Best building and construction company in Kenya
Building Construction.
Building construction is a process that requires careful planning, skilled labor, and adherence to various regulations. Each construction step must be executed efficiently to ensure the building is safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing.
Building construction involves the process of constructing a building, starting from planning and design to the actual construction and finishing stages.
Types of Construction
- Residential construction.
This type of construction is majorly concerned with building, renovating, or expanding new homes or spaces with a maximum height of four floors, intended to be occupied for residential use.
- Commercial construction.
This type of construction involves the construction of buildings and other structures used for commercial purposes. It includes the construction of office buildings, retail stores, warehouses, and factories.
- Industrial construction.
This construction type deals with factories, power plants, warehouses, and other highly specialized facilities. It also includes the design, installation, and maintenance of mechanical and structural components of these industrial-based facilities.
- infrastructure construction.
This construction type is based on the designing, planning, and building of physical structures and facilities that are necessary for the functioning of a society, economy, or industry such as public roads and social amenities.
The most efficient construction steps
- Planning and Design
Selection of Construction Site: This entails choosing an appropriate location for the building based on factors like zoning laws, soil type, accessibility, and environmental impact.
Architectural Design: This involves the creation of blueprints and detailed designs of the building, including floor plans, elevations, and sections.
Structural Design: Ensuring the building’s structural integrity by designing the framework that supports the building’s loads.
Permits and Approvals: Obtaining necessary permits from local authorities and ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations.
- Pre-Construction
Preparation of the site: Clearing the land, leveling the ground, and setting up temporary facilities such as site offices and storage areas.
Foundation Work: Excavating the site and laying the building’s foundation, which can be shallow (spread footings, mat foundation) or deep (pile foundation, drilled shafts).
- Construction
Superstructure Construction
Building the main structure of the building, including columns, beams, floors, and roofs.
Framing
Constructing the skeleton of the building, typically using steel, wood, or concrete.
Masonry Work
Building walls with materials such as bricks, concrete blocks, or stone.
- Installation of Systems:
Installing essential systems like plumbing, electrical, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), and fire protection.
Enclosure
Adding external elements such as windows, doors, and cladding to protect the interior from weather.
5. Finishing Work
Interior Finishes:
Completing the interior with drywall, painting, flooring, and cabinetry.
Exterior Finishes:
Applying external finishes like siding, stucco, or brick veneer.
Landscaping:
Designing and implementing outdoor spaces including gardens, pathways, and driveways.
6. Post-Construction
Inspection and Testing:
Conducting final inspections and tests to ensure the building meets all safety and quality standards.
Maintenance:
Planning for regular maintenance to ensure the building remains safe and functional.
Main Considerations During Construction
Sustainability: Incorporating green building practices to minimize environmental impact, such as using energy-efficient materials and systems.
Safety of both workers, equipment used, and future occupants: Ensuring the construction site follows safety protocols to protect workers, equipment, and future occupants is a key area to be considered in the construction process.
Budget and Schedule Management: Keeping the project within budget and on schedule through effective project management to enhance quality building outcomes.
Safety construction measures
- Always wear PPE such as goggles, helmet, gloves, and boots
- Be mindful and follow signs
- Provide clear instructions
- Keep the construction site tidy
- Organize and store tools properly
- Use the right equipment for each task
- Prepare an emergency response plan
- Inspect tools and equipment regularly
- Set up safeguards such as barriers and fences
- Report issues immediately