How Masonry Contractors Can Improve Your Project’s Constructability

Don’t wait until a project is underway to contact masonry contractors. Amsterdam Enterprises has decades of experience, and our portfolio includes countless successfully completed projects. Make sure to take advantage of our vast knowledge and expertise during the design and planning phase. You may be able to create a project that is safer, simpler, and possibly even cheaper to build.

We have seen the results when constructability is not prioritized and we can assist you with preventing construction nightmares.

What Are the Results of Neglect in Constructability

It is important to include a constructability plan during the design phase in order to prevent problems that can cost both time and money. For instance, there was a time when Amsterdam Enterprises was hired for a brick veneer project on a building which was too close to another structure. Construction became significantly more challenging as there was not enough space to erect scaffolding.

The only option, was to suspend more scaffold from the already suspended scaffolding. It was not a great solution as it would have slowed down construction and endangered the lives of our tradespeople.

After spending time and money completing a lengthy negotiation process, our crew was granted permission to use the nearby structure’s roof for support. The craftsmen completed the first 12’ of the façade underneath the suspended scaffold base.
Generally, it is a good idea to include masonry contractors in the design phase of a project, as situations like these are completely avoidable. We certainly take pride in our problem-solving ability but would prefer to consult with architects and engineers from the beginning to help develop the most effective and safest project plan.

Constructability Explained

As masonry and tuckpointing contractors we frequently encounter great work being put into project designs. We also know that having experts with relevant field experience in the room during the planning stages is essential. Constructability, also referred to as buildability, is a process of evaluating and improving building plans before project implementation. The evaluation process includes detailed analyses of the plans and searching for any potential problems that could cause delays or extra expenditure. Solutions are then found for these potential problems. Having your building plans evaluated for constructability, will ensure that your project will benefit as follows:

• Reduced expenses
• Simplification of the project
• The project becomes less time consuming
• Significantly improvements in safety

In addition, you can expect less requests for information (RFI) during the project operation.

The Various Aspects of Constructability

Each project is unique and comes with its own set of problems and obstacles. Architects and engineers always benefit from working with masonry contractors, as this increases the likelihood that their design will be successfully carried out.

Specific Construction

PlanA masonry restoration expert or masonry contractor can advise on the optimal construction method for any given project.
Building horizontally: This method involves adding floors one at a time. Moving horizontally over each floor, however, can slow down the process as masonry work requires lots of equipment.

Building vertically: The most effective technique is to work vertically on one side of the building before starting the next. However, this may have an impact on the installation sequencing of the weather resistant barrier (WRB). Building vertically may require the general contractor to coordinate and arrange the scope of work for the exterior skin tradesmen more closely. All in all, this is a better solution for enclosure and timetable control.

Each project differs and a variety of factors can affect which strategy works best. The most effective construction strategy can be developed with the aid of experienced masons.

The Importance of Construction Sequence

As you can guess, the specifics of the chosen construction plan are very important. The building process needs to have a good flow, which means that each trade must have its own place in the construction plan, including masonry contractors. A building that is properly constructible will have an order similar to the below:

• Framework
• Sheathing or Drywall
• Window installation
• WRB
• Insulation
• Façade or Panel – can consist of metal, brick, stone, slate, or other
• Caulking and Sealing process

It can be a challenge to ensure that masonry contractors come in to complete their work at the exact required time. Amsterdam Enterprises however, have ample experience through completion of numerous prestigious public and private projects. Our experience and expertise will guarantee that the masonry work, including tuckpointing, will be taken care of at the scheduled time, ensuring a seamless construction flow.

Access Equipment

The scaffolding requirements are key to ensure the constructability of a project. The type scaffolding required depends on the masonry repair work or new masonry work scheduled to be done for a project. Avoiding time wasted on moving scaffolding or installing new scaffolding will ensure that the project runs smoothly. Masonry contractors can assist in determining the exact scaffolding requirements for each project.

Standard Scaffolding. Standard scaffolding is not necessarily the best option for masonry work. While it does allow for easy access to the various levels of building taking place, it only supports a certain amount of weight. For a masonry project, conventional scaffolding needs to be wider and specifically built with adjustable foot planks. The traditional setup is trade-specific and does not support multi-trade access.
Mast-Climbing Scaffolding for Multi-trade purposes. This kind of access equipment can only reach one level at a time, making it perfect for landing and feeding items with a point load capacity of up to 4 000 lbs. Although it is safe and effective for vertical construction, it has limited use for horizontal (cork-screw sequencing) schedules.

We at Amsterdam Enterprises have our own vast supply of scaffolding, which has led to general contractors using us as their preferred scaffolding contractor for certain projects.

Successful Constructability Lies in the Details

It certainly helps to collaborate with masonry contractors when it comes to all the factors involving the construction of the building façade. When designing a project, value and safety are some of the most important aspects, which is exactly where masons can help in ensuring that all factors come together smoothly.