The Key Differences Between Design-Build and Traditional Construction
When preparing for a construction project, you may have the choice between design-build vs. traditional processes. Each type of project has its pros and cons to consider before teaming up with a renovation contractor in Lancaster, PA. Learn more about when to select one over the other.
What Is a Traditional Construction Project?
A traditional construction project involves separate design and construction phases. You’ll meet with a designer who works with you on the blueprint and further details of the project. Once the design is complete, the project goes out for bids to contractors who will do the construction work.
Traditional construction is better suited for projects with longer timelines since you’ll have more leeway for back-and-forth discussions with the designer.
What Is a Design-Build Construction Project?
A design-build project involves a dedicated designer and builder and their respective crews, with multiple construction experts working together under one contract.
The project starts when the property owner reaches out to the design-build company to request a bid. The team meets with the property owner to determine the scope and goals of the project.
The team then creates a detailed overview for the project, including design elements, materials, cost estimates, and construction plans. They may develop a 3D model of the project.
The property owner and design-build team continue to meet and fine-tune the project’s scope. Once both sides agree on the final parameters of the work and sign the appropriate contracts, the project begins. The design-build team’s designers and contractors work together to source materials for the work, obtain permits, and set up crews to begin working.
What Are the Differences Between Design-Build vs. Traditional Projects?
A few important differences exist between these project types.
Collaboration Between Team Members
Design-build teams contain both designers and contractors, which makes it easier for all team members to collaborate. The entire team makes decisions that keep the project moving forward smoothly.
Meanwhile, traditional construction projects have separate teams. This means the designer and the contractor don’t work together, as the designer's work occurs first, and the contractor picks up after the designer is finished.
Control Over the Project’s Progress
In a design-build project, the owner collaborates with the team at the project's outset. The team then takes over the project and implements the owner’s ideas.
In traditional construction, the owner will have more input at each stage.
Setting Up the Contracts for the Project
When developing and signing contracts for a design-build project, all the work occurs at the beginning of the project.
In a traditional construction project, separate contracts are required for each segment of the design.
Managing the Timeline for the Project
Traditional construction projects usually take longer than design-build projects. The separate teams and segments involved in the traditional construction project will lengthen the timeline for completion. In the design-build project, having a single team that combines the roles of designer and contractor should expedite the project's progress and minimize delays.
Trust Vatter Construction for Any Kind of Design-Build Construction Project You Have in Mind
At Vatter Construction, we are the local design-build construction company you can trust. We can explain the design-build advantages and disadvantages, helping you decide whether this construction method is right for you. Our team focuses on creating spaces that will change your life for the better.
When you need a design-build construction contractor, your first call should be to our team at Vatter Construction. Call us today at (717) 883-5809 to discuss your plans and whether design-build vs. traditional projects are the better choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about which kind of construction project will best suit your needs, our team of experts is happy to answer them.
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Payment structures and deadlines can significantly differ among construction options. Design-build projects usually employ monthly payments linked to specific milestones, while traditional projects often require lump-sum payments.
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Yes, you need permits for design-build and traditional construction projects. Construction management experts handle the permitting process for their customers in both cases.
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When comparing design-build to speculative construction, the main difference has to do with the client. In a design-build scenario, a client asks for a specific project. A spec project is not associated with any particular client.
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The best design-build projects are those that align with the property owner’s vision. Design-build construction reduces delays by creating seamless communication among teams, which may be more suitable for some than others.
