What are the phases of building construction? They are the sequential stages from designing to the finishing of a construction project. The construction process is not just a walk in the park as many people would think, but it requires proper planning, skills and the right knowledge to come up with a near-perfect building — if not entirely perfect. Therefore, the following phases are crucial for any construction project to become a success, according to DataStreet. Here are the phases:
Phases of Building Construction
The Site Work
Site work entails the actual commencement of the construction project where any existing structure is cleared to pave way for the upcoming structure or building. Initially, the soil at the site is excavated in order to facilitate installation of the foundation with which the building will sit on along with the underground utility services such drainage among others.
The Foundations
Once the site has been cleared and the soil excavated to the required depths, it creates room for the formation of foundations. At the same time, the reinforcement steel is strategically placed in position and then followed by concrete to come up with the foundations.
The Superstructure
The superstructure phase involves erecting steel columns beams on the foundations to create the structural “skeleton” that will support the entire building. Additionally, the concrete floors are prepared in preparation for the next stage.
The Facade
When one section of the superstructure gets completed, the facade components of the building are added to create what is known as the “envelope” of the structure itself. These might include glass and finished materials. At this stage, sets of equipment for operating the building are fixed in their respective positions where there still are some exterior large openings to fit them if need be.
The Construction of the Interior
After the completion of the facade, the interior comes next in line. Fitting out the interior starts with the construction of the interior walls as well as ceiling framework. During the interior construction phase, mechanical piping, electrical wiring and duct work take place at this phase before applying finishing materials.
Commissioning
Commissioning comes in handy to check the functional ability of the equipment systems necessary to run the entire building. It involves rigorous testing procedures prior to the occupation of the finished building. This process is always pre-planned at the design phase, but the actual testing starts as soon as the equipment installation is done and the process continues throughout the initial stages when the building starts operating. Essentially, commissioning is carried out to mark the final step where the confirmation of all systems and designs are carried out to ensure that everything is perfect.
Final stage: Improvements, Grading and Landscaping
At the time when the building is completed or at its final phase of completion, the site around it is normally given the final grade, drives, topcoats, pedestrian walkways, site furniture, landscaping and lighting. All these features are put in place in readiness for the occupation of the building.
Conclusion
Without proper planning and budgeting, a construction project cannot run smoothly or completed in time. That is the main reason phases of building construction are laid down to act as a guiding principle for any construction project to be successful and completed within the set budget.
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