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New Construction Vs. Renovation: A Guide

Oct 13, 2021
Construction Project

New Construction Vs. Renovation: A Guide

 

When business and property owners choose to expand their physical presence, they often turn to commercial construction contractors to get the job done right. Together, both parties can work together to decide whether new construction or renovation is the best, most cost-efficient option.


Why Choose Renovation?

 

Whether renovating a currently occupied commercial building or buying one with the plans to renovate, this is generally the most cost-effective option for business owners to pursue. Between inflation, rising construction material costs and growing talent gaps, it’s now more expensive than ever to build new construction properties.

 

Renovations are also much quicker and the process is much shorter than building new construction properties. This can come in handy when businesses are on a tight deadline or can’t afford the downtime or relocation that happens with a new build. Change orders and cost overruns are much more common during these projects too when compared to renovations.

 

For business, property, or franchise operators and owners that would like to create a space that’s customized, it’s a mistake to think that new construction is the only option. Renovations allow owners to personalize and customize cookie cutter buildings that they want to improve to better meet their needs.

Building From the Ground Up

 

It’s also true that new construction allows for full personalization, and that in and of itself is perhaps the biggest advantage of choosing new construction over renovation. Distinctive design, cutting-edge layouts, specialized rooms and wings of a commercial building -- new construction allows for full control in the creation of these spaces.

 

When choosing between financing the cost of renovations versus the cost of new construction, the latter will almost always be easier to secure. There are significantly more lenders that will offer business owners loans to build a free-standing commercial building than they will offer to those who want to renovate. Additionally, any lender will include a margin in the total loan amount to protect against unexpected cost overruns.

 

Property owners may also find that existing spaces cannot be renovated, either due to structural challenges, permitting restrictions, or even historical building regulations. In this case there’s no other option but to find a new location and build a commercial property from the foundation to the roofline. Organizations that support sustainability initiatives and want to get LEED certification may want to consider choosing new construction or renovation.


Choose the Right Contractor

 

Don’t start your contractor search without first creating a solid plan. Ask (and answer) these questions: Will you be remodeling or building from the ground up? What’s your budget? What kind of timeline are you envisioning? Take a deep dive into the financial analysis of the project you’re planning; these numbers will come up frequently throughout the entire process.

 

Once you’re clear on a plan and a budget, get quotes and remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Check portfolios and references, and be clear upfront with your expectations. Once you’ve chosen a contractor, they will be able to answer any additional questions you may have about the construction project. Property owners will also need to decide whether the building can continue operating as usual or will need to shut down temporarily. Some businesses may even need to temporarily relocate to minimize disruption.


The best way to get the most out of your commercial construction project is by working with a commercial construction contractor who has experience. A contractor who offers design-build services can identify issues before they create cost or scheduling overruns. From the ground up, any commercial construction project starts with a team that can read blueprints, tackle permitting, comply with local building codes and zoning ordinances, along with managing labor and cleaning up when the work is done. Communication needs to be prioritized along the way as well.

Choose Contractors Wisely

 

Wright Building Systems is a woman-owned (WBE certification pending) general contractor serving clients across the Greater St. Louis region. We specialize in commercial construction and high-end residential renovations. We are SCIF certified to be able to create and design secure portable, modular facilities (Sensitive Compartmented Special Access Program Facilities) with the latest technology to governmental department or agency’s exact specifications and uniform security requirements.

 

We are a proud, woman-owned company whose employees all share one thing: the passion to deliver quality and profitable projects on time and on budget. We are highly experienced in all aspects of a build: estimation, construction, project management, preconstruction services, and construction and can bring any project from idea to completion at a fair price and a reasonable timeframe.

 

For a job done right, call Wright Building Systems!

Tips for Office Renovations

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How long has it been since you refreshed your office space? Choosing to rebuild entirely or renovate what you already have is a critical decision, and while rebuilding can yield excellent results, renovations may be more cost-effective and timely. We've helped business owners across the St. Louis region renovate their spaces and improve productivity. Let's discuss some tips that will help propel your office renovations and give your team the space they deserve. Assessing Your Needs and Setting Goals Before diving into the renovation process, it is essential to step back and evaluate your current workspace. Identify pain points, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement. Are there bottlenecks in workflow? Is the layout conducive to collaboration and productivity? By pinpointing these issues, you can establish clear renovation objectives and desired outcomes. Business owners should consider budget constraints and timelines to ensure the team has realistic expectations from the outset. Envisioning Your Ideal Workspace With goals in mind, it's time to unleash your creativity and envision the future of your workspace. Draw inspiration from various sources such as design magazines, websites, and competitor spaces. Engage with your employees to understand their preferences and needs. What elements would enhance their work experience? Creating a mood board or vision board can crystallize your ideas and visualize the desired aesthetic and functionality. Finding the Right Contractor Choosing the right contractor is a pivotal step in the renovation process—research and vet potential candidates with experience in commercial office renovations. Ask for referrals and view past projects to assess quality and reliability. Obtain multiple quotes and compare services, timelines, and pricing to make an informed decision. Remember, communication is key—select a contractor who listens to your vision and collaborates effectively. Collaborating with Your Contractor Once you've chosen a contractor, establish open lines of communication and set clear expectations. Communicate your vision, goals, and budget constraints. Collaborate on establishing a timeline and project milestones to track progress effectively. Throughout the renovation, maintain regular communication to promptly address any concerns or changes. A collaborative partnership between you and your contractor is essential for a successful outcome.

Commercial Roofing Project Tips

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Historic Building Preservation: Do's and Don'ts

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As stewards of our architectural heritage, commercial construction companies specializing in historic building preservation play a vital role in ensuring that these treasures of the past continue to enrich our communities for generations to come. However, navigating the complexities of historic preservation requires a delicate balance between honoring the past and meeting the present needs. Here are five essential "Do's" and "Don'ts" for historic building projects to guide you on this journey.  The Do's Research and Understand the Building's History Every historic building has a story to tell, and understanding its history is paramount to successful preservation. Before embarking on any project, take the time to research the building's architectural style, original materials, and historical significance. By uncovering the building's past, you gain invaluable insights that will inform your preservation efforts and ensure that your work respects its unique heritage. Engage with Preservation Experts Historic preservation is a multidisciplinary endeavor that requires expertise in architecture, history, conservation, and construction. Collaborate with preservation architects, historians, and consultants specializing in historic buildings. Their knowledge and experience will help you navigate preservation regulations, address technical challenges, and make informed decisions that balance preservation goals with modern requirements. Document and Preserve Original Features Historic buildings are repositories of craftsmanship and architectural detail, each element bearing witness to the past. When undertaking a preservation project, prioritize documenting and preserving original features and materials. Whether it's intricate woodwork, ornate plaster moldings, or handcrafted masonry, these historic elements contribute to the building's character, and the team should conserve them whenever possible. Adapt with Sensitivity While historic buildings provide a link to the past, they must also meet the needs of contemporary users. When making updates or additions to a historic structure, approach the design process with sensitivity and respect for the original fabric. Seek inspiration from the building's historic character and use materials, colors, and techniques harmonizing with its architectural style. By blending the old with the new, you can create spaces that honor the past while serving the needs of the present. Regular Maintenance and Monitoring Preservation is an ongoing process that requires proactive care and attention. Implement a regular maintenance schedule to monitor the condition of the building and address any issues before they escalate. Regular inspections, cleaning, and repair work can help prevent deterioration and prolong the lifespan of historic materials. Investing in proactive maintenance safeguards the building's integrity and demonstrates your commitment to its long-term preservation.
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