According to the Beck Group, design-build projects have a 33% faster delivery speed.
Design-build is a construction technique whereby the designer and contractor work on the same team. It is a form of single-source contracting, and the best part is that a building owner only needs to work with one entity — known as the design-builder.
Design-build is the opposite of the traditional form of construction where an owner might work with multiple entities, from architects to subcontractors and everything in between.
The Difference Between Design-Build and the Traditional Project Delivery
In the traditional system, an owner manages two separate contracts that run simultaneously: one with a designer and one with a contractor. Once design plans are completed by a designer or architect, the owner then typically solicits bids from contractors for the actual work.
The two entities usually have no ties to one another, and issues often arise because neither party bears full responsibility for the completeness of the design.
Traditional systems are marred with irregularities and failures and allow for excuses and blame among the parties involved.
The design-build system, by comparison, has one streamlined method of operation. In it, the project owner contracts one design-build entity, usually a company or agency, that includes contractors and designers. Because all team members work “under the same roof,” the design-build approach addresses delays and cost inefficiencies head-on.
The Application of Design-Build in Roofing
The design-build system is highly useful and efficient when it comes to roofing. In the commercial roofing industry, design-build companies offer one single point of contact from start to finish. With the designer and the contractor on the same team, solutions to roofing problems are addressed quickly and without conflict.
Design-build helps to anticipate possible change-orders from the outset of design discussions, and ultimately provide a more accurate idea of price for customers. This level of teamwork also equates to a faster turnaround on project completion.
Advantages of Hiring a Design-Build
If you’re looking to complete your roofing project efficiently and effectively, then finding a knowledgeable commercial roofing design-build team is essential.
The perks of design-build include the following:
1. Budget Management
Cutting costs is the dream of every business owner, however, not many know where to start.
Traditional systems are very costly due to the many processes involved. Working with two separate parties is expensive, and important items, like potential issues, can get lost in translation (which equates to an even higher spend).
With design-build, the designer and the contractor are (literally) on the same team. Communication is easier and the individuals in charge of designing the roofing systems are familiar with the actual installation processes because they work together regularly (often onsite).
Additionally, there is better budget control, since decisions are made beforehand and changes can be anticipated.
2. High Level of Accountability
A single company, the design-builder, is tasked with control of the project. Project management involves everything from the budgeting to the final product and price tag. When a single organization undertakes the project, there is better oversight and accountability.
If setbacks occur, that single entity can resolve them without being drawn into blame games and fingerpointing.
3. Better, Open Communication
One of the biggest contributors to the success of any project is communication. With open communication in place, it’s easier to accomplish tasks without failure. In construction, communication is essential.
A design-builder offers better communication internally and externally. The entity eliminates complications by maintaining constant communication with the client and all team members are in the loop with it comes to status updates.
With efficient communication in place, projects turnaround quickly and are less costly.
4. Quality Control
A commercial roofing company focused on design-build is comprised of numerous experts and technicians.
The system removes any ambiguity that may arise during design and construction, and with the engineer and designer being part of the same firm, focus shifts to the client’s best interests. Employees work as a team when taking on projects, leaving the chances of error next to zero.
The design-build team is tasked with delivering the end product as agreed upon when signing the contract. Thus, they have to strive to make sure there are no errors and that the project has been undertaken as agreed.
5. Faster Delivery
With all aspects of the roofing project undertaken through one point of contact, projects take shorter periods of time to construct. This streamlining of operations makes work easier and faster than in the traditional process.
The entire team can work simultaneously without delays. Bid time is reduced, and any potential problems are addressed seamlessly.
The Bottom Line
Due to its inherent flexibility, the design-build method suits many construction projects. It combines both construction and design on one team and is basically the equivalent of one-stop shopping.
Looking to hire a design-build company for your commercial roofing project? By doing so, you will certainly enjoy the many benefits that come along such a company. Save yourself money and time… and eliminate any headaches!
For all your commercial roofing needs, be sure to contact TEMA today.
