THE PROCESS AND PHASES

 

StructureTec believes that a project needs to be performed with the highest standard of quality throughout, this is emphasized in our approach. The phases which follow illustrate our time-tested method of achieving the highest standard of quality in every project.

 

PHASE 1: EVALUATION

 

The majority of our projects begin with the Evaluation Phase. During this phase, technicians survey and document the type and current condition of all components of the building. An infrared thermal imagery scan may also be conducted at this time by a certified thermographer to determine the amount of moisture in the substrate.  The causes of the problems are noted along with the symptoms.

 

This information is used to generate a Condition Index. This is StructureTec's objective standard which then is used to prioritize maintenance and replacement. A five-year long-range program is developed for the facility with estimated budgets.

 

PHASE 2: DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

 

Once areas have been designated for replacement, they go into the Design Development Phase. This is when the owner's needs, requirements, and budgets are delineated and the process of system selection occurs. Most of the major decisions are made during this phase.

 

PHASE 3: CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

 

The Construction Documents Phase occurs after Design Development. The designed system is very specifically delineated in the technical specifications utilizing the CSI format. This is combined with a contract portion of the documents and drawings to form the completed Construction Documents, which later become legally binding with the contractor and describe the work, rights, duties, and responsibilities of all parties.

 

PHASE 4: BIDDING/NEGOTIATIONS PHASE

 

The project typically moves into the Bidding/Negotiations Phase when the Construction Document is completed. This process is highly specialized by client. Public sector and private sector requirements vary. The private sector may choose to competitively bid the project among a group of pre-qualified bidders or negotiate with just one contractor. The public sector projects are advertised so that all qualified contractors may submit a bid, making it essential to delineate bidder qualifications.

 

PHASE 5: FIELD QUALITY ASSURANCE

 

Once the contractor is selected and the work begins, the project goes into the Field Quality Assurance Phase. This phase is crucial to overall project quality. Contractors, even high quality contractors, need to be monitored for adherence to the Construction Document. This is also a crucial time to have the consultant available to answer questions, perform testing and inspections, provide clear communication, generate the punch list, and finally closeout the project.

 

PHASE 6: MAINTENANCE PROGRAM

 

Areas that do not require replacement go into a maintenance program. Developing a program for ongoing preventative maintenance and repairs is another area of expertise for StructureTec.