There are diverse techniques and processes in the construction industry, and this is because different buildings serve different purposes. The methods, skills, and thoughts behind the construction vary for the two major construction types: commercial construction and industrial construction.
Commercial construction, as implied by the root word ‘commerce,’ which means the activity of buying and selling, is the construction of enterprises, and business outlets that provide services, to improve the lifestyle of consumers and also make a profit. Examples are restaurants, universities, hospitals, hotels, and shopping malls.
Industrial construction is the construction of businesses that focus majorly on the manufacturing goods like refineries, production companies, power plants, etc
These two categories differ in distinct areas, and four of them are highlighted in this article.
1. Site Planning and Location
This explains why farms and heavy-duty companies are always away from the bustle of the city, and shopping malls at the heart of it. The location and proposed site are thoroughly examined to fit the category of construction before the building starts.
The site where the building is located in one of the significant differences between a commercial and industrial construction building.
For commercial construction, which are structures with businesses that serve people, customers’ easy access to the building is important. This is why a commercial general contractor in Calgary will build at the heart of the city, or ‘close to’ with ample parking, a good road network, and other amenities instead of at the remote part.
This is not the case for industrial construction, which is focused on manufacturing. Its preferred location is in areas with quick and easy access to major highways, seaports, and airports for easy transportation of manufactured goods, so it’s typically located on the outskirts of a town or city.
2. Design
Commercial buildings such as hotels, sports facilities, shopping malls, etc., are built to hold the attention of intended customers, so the designs are very stylish. Both the interior and exterior of the projects have to be aesthetically pleasing with fascinating structures. The floor plan is also designed to withstand foot traffic and provide smooth mobility because of the influx of crowds.
Functionality is widespread in the design of industrial buildings. Its interest is in coordination, manufacturing, and distribution, and its structures are built to aid that.
3. Project Management
Once a project commences, it is the responsibility of the contractor to meet the set goals, either through suppliers or subcontractors and for commercial construction, it is quite simple. For instance, a commercial general contractor in Calgary ensures project success by hiring experts and skilled artisans experienced in building the kind of structure common there.
Industrial construction mostly involves heavy and large equipment and expertise that might be outside the scope of a commercial project. Fabrication and modification of materials and equipment on-site can make industrial project management difficult.
4. Final Permitting
Upon completion, a commercial site is only allowed to open its doors after finalizing permit and occupancy requirements as stated by the local administration of the site. A retail venture needs approval from no more than local planning and zoning boards, health departments, and local engineering offices.
The process of obtaining permits for industrial construction can be rigid because, because of the kind of project it is, there is a long chain of standards that has to be met from local to state and federal bodies.
