Whatever type of construction project you will soon be embarking on, it is fair to say that your budget will need to be very clear and well thought out, while also including some wiggle room. After all, there are many costly factors in construction that can be unpredictable, including foundation problems, workplace accidents and even natural disasters. But one time when you should always be able to count on predictable and fair prices is when buying construction materials. From your construction consultant, here is a guide to making sure you receive fair prices for construction materials:

• Get several quotes: If you were going to buy a new piece of furniture or appliance for your home, chances are you would at least check out a few different websites to see what your money can get you. Although shopping for affordable construction materials is not quite so easy, it is possible. Most material suppliers will be happy to give you a quote, so do not hesitate to contact at least three of them before making your decision.
• Buy efficient materials: When working within a tight budget, many people are compelled to skimp on the quality of their materials. Buying highly efficient and durable materials can certainly be more expensive upfront, but in the long run, it pays off in increased building value and longevity. Always remember that quality should never be sacrificed for short-term savings.
• Purchase from reputable sources: Buying materials from an anonymous or unaccredited source is almost always going to be cheaper, but it is seldom worth it in the long run. For one thing, these materials are not going to be backed with any kind of quality guarantee. Even worse, you could potentially be buying stolen goods, which could get you into legal trouble and will certainly stall construction. If a deal feels too good to be true, that is probably because there is a significant catch.
• Do your homework: As any construction consultant will tell you, the price of construction materials is always shifting, especially with the construction and real estate boom we are currently experiencing. What sounds like a good deal this month could be way overpriced the next month, and vice versa. Do some research before negotiation to make sure you can make a well-informed and confident decision.
• Trust a professional: Following all of the above steps is a great start, but when it comes down to the nitty gritty details of negotiation, it helps to have an experienced and effective professional on your side. That is why we recommend working with a construction consultant in to ensure you get the best deal possible.

If you need a trustworthy and experienced construction consultant in to help you make the most out of your construction materials purchases, we hope you will get in touch with KSD Group Inc. We look forward to hearing from you, and to helping make your vision a reality.

Anyone who has ever worked in construction has some understanding of building codes and their importance, and if you have ever heard the dreaded phrase “this isn’t up to code,” then you know how frustrating and difficult dealing with codes can be. However, as long as you understand how the code works, take the time to read it for yourself, and have an experienced and trustworthy advisor by your side, you should be able to navigate this sometimes difficult topic.
From your construction management company in California, here is an overview of some key aspects of the California Building Code.
Recent change
The most recent change to California building standards occurred in 2014, when the 2013 California Building Standards Code (Title 24) went into effect. The code covers different regulations and requirements for residential, commercial and historical buildings, including both existing buildings and new construction.
Because this change is relatively recent, it is important for anybody involved in a construction project in California to be well versed in these changes. Fortunately, the code is available in two convenient, readable volumes, which you can find on the California Building Standards Commission’s website.
Key factors
We have already mentioned that the building code in California covers all types of existing buildings and current construction projects, but what are some of the key factors and changes in the new code?
One of the most notable updated in the code has to do with an increased focus on efficiency and sustainability. The code requires builders to offer concrete explanations for how they choose their HVAC systems, appliances and building materials. The code also includes strict efficiency standards for many features and fixtures, including toilets, lighting, showerheads and more. Essentially, the California Building Standards Commission is aiming to make every construction project a sustainable one.
Who should read it?
Obviously, anyone who is involved in construction should familiarize themselves with their state’s building code, especially developers and contractors. Beyond this, as a construction management company in California, we encourage all citizens to be at least loosely familiar with the code, and feel comfortable looking through it should they encounter something on their property that they feel may not be up to code.
Specifically, landlords, tenants, building maintenance workers and others can all benefit greatly by understanding Title 24.
Here to help
We know that when you start an exciting new construction project, it can be difficult to always be fully on top of recent changes to the building code. That’s why the team here at KSD Group Inc is happy to help. With nearly 40 years of experience and very strict quality standards, we are the construction management company in California that you need to help you stay on schedule, within the restrictions of your budget and up to code.
If you plan to start a construction project soon but cannot wrap your head around the new code regulations, please get in touch with us anytime. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
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