The Importance of Preconstruction for Your Building Project

Building a new project from the ground up can be an exciting time for any developer, but it can also be overwhelming. With so many factors to be considered, from obtaining the necessary permits to finding the right contractor to execute the project, it can feel easy to let something essential fall through the cracks.

So what are preconstruction services?

Preconstruction services help you lay the groundwork before you break ground. They ensure your construction project goes smoothly and according to plan, saving you time and money in the long run.

At Eshelman Construction, we use preconstruction services like conceptual estimating, project budgeting, and scheduling to help our clients put together a solid plan that sets their entire commercial building project up for success:

Conceptual Estimating

Conceptual estimating involves developing a rough estimate of the project's cost, scope, and timeline before any design or construction work begins. This early-stage estimate helps you evaluate the feasibility of your project, identify potential issues, and make informed decisions.

Conceptual estimating gives developers a comprehensive understanding of the project's expected costs, enabling them to make informed decisions about its scope and timeline. At Eshelman Construction, we help our clients get a realistic idea of how much their project will cost. Suppose you are working within a set, strict budget. In that case, we can use conceptual estimating to help you understand how much you can accomplish within your budget and develop strategies to execute your vision within your means.

Project Budgeting

Project budgeting, Another critical component of preconstruction, involves creating a detailed budget that includes all expected costs associated with the project. We consider materials, labor, equipment, permits, and any other expenses that may be incurred during the project.

Creating a comprehensive budget is essential to ensure that the project remains on track and on budget. A well-planned budget can also help avoid cost overruns and delays by identifying potential cost-saving opportunities early in the project. We prioritize transparency with our clients and ensure you know where every dollar of your budget is allotted.

Scheduling

Scheduling and budgeting go hand in hand. A detailed schedule should be put together before any construction work begins. The plan should include all critical milestones and deadlines, including when permits need to be obtained, when materials need to be ordered, and when construction work is expected to be completed. A well-planned schedule ensures that everyone involved has a clear understanding of the project's timeline and can work together to meet critical deadlines. We help manage all of these moving parts and third parties to help keep your project moving and meeting deadlines as planned.

Benefits of Preconstruction Services

Putting in the pre-work of conceptual estimating, project budgeting, and scheduling ultimately helps our projects run smoother, more efficiently, and with increased peace of mind. Here are our four favorite benefits of taking the time for preconstruction services:

Minimizes Risk

One of the most significant benefits of preconstruction services is that it minimizes the risk of unexpected costs, delays, and other issues that can derail a project. By formulating a comprehensive project plan early in the process, developers can identify potential problems and address them before construction work begins. This proactive approach can save you significant time and money in the long run by preventing costly mistakes.

Optimizes Project Planning

Preconstruction services can also help optimize project planning by providing you with a comprehensive understanding of the project's scope, costs, and timeline. This information enables developers to make informed decisions about the project's feasibility, scope, and timeline. It ensures that everyone involved in the project clearly understands what is expected of them from the beginning of the project.

Increases Efficiency

Preconstruction services can increase project efficiency. A well-planned project can help avoid delays and keep the project on track, ultimately saving time and money in the long run. Preconstruction services also help you identify potential cost-saving opportunities early in the project, reducing the overall cost. At Eshelman, we always look for opportunities to help you save on cost without cutting corners on quality or safety.

Enhances Communication

Preconstruction services can enhance communication between all parties involved in the project. By developing a comprehensive project plan early in the process, everyone involved clearly understands what is expected of them, reducing the likelihood of miscommunication or misunderstandings. It makes check-ins more streamlined and transparent.

In construction, preconstruction is akin to measuring twice and cutting once. We save time, resources, and headaches by creating a strategic plan before starting any building. This time is also an excellent opportunity for us to align with your project's goals and vision and grow a relationship that will carry us through to completion.

If you’re planning on building in Nashville, contact us today. We can help you organize your thoughts and develop a smart, actionable plan to accomplish all you want for your building within budget and on time.