Choosing Between Panelized Construction and Stick Frame Construction

Posted on May 17, 2022 by bafcorp20

If you are a commercial real estate investor or business owner preparing for a new build, you get to make all the design and building decisions. The type of framing for your construction project will be one of them. Currently, the top two construction framing applications are panelized and stick frame construction. Continue below to learn more about choosing between stick frame construction and panelized construction, plus where to get started with preconstruction planning in Central Indiana.

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Building Options for New Construction

There are several building options available in the commercial construction industry. Paneled and stick frame construction have climbed the popularity ladder for their many benefits, yet they still come with some drawbacks. The right building option for you will depend on a few variables, one of which being your construction specifications.

Stick Frame Construction

Stick frame construction is a common building option that is considered to be the most traditional construction framing approach. For most, stick frame construction is the image that comes to mind when imagining a framed building structure on an active construction zone. Using the stick frame construction approach, loose lumber and materials are delivered to the site, then builders construct the framing of the building onsite. This is a common approach chosen by investors who do not have access to panelized metal fabrication in their region, cannot wait for customized panel delivery, or do not have enough time to plan more intricate design and build specifications.

Stick frame construction comes with many advantages. It allows for flexibility of design and modifications. It also a faster approach to construction because lumber is more widely available, easy to customize and deliver, and easy to work with. With stick frame construction, projects can break ground sooner and get done quicker.

On the downside, stick frame construction can pose some scheduling and budgeting risks. Many circumstances can affect both the availability of lumber and the integrity of the wood. Weather, natural disasters, economic influences, lumber demand, and supply chains can all delay construction projects, which can also have an impact on cost.

Panelized Construction

Opposite of stick frame, panelized construction involves using framing materials that are fabricated off-site, then transported to the construction site for final assembly. These pre-fabricated panels are typically reserved for flooring and walls, requiring large and heavy machinery to secure them into place. Because construction panels are manufactured at an off-site factory, there is notably less construction waste and leftover scrap material. Not only is this good for the environment, but it keeps costs down too. Panel framing is customizable and can be applied in a wide range of combinations, such as framing and exterior sheathing only, or exterior finishes with interior mechanical rough-in piping, and much more.

Paneled construction framing does require more time and attention during the planning and design phase. It can pose some challenges too. This building option is the costlier approach, often requiring additional expenses like shipping costs and expedite fees. And once the panels are fabricated and installed, little to no modifications can be made. This is why it is critical to have enough time to devote to the design phase.

Are you ready to begin the planning and preconstruction process for your new commercial build in Indiana? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for professional commercial construction in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and industrial clients all throughout Central Indiana.

How Drone Technology Benefits the Commercial Real Estate Proprietor

Posted on April 2, 2021 by bafcorp20

You may have seen the neighbor’s kid outside playing with their drone toy; or perhaps even have one in your own possession for recreational uses on trips and to document special occasions. But have you ever thought about the benefits drone technology offers our society in a more professional way? When it comes to the commercial real estate market, drones are making a big difference in quality, efficiency, and value for proprietors. They are literally revolutionizing commercial real estate marketing and procurement.

Continue below to learn how, and where you can get started with space planning for your commercial location in Indiana.

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Commercial Drone Applications and Advantages

Commercial real estate brokers, proprietors, and builders can all benefit from the various applications of drone technology in their industry. From selecting a site location and marketing packages to property management, logistics, site planning, utility mapping, and more. Just see for yourself:

Selecting a Commercial Property Site

Drone technology helps brokers list and market the commercial properties they are outsourced to sale, which in turn, makes it easier and more convenient for proprietors to choose the site they want. It also makes it easier for the actual builders and architects to map out their blueprints. There is only so much of a property you can see and learn through demographic data and 2-D images on your computer; and high-resolution aerial drone imaging gives this added insight to all the unique and relevant elements of a property’s location, including how it sits in the surrounding market, the nearby infrastructure, the flow of people and traffic, and so much more.

Property Maintenance

Drones are being used more and more in the facility maintenance industry because they deliver an easier and more comprehensive way of inspecting a building and the surrounding premises. Roof inspections are safer and simpler, while all other exterior elements can be examined and managed accordingly, including siding, HVAC systems, pavements, and more. Smaller drones can be applied in the same way for interior property inspections and management. They are also applied for local site inspections for construction projects, reducing the needs to travel all over to make daily assessment rounds.

Operational Logistics

There are various roles, aside from inspection, site selection, and facility maintenance, in which drone technology can improve how we operate in the commercial world. Your company might have certain needs that can be met with the use of drones, such as vendor and delivery service, video marketing, staff audits, project monitoring, market research, and more.

A Fair Warning: The Federal Aviation Administration has set forth concerns, and now new regulations, that govern the commercial use of drones. In fact, since 2015, a pilot’s license is required to pilot a drone for commercial applications.

Are you ready to get your commercial build in motion? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 to learn how we can deliver organized and professional commercial space planning and preconstruction services that meet your business objectives. We serve Indianapolis, and all of Central Indiana.

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The Planning and Development Process of a Commercial Construction Project

Posted on January 21, 2021 by bafcorp20

There are countless specifications, details, phases, stages, and more in your everyday, average commercial construction project. But as for the basic outline of the designing and building process, you can expect 6 key steps. Continue reading to learn the six most fundamental milestones in the planning and development process of an average commercial construction job, and how to get started on your very first step as a proprietor yourself.

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The Commercial Construction Design Build System

Planning

When you first begin with the idea of a commercial construction project, whether a new build or renovation to an existing space, your first step is to plan out the initial elements, including hiring a trusted commercial general contractor, locating real estate for procurement or lease, and of course, setting a budget. In the commercial construction industry, the rule of thumb is to set a budget, and then add 10% to it to protect against unanticipated costs and budget increases. Your general contractor can help you procure real estate, negotiate leasing terms, implement proper budget analysis and foreseeability reviews, and much more. In fact, they can help you with the five remaining steps of the commercial construction design build process.

Designing

Your next stage in the commercial construction planning and development process is the design stage. During this stage, every building and design specification is planned out, confirmed, and put into motion, down to the very last detail. This includes all aesthetic designs, such as colors, materials, textures, and even furniture and upholsteries. At the completion of this stage, you should be equipped with full architectural drawings that detail all of the functions and layout of your commercial space.

Pre-Construction

The third stage in the commercial construction planning and development process is preconstruction. As one of the most vital stages in commercial design and build, preconstruction addresses and finalizes the appointed project team, including all architects, contractors, and subcontractors, as well as building permitting, building code specifications, insurance acquisition, and all other municipal and legal matters concerning commercial construction.

Ordering and Purchasing

The purchasing stage, also known in the commercial construction industry as procurement, is the phase of the process that involves acquisition of all necessary materials and supplies for construction, as well as locking in the price for labor, and completing all purchasing orders for the project, including building systems, appliances, furniture, and more, as detailed in the project specifications.

Construction Work

During this phase of the commercial construction process is when the actual building takes place. As a collective team, your hired architects, general contracting team, construction managers, subcontractors, and designers work together to make the vision come alive. All building work will be completed up to municipal and local codes, as well as all specified elements of the commercial construction plan.

Post Occupancy Work

the final stage of the commercial construction planning and development process include both the post occupancy follow-up and facility maintenance services. During this phase, all commercial construction work is inspected to ensure optimal function, efficiency, and that it meets all local and municipal building code requirements, and all remaining elements are addressed and completed. After white glove inspection, all of the remaining elements of facility maintenance can be arranged and coordinated with your commercial general contracting company. It is highly recommended to use your general contractor for facility maintenance service for many reasons.

Commercial Design Build Contractors in Indiana

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial construction services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractor teams deliver a streamlined process that meets all defined engineering and design specifications, procurement, schedules, and budgets. We serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Contact us to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

Why is Commercial Construction Engineering Important?

Posted on November 13, 2020 by bafcorp20

When it comes to commercial construction work, engineering is by far one of the most important elements. Without precision engineering, severe consequences are more likely to occur. From unanticipated losses and expenses, to the very worst scenario of someone getting seriously injured or killed, the possible consequences are nothing short of dire. Bottom line, acute and skilled engineering is a vital part of the preconstruction process. If you are proposing to build or remodel a commercial property, it is wise to incorporate precision engineering into your plan.

Continue reading to learn why, and how you can get started on a quick bid in Indianapolis.

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Engineering is a Key Element to Commercial Construction Success

Commercial construction engineering supports safety, efficiency, and overall profitability. When you choose commercial engineering services, you can expect a comprehensive approach that covers all specifications and factors of a project. Such factors generally include electrical system and HVAC design, power system surveys, energy assessments, plumbing strategy, drafting, and designs for other types of mechanical systems within your commercial property.

Drafting

All construction plans involve drawings, which are a central part of the commercial engineering methodology. Not only do drafts provide a reliable format for referencing, but they can also maintain structure and compliance among all project staff. Drafts help avoid costly or dangerous misunderstandings and mistakes.

Energy Assessments

Proper construction engineering will address a property’s existing or prospective energy system. They will ensure that the correct type of energy system design is matched to your commercial building or property. The proper energy system plan will promote higher efficiency, which saves you money and supports the environment.

Electrical System and HVAC Design

An addition to energy assessment services, a construction engineer will also address electrical system and HVAC system design. This includes assessing which type of system is right for the property, as well as, assessing the required power, amount and arrangement of lighting, and fixtures for the property.

Power System Surveys

The power of a commercial building or property is a serious thing. Power system assessments will help to identify, foresee, and prevent certain electrical and power system failures. A construction engineering team will utilize several different resources and strategies to accomplish a power system survey, including short circuit studies, arc flash and shock hazard evaluations, and protective device coordination analyzes.

Plumbing Strategy

Construction engineering also acutely addresses the plumbing strategy for a commercial property. Important factors like ventilation, air quality, water quality, sewage, and more, are all analyzed and managed during the engineering preconstruction process. A solid design for your commercial plumbing system will set your company up for success.

Mechanical Systems

Other mechanical systems, such as natural gas or compressed air systems, must also be acutely addressed and planned out in the construction process. A qualified engineering team will be able to pinpoint a property’s exact mechanical needs, and even deliver post-construction facility maintenance for such systems.

Commercial Preconstruction and Design Build Services in Indianapolis

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted design build and commercial preconstruction services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our commercial general contractors methodically strategize and define your project’s zoning, budgeting, scheduling, engineering, construction, and post-occupancy. In turn, we organize and expedite the construction delivery timeline and guarantee quality results. We serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

What Utility Mapping Can Do for Your Commercial Construction Project

Posted on October 27, 2020 by bafcorp20

The application of utility mapping is often one of the most critical elements of a commercial construction development. The purpose of utility mapping is to diagram and chart of the infrastructure below the ground. Why is this important to the overall building plan? Because what lies underground can have a massive influence on what can be built above it. Furthermore, such charting applications can give insight on various other aspects of a commercial construction project.

Failure to properly map out your construction site’s underground infrastructure can have grave and lasting consequences, all of which can be added up on real dollars. Not only can missing or misidentifying structures underground lead to unanticipated costs and schedule delays, it can also pose serious safety risks.

To avoid costly delays, unexpected budget increases, unanticipated obstacles, and accidents, be sure to talk to your Indianapolis commercial general contractor about this vital phase of your upcoming build. In the meantime, scroll below to learn some of the key benefits to utility mapping preconstruction services, and how to request a trusted bid from a commercial general contractor in Indianapolis.

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The Importance of Proper Underground Mapping

You have heard the old saying, “there’s more than what meets the eye.” When it comes to an undeveloped commercial site, the same epitaph applies. Below the ground, there could be an extensive system of electrical wires, telecom cables, plumbing pipes, gas mains, water mains, sewers, and much more. All of these structures and systems would play a massive role in space planning, and design build construction.

Although there are likely blueprints that specify what is underneath a commercial site, you cannot always rely on them to be comprehensive or up-to-date. In cases of older properties, the blueprints are usually lost, scattered, or nonexistent. Worst of all, there is really no other sure-fire way of confirming what is in the ground below without modern-day utility mapping technology.

Benefits of Utility Mapping Technology

🔎 IT SPOTS DANGEROUS CONDITIONS. Construction work is already a dangerous field, posing several safety risks and structural hazards on workers and the surrounding public. When it comes to excavating construction sites, as the old saying goes, “what you do not know can kill you.” Utility mapping sets a foundation to move forward safety with construction planning and work.

🔎 IT PREVENTS SCHEDULE SET-BACKS. Hitting any underground infrastructure while excavating a commercial site is a very bad situation. If it does not cause anyone harm, nor impose additional costs, you can still count on it setting back your schedule. Time is money when it comes to commercial construction, so avoiding this dilemma is one key toward the path of success.

🔎 IT SAFEGUARDS THE BUDGET. Running into underground structures and systems without knowing about them first will most certainly set back the work timeline, which will cost you money. But dealing with the underground infrastructure you stumble upon will also cost you money. Labor, materials, resources, and more planning would all add to the overall budget you had set from the beginning.

Your Leaders in Commercial Preconstruction Services in Indianapolis, Indiana

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial preconstruction services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.