Ground-Up Construction

Ground-up construction projects begin when the project site has been prepared. The first stage of this type of construction is the installation of underground utilities including gas, electrical, cable, plumbing, and sewer lines. Portions of these utilities are left exposed to later be extended into the new structure. The footings and other components to support the weight of the structure are constructed. Gravel is spread within the specified dimensions and leveled so the concrete slab can be poured as most commercial structures require a slab foundation.

When the foundation has set the walls are erected made of concrete blocks, steel beams and other approved materials that fulfill the requirements of the design. The walls of each floor may be constructed one at a time or they may extend many floors as one piece, again depending on the engineering and architectural requirements. The steel foundation for each floor is also installed and the framing in of the roof begins.

Once the exterior walls are in place the project is then brought “under roof” which means that the entire process to date is covered by the supported roof structure. The openings for windows and doors may be covered in plastic to protect the materials. The work on the exterior will continue but most of the work at this point is concentrated on the interior.

The utilities are expanded inside the structure to include cable, satellite, telephone and