Why do Design/Build Contractors Choose Tilt-up Construction?
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But what are the advantages?
- Savings in Construction Costs - Tiltwall
provides numerous construction cost savings. This method of construction
uses locally available materials rather than ones that must be
manufactured and shipped in. This means that raw material costs
are lower, available when needed and less prone to price fluctuations.
Tilt-up work crews are typically smaller than the crews used in
traditional construction and are normally comprised of local labor.
That translates to reduced labor costs. Because of the economies
of scale, the larger the footprint for the building, the more
these savings improve the project's total cost.
- Fast Construction Schedule - Tiltwall
offers several opportunities to "compress" the schedule
and deliver the building very quickly. Erecting the walls with
tilt-up panels is faster than building walls using traditional
construction techniques. The trades can begin work earlier in
the process on a tilt-up project, which allows greater overlapping
of project phases. Because the building is made of ready-mix concrete
from local sources, the project is less likely to be affected
by transportation delays as well. All these factors provide for
a faster, more predictable schedule with fewer opportunities for
delays and associated cost overruns.
- Safety - Tilt-up is a proven, safe method
of construction. The vast majority of the project takes place
on the ground rather than on scaffolding, reducing many of these
risks normally faced by workers.
- Aesthetics - Tiltwall buildings are not prefabricated. Each one is custom-designed for the client's needs and preferences. A full range of building finishes, wall textures and adornments, colors, even curved walls, are available with this method. Tilt-up provides architects and designers with virtually unlimited flexibility in crafting a building that is functional, durable and aesthetically pleasing.
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The benefits of a project built with tiltwall construction continue long after it is completed:
- Durability - Tilt-up buildings are extremely
durable. Many structures created in the 1940s are still in operation
today, with little apparent wear. A testament to the strength
of tilt-up construction, general contractors in earthquake-prone
California now use this method for 90% of their one-story industrial
building projects.
- Fire Safety - The concrete used in tilt-up
panels meets the fire-resistance standards of even the most demanding
building codes. For example, a 6.5" concrete wall offers
a fire resistance rating of four hours or more. Tilt-up panels
are also frequently used in the building's interior as fire walls.
Tiltwall buildings offer real protection and safety for their
tenants' employees, property and ongoing operations.
- Ease of Maintenance - Tiltwall buildings
require little in the way of ongoing maintenance, outside of periodic
cleaning and repainting as desired. Concrete is impervious to
insect or rodent infestation, so this problem becomes a relative
non-issue as well.
- Repairs and Expandability - In the event
a wall is damaged by a forklift or truck, damages are typically
more localized on a panel than in other types of structures, like
steel buildings. Also, the modular design of the panels allows
for easier repairs and expansion of the building.
- Security - Facilities that require positive
security and management of the interior environment - prisons,
classified manufacturing facilities, businesses with clean rooms
- will appreciate the strength and control afforded by concrete
and tilt-up buildings.
- Reduced Insurance Premiums - Because tiltwall
buildings have superior fire resistance ratings and have been
proven to withstand severe weather and earthquakes, these buildings
typically enjoy better insurance rates than steel buildings or
other types of structures.
- Reduced Operating Costs - Concrete provides excellent insulation, reducing the ongoing heating and cooling costs for the tenant. This insulation extends to sound as well as temperature. Workers in a tiltwall office building located in a noisy area will be less affected by the environment. By the same token, a manufacturing business that generates noise will have less effect on its neighbors and will find it easier to comply with local noise ordinances.
With a better understanding of these benefits, it's easy to see why many design / build contractors, construction managers and savvy building owners are opting for tilt-up over steel buildings or traditional construction. Delivering value, speed and responsiveness, quality, durability, reduced construction costs, and ongoing cost savings in operating expenses, tiltwall construction is the best choice for a wide range of commercial construction projects.
Next: Tilt-up and Bob Moore Construction
 | Bob Moore Construction, Inc. 1110 North Watson Road Arlington, Texas 76011 (817) 640-1200 • Fax: (817) 640-1250 www.General Contractor .com |
