5 Jobsite Factors Contractors Evaluate

Whether you’re building new or updating an existing structure, your contractor will visit your jobsite first before doing any work. Even though they have a blueprint of your plan, there are specific factors at the jobsite a contractor must consider. 

Why evaluate the jobsite:

Site evaluation is critical to truly understanding the scope of the job and identifying possible challenges that may arise. After reviewing the building blueprint, visiting the jobsite helps to ensure the requirements and site details are accurate. A site visit allows for double checking dimensions, elevations, and details related to door openings and beam pockets as well as to identify safety issues and potential excavation challenges.

A quality contractor will visit your jobsite to evaluate five specific factors that can impact project success, budget and timeline.

5 Jobsite Factors Contractors Evaluate

  1. Space. The size of the area impacts the type of excavator and how well machinery will be able to maneuver around, as well as the extent of trees and brush to be cleared.
  2. Soil. Whether soil is cohesive or granular will impact the foundation in relation to structure, load and how it will be used. 
  3. Slope. The steepness of a slope will impact drainage around the foundation, equipment stability, and safety during excavation.
  4. Survey of area. The distance to wildlife, extent of people in close proximity and level of traffic nearby play a factor in the access and safety of the project.
  5. Safety. Operating large equipment requires safety awareness not only for oneself but others around the jobsite. Location, nearby hazards, and traffic flow are all considered.

Make sure your contractor not only reviews your plans but also does a site visit. These five factors can dramatically impact your design, budget, and timeline. At Kurk, we always visit a jobsite and thoroughly review the foundation plan, double check dimensions, elevations, underground utilities, and the five factors above.

Consider Kurk Inc. for your next excavation and concrete project.

5 Reasons for Concrete Construction

Different concrete structuresConcrete. We see it everywhere; at the park, on the street, in our homes, where we shop, where we worship, where we eat, and where we walk. According to ScienceDirect, concrete is the most consumed material in the world, second to water. It is so commonly used in construction we take it for granted. Have you ever wondered why we use concrete to construct our buildings, homes, shops and entertainment areas?

Reasons to construct with concrete

  1. Concrete is strong. A chemical reaction between cement and water gives concrete its strength. Cement is a powder made up of limestone, calcium, silicon, iron, and aluminum. When cement is mixed with water it forms a paste, like glue, binding together sand, gravel, and crushed stone. The paste hardens over time setting and adhering the pieces in place.
  2. Temperature tolerant. In the midwest where temperatures can range from below zero in winter to over 100 degrees in summer, concrete will retain its form and strength. To properly prepare concrete for those extreme temperatures and prevent spalling, scaring or pits, it is important to pour concrete with the right amount of water, at the right environmental temperature, and allow for the right amount of time for it to cure.
  3. Easy to maintain. Sealing concrete extends the life of it, makes it resistant to stains, and retains its visual appeal. In addition to sealing, we recommend keeping your concrete clean and dry, using a ehumidifier in enclosed places, and making sure the drainage system is working properly.
  4. Cost effective. Only a few key materials are used for making concrete. Materials that are relatively plentiful in supply and easy to acquire, making the cost to produce it reasonable. The fact concrete can last almost forever makes the investment well worth it.
  5. Aesthetically pleasing. Accurately leveled surfaces and fine-tuned finishing work provide that smooth, glossy finish look we all love to see. It is versatile in that you can create different designs by cutting it into various shapes and sizes. Different finishes and sealants can be applied in varying colors creating unique designs.

Concrete is the go-to material for most construction projects. When you’re looking for a reliable partner to pour concrete for a commercial building foundation, home foundation, or flat surface, call Kurk. We are a partner that goes above and beyond to get the job done right.