How to choose a construction contractor in New York?

This issue is important not only for the Customer but in general, is significant for the successful implementation of the entire project, which is supported by the Contractor, Designer, suppliers, and many other participants. In most cases, the main criteria when choosing a Contractor are price and terms, but the quality and reputation of the company, behind which the reliability of the project implementation stands, is practically not taken into account. This approach often leads to numerous legal disputes, and ultimately to losses.

For the successful implementation of investment construction projects and the elimination of controversial situations, based on our practical experience in the construction market of the Republic of Belarus, we at Helix Group have developed an algorithm for choosing a Contractor from 5 key rules:

• Market analysis of construction companies;
• Formation of a portfolio of potential Contractors;
• A detailed study of companies from a portfolio of potential Contractors;
• Provision of design estimates and receipt of commercial proposals;
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Let's take a closer look at these rules.

Market analysis of construction companies

Market monitoring is to study its current state - the services provided and their quality, the number of construction companies and their capabilities, the legal regulation of construction by legislation. We also recommend consulting with experienced customer services (engineering companies) in order to get an expert opinion from them, which will help form a wider picture of the upcoming field of activity.

If you are at the pre-investment stage of the project and have not yet started the development of design estimates, we recommend that you consider the possibility of turnkey construction, which will reduce your risks and help to achieve more coordinated work and a better final result.

Foundation waterproofing: why is it very important when building a house

If you decide to build your own house, then you probably wondered this question. After all, if you can do without waterproofing, then you can save money on other tasks. But is it worth saving on your own comfort? And how can such savings turn out in the future? We have tried to answer all questions related to waterproofing contractors NY the foundation in the most accessible and detailed way. This article will help you avoid common mistakes during the initial construction phase.

Formation of a portfolio of potential Contractors

Further, when completing the market analysis, we recommend that you select applicants for the role of a Contractor for your project based on their technical capabilities, economic stability, and construction experience.

A detailed study of companies from a portfolio of potential Contractors

Now you need to get to know each company qualitatively - to study its cases, go to finished objects to inspect their quality, contact the former customers of the company to receive comments on cooperation with your potential Contractor and get acquainted with the economic viability (no arrest on the company's accounts, no legal cases as a defendant, tax arrears, etc.) and the technical competence of the company. A trustworthy company will provide its customers ' phones, contacting which it will be possible to find out their point of view about this company. The same applies to the history of the company, which must be transparent to you, of course, with the assistance of the Contractor himself.

What is foundation waterproofing?

Foundation waterproofing is a set of works aimed at isolating the concrete foundation of a house from water and moisture. Such work is carried out immediately after the construction of the foundation, before the construction of the walls.

The fact is that concrete, due to its porous microstructure, resembles a sponge. It absorbs moisture very quickly and easily from the atmosphere and soil. This is bad for 3 reasons.

• The microclimate in the basement deteriorates, mold and mildew (sometimes very dangerous species) appear, which can penetrate into living quarters.
• The strength of the foundation is broken. This affects the overall strength of the home and its durability.
• Without waterproofing, moisture from the foundation can penetrate into the house, which keeps the floors and the lower part of the walls always damp. This can also cause the development of fungus.

When is waterproofing necessary?

Waterproofing foundations are essential to ensure the safety and durability of homes. Especially if you plan to equip a living or utility room on the basement floor. It is imperative to take care of protecting the foundation from moisture, and as a result - the formation of mold and destruction.

Of course, each case should be considered in particular. Much depends on the grade of concrete and the additives in it. So some brands have special waterproofing additives that make foundation insulation work optional.

It is important to consider the climate in your area: whether it rains often or dry weather prevails. Rainwater, like melting snow, acting on the foundation year after year, can destroy it and lead to the formation of cracks in the walls.

Accumulating under the foundation and penetrating into the capillaries of building materials, water can rise up the walls to a height of about 10 meters while creating a pressure of up to 1.5 tons / 1m².