 2014, OSHA reported that one in ten construction workers are injured each year. Additionally, it’s estimated that on any given day, nearly 6,500,000 people work at 252,000 construction sites on any given day. To prevent contributing to this one in ten statistic, we give our employees some of the highest safety training available. A number of our staff are OSHA 30 certified, and we also carry an ISN rating of a B.

How to Stay Safe?

In addition to receiving an above average amount of safety training, we provide our employees with the proper equipment to maintain a safe environment. This includes, but is not limited to, flashlights, hard hats, neon vests, safety glasses, and ear protection. Falls have been proven to be the biggest cause of fatal construction injuries. Employing equipment such as harnesses, anchors, and guard rails minimizes the risk of a fall.

Experience Modification Rate

An Experience Modification Rate, or EMR, is an insurance rating that is used to determine workers’ compensation premiums for businesses. This is determined by the industry we are in (commercial building), as well as how many OSHA recordables are on file for a given year. If a company has an EMR of 1.0, they pay the industry average. Here at Schroeder Construction Management, we are proud of our 0.79 EMR, meaning we have below average OSHA recordables when compared to other construction firms.

We understand our staff are people with families and lives outside of the construction site, and we work hard to make sure they stay safe while on the job. We strive for perfection when it comes to safety, and every project that is completed without incident is a win in our book. For more information about our safety guidelines or to learn more about our recent projects, please visit our website here.

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