December 2021
7 Construction Projects Perfect for Winter
There are many advantages to scheduling your construction project now, as we enter the winter season. General contractors and subcontractors generally are less busy during winter months, improving their availability. To you, that may mean a shorter project timeline and possibly a better bid.
Cold weather does limit some of the work that can be done during this season, but read on for 7 projects perfect to begin (or complete!) this winter.
1. Preconstruction planning
Getting started on up-front planning now will give your project a head start when you break ground in spring. An experienced general contractor can help you with everything from site selection to zoning to constructability analysis. Investing in preconstruction planning now sets the stage for project success.
2. Design work
Completing your project design and getting the architect, contractor and other entities together now will allow your team to discuss recommendations and address issues in advance. Ideally, you will select a design-build project delivery model, where these entities work together under one contract for unified workflow. This single-source responsibility simplifies the process for the owner from initial concept through finished project.
3. Phased construction
If you are planning a ground-up project for 2022, you can realize benefits by starting your project timeline now. Oftentimes contractors can get started on site preparation, including demolition and tree removal, so you are ready to get started as soon as the ground thaws. Additionally, locking in subcontractors and ordering materials now for work to be completed in spring will help you avoid delays later.
4. Maintenance and repair projects
If you’ve been putting off maintenance and repair of your existing structure, winter can be an ideal time to tackle these projects. It can also bee a good time to explore improving the overall energy efficiency of your facility with new insulation or an HVAC tune-up. Most of these maintenance and repair projects can be completed quickly with little to no disruption to your daily operations. Our Service Division specializes in these small projects!
5. Interior remodels
Obviously, projects within an existing exterior shell are ideal for cold weather construction. Particularly for retailers, the after-holiday slowdown provides a perfect opportunity to tackle the remodel you’ve been considering with minimized impact on your customers and staff. Your space will be refreshed and ready for the spring season!
6. Steel/Precast Structures and Additions
If you are considering a new steel structure or addition, cold weather shouldn’t stop you. While constructing masonry exteriors and concrete foundations can be tricky in frigid temperatures, steel and precast exteriors can be erected with very minimal impact from wintery conditions.
7. Projects that must be completed by spring
Some ground-up projects just can’t wait for a spring start. Advancements in equipment and careful planning can make even outdoor winter construction feasible. Contractors experienced in winter work have the right equipment and know how to take proper precautions to protect your project. They also will work weather trends into the schedule. A good project manager will work with you to design the process around how and when your structure will must be built.
We at Peter Schwabe, Inc. have been managing projects throughout Wisconsin winters for decades. We welcome your cold-weather projects this winter! Please contact Michael Gilbert, Director of Business Development, at mgilbert@pschwabe.com or 262-317-6678, for information on how we can assist with your winter construction projects, big or small.
Project Profile: McDonald's - Oskalooska, IA
Peter Schwabe, Inc. was retained to build this new McDonald's in Oskalooska, IA. The project included demolition of the existing restaurant, which had been standing since the 1970s. The new 4200 square foot restaurant features many state-of-the-art ordering, pick-up and preparation technologies.
Peter Schwabe, Inc. is proud to have partnered with McDonald's Corp. on construction needs spanning many decades, states and projects.
MORE PHOTOS
We're Growing, Hiring and Promoting!
We are excited to announce several promotions and new employees at Peter Schwabe, Inc.!
Eric Culp has been promoted to Superintendent of Field Operations. Eric has been part of the Peter Schwabe, Inc. team for more than 12 years and has nearly 30 years of experience in the construction industry. In his new role, Eric will oversee the work and scheduling of all our superintendents. In addition to his role at Peter Schwabe, Inc., Eric serves as lieutenant for the Elkhorn Area Fire Department.
Kadi Nowak has been promoted to Accounting Manager and will oversee the accounting and human resources functions, and assist with Service Department coordination. Kadi has been with Peter Schwabe, Inc. for four years and has more than 15 years of professional experience.
Deb Means Mauritz has been promoted to Business Services Manager. She will oversee contractual and administrative processes and manage project administration staff. Deb has been with the firm for four years and has more than 15 years of professional experience.
In addition, we are pleased to welcome these new employees to our team: Dave Kleinke, Service Technician; Gregory Stiver, Superintendent; and Karen Bauer, Estimating Coordinator. Please join us in extending a warm welcome to them!
We're not done yet... we're also seeking to add a Project Bookkeeper to manage the accounting on construction projects. If you know of a candidate who might be a good fit, please share the job description with them. Make sure they share your name with us so we can give their resume extra attention.
From your friends at Peter Schwabe, Inc., wishing you a Christmas filled with blessings and a New Year packed with possibility!