Last Updated on December 5, 2023 by Showrooms Online
The Design Build Construction Process
The design build process is mainstream now for home renovation and custom home projects.
The design build construction process keeps all the coordination and planning with a single company and a designated project manager. This will reduce conflicts and errors and save money. It also will result in a quality project that will be completed on time and with better cost control.
When it comes to major home retrofits, homeowners can find themselves overwhelmed by the number of decisions they need to make. From the design of the renovation to choosing the right contractor, it can be a challenging process. That’s where the design-build construction process comes in. It’s a streamlined approach that can make your home renovation project easier and more efficient. In this blog post, we’ll go through the step-by-step process of the design-build construction process for any major home retrofit.
Steps in the Design Build Process
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Planning
The first step in the design-build construction process is the initial consultation and planning phase. This is where the homeowner meets with the design-build team to discuss their project goals, budget, and timeline. The team will ask questions to gain a better understanding of the homeowner’s needs and desires, as well as their budget and timeline. They will also discuss the homeowner’s energy efficiency goals.
During this phase, the design-build team will conduct a site visit to evaluate the existing conditions of the home. They will assess the structural integrity of the home, the plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems, and any potential energy inefficiencies. Based on this assessment, the team will develop a preliminary scope of work and budget estimate for the project.
Step 2: Design and Engineering
The design and engineering phase is where the homeowner’s vision for their renovation is turned into a reality. The design-build team will work with the homeowner to develop a comprehensive design that incorporates their desired renovation and energy efficiency measures. This may include incorporating high-efficiency HVAC systems. Also will design air sealing, balanced ventilation (HRV), insulation upgrades, and energy-efficient windows.
The team will develop engineering drawings and specifications for the renovation. These drawings and specifications will ensure that the renovation meets the scope of work and all necessary building codes and regulations.
Based on the final design, a definitive estimate can be prepared. This estimate can be used as the basis for a contract that can be fixed price or a cost plus fee format.
A One-Stop Guide to Renovation Contracts from the Canadian Home Builders Association
The owner should plan a 20% contingency at this point. It does not mean that the money will be spent but it assures that you will not run out of money during the project as a result of issues or changes.
Step 3: Permitting and Approvals
Once the design and engineering drawings are complete, the design-build team can submit them to the necessary authorities for permitting and approvals. This may include local building departments, zoning boards, and other regulatory agencies.
The design-build team will manage the permitting process and ensure that all necessary approvals are obtained before construction begins. This is a mandatory step in the process as it ensures that the renovation has met all necessary building codes and regulations.
Step 4: Construction
The construction phase is where the actual renovation work takes place. The design-build team (project management team) will manage all aspects of the construction process, including coordinating with subcontractors, ordering materials, and overseeing the work of the trades.
During the construction phase, the design-build team will implement the energy efficiency measures that were identified in the design and engineering phase. This may include installing high-efficiency HVAC systems, upgrading insulation, and installing energy-efficient windows and lighting.
The design-build team will also work closely with the homeowner to ensure that the renovation meets their expectations. Regular communication and site visits are important during this phase to ensure that any issues are addressed quickly and efficiently.
Step 5: Post-Construction
Once the renovation is complete, the design-build team will conduct a final walk through with the homeowner to ensure that everything is to their satisfaction. They will also provide the homeowner with any necessary warranty information and maintenance instructions.
Consider an Energy Audit
The design-build team may also conduct an energy audit to ensure that the home is performing as expected in terms of energy efficiency. The audit can even be part of the certification process if this is part of the project plan. This audit can also help the homeowner identify any areas where further improvements can be made to increase energy efficiency and reduce energy costs.
The design-build construction process is a streamlined approach to major home retrofits that will make the process easier and more efficient for homeowners. This
Incorporating energy efficiency measures into a home renovation project is an important step towards creating a more sustainable future. Not only do these measures help to reduce energy costs and increase the value of a home, but they also reduce the carbon footprint of the home.
When choosing a design-build contractor for a major home retrofit, it’s important to select a company with experience in energy-efficient renovations. Look for a contractor that specializes in sustainable building practices and has a proven track record of success.
In conclusion, the design-build construction process is an effective approach for homeowners looking to complete a major home retrofit. By following the steps outlined in this article, homeowners can ensure that their renovation is completed on time and on budget.
Project Management and Communications a previous Showrooms Online blog post
