Buildability Analysis
Buildability in construction is a process that reviews the design from the perspective of the builder and subcontractors before construction commences.
The process works most effectively when experienced construction knowledge is used to review the design with a view to achieving the intent of the design in a cost effective and timely manner.
Advances in CAD and BIM are immensely helpful in visualising many aspects of buildability but do not remove the need for engaging practitioners who have hard-won experience and awareness of on-site practicalities and potential pitfalls.
Buildability involves careful consideration of:-
- The sequence of activities on and off site
- Prefabrication opportunities
- Packaging of the works and allocation of scope in relation to trade and specialist contracts
- Ease and order of interface connections and abutments
- Setting out and space allowances
- Use of alternative plant and equipment
- Practicality, flexibility and required tolerances
- Standardisation of components and processes
- Reduction in complexity to reduce learning curves
- Identification of appropriate suppliers
- Installation and maintenance access arrangements including long-term replacement
- Health and safety
- Temporary works such as propping, facade retention, retaining facilities and trench support, crane supports, formwork, falsework and scaffolding including gantries
- Susceptibility to damage and protective procedures in-transit and in-situ
- Weight and lifting requirements
- Transport limitations and route planning
- Unloading operations
- Spare parts
- Storage and waste management
Sterlings have been involved in project management on buildings for over 35 years and consider the buildability aspects and logistics during the design development process. Owners are hesitant to engage a contractor early in the design process as there is a reduced opportunity for a competitive tendering process, so Sterlings can assist as a consultant and provide advice on practical and economic logistical solutions and assist in the tendering process.
