How to manage a school construction project

Last updated 3 months ago

School construction disrupts the learning environment and like any other building project, it can be vulnerable to weather delays. Other factors such as spiraling building costs, quality issues, air and mold problems and building waste can all add to the stress of managing such a project.

Schools need to be constructed faster and better, using cost effective materials that are durable and safe. The typical school construction project involves an architectural or design phase – this is where various options are weighed up including conventional or portable construction methods and aesthetic issues. Wall height, window locations, door locations, classroom sizes, ablutions, floor plans, fixtures and finishings, accents and textures are all decided here. The bid phase is where the school construction project goes out to bid to general construction companies. The winning company will need to work with the architect and the general contractor to decide on the best method of construction based on cost, speed and building quality.

The site construction phase is where the foundations and utilities are handled, with buildings shipped to site and set in place. Temporary weather insulation is constructed so that the interior work can continue regardless of weather conditions. Climate control, fixtures and fittings and architectural finishes are applied in this phase of the school construction project.

Any school construction project needs to take the following into account:

Speed – The project needs to be finished in the shortest amount of time, with minimal disruptions to the site and to existing school operations.
Flexibility – The design phase needs to be flexible enough to incorporate the architect’s vision with the realities of construction. Mass customization is essential, not mass production.
Cost efficient – The school construction project should include buildings that are cost effective to produce but which are durable so as to reduce maintenance costs in the future.
Energy efficient – Climate control should be as environmentally friendly as possible, reducing the school’s carbon footprint and lowering operating costs. Precast concrete is a great option for those looking for energy efficient building materials.
Quiet – The buildings should be insulated so that they are quiet for a suitable learning environment.
Secure – The buildings in the school construction project should meet fire, mold, mildew and termite safety standards.

School construction projects need not be overwhelming – use the basic checklist above to ensure that all of the necessary items have been included.

Contact Fibrebond for details on using Pre-cast Concrete Construction for your next School Construction Project