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Important components of the final design, such as fixtures, furniture, appliances, cabinets, and window treatments, are often left undetermined in traditional construction documents. This opens the door to unforeseen issues with size, compatibility, pricing, and even structural requirements, which often generate change orders that adversely affect the budget and construction schedule. We attempt to avoid these problems by detailing to the maximum extent possible the major and minor components that will be included in the final product. Suppliers and subcontractors typically provide their own materials takeoff, but we are able to generate our own internal structural and framing materials list, including concrete, steel, lumber pack, roofing, and other materials. We base our estimates on a technical evaluation of actual construction design and techniques, which helps us minimize problems with delivery, availability, and waste. Final finish materials, such as exterior veneers, stain/paint colors, and flooring, are often left unspecified until the last phases of construction. We have found that such a generic approach increases the chances for compromises, due to budget and schedule constraints, that affect overall client satisfaction. Our selection schedule process guides clients through their decision responsibilities, enables us to manage lead times with materials and creaftmen, and helps to avoid conflicts during the critical final stages of construction.  |
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