Every niche comes with it’s own acronyms, terms, and sayings…often making outsiders feel like they are learning a new language. Our team at Treasure Island Construction knows the value that clear communication brings to a construction project, which is why we have put together a list of common terms used in the commercial construction industry!
People are at the heart of every construction project; here are a few people you may interact with:
- General Contractor (GC): the main contractor who is responsible for the oversight of the project, including scheduling and managing subcontractors
- Subcontractor: generally hired by the GC; these are specialty trade workers such as electricians or concrete pourers
- Foreman: the lead supervisor in charge of the jobsite crew
- Project Manager: a representative who manages all parts of the construction process including timelines, budget and communications
But what about all that paperwork before, during, and after a project? Let’s shed some light on what some of these behind-the-scenes papers are:
- Bid: A construction bid is an estimate based on design and specifications
- Change Order: Change your mind? Change orders show construction plan revisions to specs or pricing
- Design-Build: when a main contractor bids to provide the design and construction services for the entire construction project.
- Design-Bid-Build: an architect designs the project and then the plans are bid out to contractors/construction companies for final selection.
- Field Work Order: typically given by the main contractor to the subcontractor, listing out items to execute that could affect the schedule or cost of the project
- Site Plan: 2D rendered drawings that show the entire site in detail, including building footprint, utilities, topography, etc.
- Purchase order (PO): a document that clarifies the purchase of products and services from external vendors and suppliers
- Punch List: a list documenting items that need additional attention or correction at the end of a construction project
Once the construction project is underway, you may start hearing some of these terms being used to define some of the finer details of the project:
- Acoustics: the room qualities that affect the way sound is transmitted, such as the materials used and size of the room
- Footings: the building’s foundation or support system that distributes the building’s load on the ground
- HVAC: heating, ventilation and air conditioning.
- Load Bearing: a critical structural element that supports the weight of structural elements above it.
- MEP: mechanical, electrical and plumbing
While these certainly aren’t ALL the terms you will hear, it makes for a great starting point to open and clear communication with your General Contractor. Ready to start your commercial construction project? Call Victor today!
