What building material has been around since 6500 BC and is still the most widely use material on earth? Concrete.

Whether you’re building a multi-story parking lot, healthcare facility, food processing plant, or any other commercial structure, chances are your builder will use concrete. Build just about anything and you’ll probably use some concrete.

It’s just that useful. While we wait for your next project’s foundation to cure, let’s dig into how concrete is used in construction.

Concrete’s Versatile Role in Commercial Construction

It’s not a fluke or a conspiracy. Concrete is highly used for very valid reasons. It;s the go-to choice for building foundations due to its ability to bear immense weight and resist environmental factors like moisture and soil pressure.

Concrete’s durability and resistance to corrosion also make it an ideal material for constructing culverts, ensuring long-term functionality and reliability in this extremely important part of society’s infrastructure.

Commercial facilities heavily rely on loading docks and truck pads for efficient logistics operations. Concrete surfaces provide the necessary strength and durability to support heavy loads, withstand vehicle movements, and resist abrasion.

Concrete’s smooth surface and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic and vehicular loads also make it a practical choice for high-traffic areas such as sidewalks and aprons.

Expanding commercial spaces often require additional levels or mezzanine floors to accommodate growing operations. Concrete offers the best solution for constructing these elevated platforms, providing stability and load-bearing capacity.

There’s so much it can do. We even use it to build walls.

Concrete Tilt-Up Construction Explained

Tilt-up construction is a popular method that has gained prominence for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness, particularly in commercial and industrial projects.

In tilt-up construction, precast concrete wall panels are cast horizontally on the ground (typically at or near the construction site) and then lifted into position using cranes. This method eliminates traditional formwork and allows for rapidly constructing large wall sections.

The Role of Precast Concrete in Tilt-Up Construction

Precast concrete plays an important role in tilt-up construction, offering several advantages over traditional cast-in-place methods:

• Quality Control: Precast concrete panels are cast in a controlled environment, ensuring consistent quality and adherence to specifications. This results in fewer defects and greater structural integrity.
• Speed of Construction: Prefabricating concrete panels offsite allows for simultaneous site preparation and panel production, reducing construction time significantly. Tilt-up construction accelerates the building process further by enabling rapid installation of precast panels.
• Cost Efficiency: While initial investment in precast molds and equipment may be higher, the overall cost savings from reduced labor, shorter construction schedules, and minimal onsite material waste make precast concrete a cost-effective choice in the long run.
• Design Flexibility: Precast concrete panels offer various design options, including various finishes, textures, and architectural details. These panels can be customized to meet the aesthetic and functional requirements of virtually any project, from sleek modern facades to standard industrial exteriors.
• Durability and Sustainability: Concrete is inherently durable and resistant to fire, moisture, and pests, making it an ideal building material for long-lasting structures. Additionally, precast concrete production can incorporate recycled materials and optimize energy efficiency, further enhancing its sustainability credentials.

Choosing a Builder for Your Concrete Construction

One of the foremost factors to consider when choosing a builder for your concrete construction project is their expertise and experience in the industry. As an independent commercial general contractor, GALBRAITH stands out for our proven track record in constructing food processing plants, hospitals, and medical facilities.

We are proud of our certifications: the American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE) Certified Healthcare Constructor Certificate, Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) Certificate, and Safe Quality Foods (SQF) Certificate. Through these programs, we work hard to provide accurate, safe, reliable concrete construction across commercial and industrial clients. As a Butler Builder®, we’re part of Butler Manufacturing’s™, network of trusted builders, bringing you top-quality building components for sustainable and efficient designs.

GALBRAITH Pre-Design Inc. is ready to turn your vision into a reality. Get in touch with us today.

The construction industry finds itself at a crossroads of technology and tradition. Technological advancements, from Building Information Modeling (BIM) to sustainable materials and prefabrication, are rapidly reshaping the landscape.

To navigate this evolving environment and consistently deliver exceptional project outcomes, construction companies must prioritize a strategic approach to employee development—upskilling.

Benefits of Upskilling

Upskilling is a comprehensive, long-term investment in continuously enhancing the knowledge and capabilities of your workforce. A commitment to ongoing employee development strengthens your construction company in more ways than training.

Upskilling as a Talent Magnet

Offering upskilling programs demonstrates your commitment to employee growth and you’ll be able to attract top talent who value ongoing development. This appeals to ambitious professionals looking to advance their careers and experienced workers in roles lacking upward mobility.

Enhanced Safety Practices

Training and upskilling initiatives in the construction industry increase employees’ awareness of how to prioritize safety protocols and best practices.

Investing in employee education on safety procedures and equipment usage prepares workers to mitigate risks and prevent accidents on job sites. This results in fewer workplace injuries, reduced downtime, and lower company insurance costs. As a Butler Builder®, we use  Butler Manufacturing™ components created to increase worker safety on job sites.

Improved Quality of Workmanship

Upskilling enables construction workers to acquire advanced techniques and knowledge, leading to higher-quality workmanship.

With a deeper understanding of construction methods and materials, workers can produce superior results, enhancing the overall reputation of the company and increasing client satisfaction.

Adaptation to Technological Advances

Upskilling initiatives ensure that workers remain up-to-date with the latest advancements, such as the best building information modeling (BIM) practices and automated construction equipment.

By adopting these technologies, companies can stay competitive and deliver projects more effectively. Many of these advancements focus on efficiency and reducing repetitive movements

Advancement Opportunities

By acquiring specialized certifications or mastering new skills, workers can become eligible for promotions or higher-paying positions.

Furthermore, companies that have a highly skilled workforce are more competitive when it comes to offering winning bids for complex commercial projects, such as building a medical facility.

Compliance with Regulations

Construction projects are subject to numerous regulations and building codes that must be adhered to. Upskilling programs ensure workers are well-versed in these regulations, reducing the risk of non-compliance and associated legal penalties.

This employee knowledge can aid companies in avoiding costly delays and fines during project execution. Constant changes to these rules also require consistent diligence, and training is really more than just a good idea.

Innovation and Sustainability

Upskilling enables innovation within the construction industry by encouraging sustainable building practices and green technologies.

Workers trained in eco-friendly construction methods can help companies reduce their environmental impact and meet the growing demand for sustainable building solutions. Increasing regulations in these fields also mean more demand for sustainability across more industries.

Improved Employee Morale and Retention

A skilled and motivated workforce is essential for long-term success in the construction industry. Investing in upskilling demonstrates a commitment to employee development and growth, which can boost morale and job satisfaction among construction workers.

Success in the construction industry depends on having a talented and flexible staff. Selecting organizations that place a high priority on upskilling ensures that your project will be managed by seasoned experts who stay current with emerging technology and market trends.

At GALBRAITH Pre-Design Inc., our team comprises highly skilled professionals who continuously update their expertise to meet industry demands. Get in touch with us today to discover more about our services.

One of the most important pieces to manage on any construction project can’t be found on site: the budget. Sometimes we must think outside of the box to get clients the facility they need within their budget, and sometimes that lies in a smart building approach called hybrid construction.

Hybrid construction uses the strengths of both wood-frame construction and metal building systems and optimizes costs while delivering a durable and functional building. Let’s look into how they do that.

The Synergy of Wood and Metal

Wood-frame construction has been a mainstay for centuries, offering affordability, versatility, and natural insulating properties. However, it’s usually not suitable for larger projects or those requiring significant structural support—that’s where metal building systems come in.

Metal offers exceptional strength, fire resistance, and strong clear-span spaces, making it ideal for larger spaces and buildings with heavy loads. However, metal alone can be more expensive than wood and may need more natural warmth in certain applications.

The beauty of hybrid construction lies in strategically combining these materials. By leveraging the expertise of an experienced construction company, you can create a cost-effective and high-quality structure.

Let’s talk about a few ways combining wood-frame construction and metal building systems is a good option.

Building on a Budget

Using wood to frame walls and interior elements lowers overall material costs when compared to an all-metal structure. Wood can be strategically placed where it is strong enough, whereas metal is best suited for areas that require superior support.

In general, less specialized labor is needed for wood-frame construction than for intricate metal structures. This results in less labor expense and faster assembly.

Speeding up Your Project Timeline

Metal buildings often use prefabricated components, allowing for faster on-site assembly. This reduces overall construction time compared to traditional site-built methods. Comparatively, wood-frame construction is a popular method of building, which is why framing completion can be faster than intricate metalwork.

Low Maintenance

Experienced builders will recommend wood types or treatments that are best suited to your climate and application, reducing future maintenance needs. They’ll also advise you on the best metal finishes to maximize longevity. By carefully planning the placement of wood and metal, you can reduce the number of areas susceptible to moisture, which is a common concern with wood framing.

Partnering with an Expert Construction Company

Look for a construction company with experience working with wood and metal and a strong understanding of hybrid construction techniques. We’ve partnered with Butler Manufacturing™, to bring you the best in hybrid construction, and can offer you tested innovations for your project.

With experience in this type of specialized construction, a contractor can help you in a few critical ways:

• Design Optimization: They will collaborate with you to develop a cost-effective design that utilizes wood and metal in the most appropriate locations.
• Quality Assurance: They will ensure all construction phases, from material selection to installation, adhere to the highest quality standards.
• Budget Management: Their experience will help you stay within budget by offering alternative material options and optimizing construction processes.

By combining the best of wood and metal construction with the expertise of a great general contractor, you can achieve a cost-effective, high-quality, and low-maintenance building customized for your specific needs and budget. It’s important you choose the right company, like GALBRAITH Pre-Design Inc. Contact us today to learn more!

We say it all the time, “Safety is our top priority,” and it’s true. What do we do to ensure a safe environment? How do we protect our employees and safeguard your project? It all starts with OSHA training.

OSHA, or Occupational Safety and Health Administration, is a government agency that makes workplace safety and health rules. OSHA training brings those rules to your team in an easy-to-digest manner to help them avoid workplace accidents, injuries, and illnesses.

Let’s jump in to find out more about the importance of OSHA training and the overall benefits of training for staff and clients.

What is OSHA Training?

OSHA training can help builders gain the knowledge and skills to work safely and efficiently in construction. It is a comprehensive program that covers many topics, including:

• How to find and avoid hazards at work.
• How to use and wear safety equipment.
• How to prepare and act in emergencies.
• How to communicate and label hazards.
• How to keep and report records.
• Following specific rules for different kinds of work, such as digging, building, wiring, welding, etc.

Who Needs OSHA Training?

OSHA training is required for some workers and recommended for others. OSHA states that workers who face hazards must have training to handle them. This includes workers who do:

• Demolition
• New Construction
• Alteration
• Repair
• Maintenance
• Heavy Machinery Driving
• Handling Dangerous Materials
• Power Tool Workers
• Exterior Construction Workers (working in tight or high spaces)

Some states, cities, and contractors may have their own rules for OSHA training. For example, some may ask workers to take a 10-hour or 30-hour course, which gives a general overview of the regulations and best practices. While hiring a construction agency, it’s vital to check the agency’s recommended level of OSHA training.

Benefits of Hiring OSHA-Certified Workers

Hiring an OSHA-certified team of workers offers you many advantages, including:

• Reduced Risks: OSHA-certified workers know how to identify and avoid workplace hazards. They wear the appropriate safety equipment, such as helmets, gloves, goggles, and boots. The workers also prepare for and act in emergencies, like evacuating, calling for help, and administering first aid while reporting workplace incidents. A company with safety training can reduce the risks of workplace accidents or injuries that harm workers or the project.
• Improved Quality: An OSHA certification offers the knowledge and skills to work safely and efficiently in construction. Workers follow specific rules and regulations for digging, building, wiring, welding, and other work. They also apply the best practices to ensure the quality and durability of the project. Certified workers will improve the quality of the project and ensure that it meets the building codes and regulations.
• Increased Productivity: OSHA-certified workers work faster and smarter as they avoid problems and delays. They also cooperate better with other workers, sharing a common language and understanding of safety and health. This allows them to handle any challenges or changes that may arise during the project. Choosing a safety-focused construction partner can increase productivity and save time and money.
• Enhanced Reputation: A company focusing on OSHA certification shows that it cares about workplace safety. This boosts their reputation and credibility among customers, partners, and authorities. They also help you comply with your legal and ethical obligations. In most cases, peers and the community recognize the quality of work these contractors provide. This makes them the best choice for all construction needs.

GALBRAITH Pre-Design Inc. is a construction company that cares about safety and training. We design, engineer, construct, and maintain facilities that meet our clients every needs and keep our employees safe during construction. Partnering with Butler Manufacturing™, we bring our employees and clients built-in safety systems to reduce employee danger on the job site. Contact us today to learn how we can help you with your construction needs!

While industrial construction is a symbol of progress, it does come with intricate challenges, particularly in balancing cost and quality.

That’s where value engineering steps in—a strategic method that transforms the industry, maintaining cost control while safeguarding quality assurance. Read on to understand the profound impact of value engineering in industrial construction.

Understanding Value Engineering in Industrial Construction

Value engineering represents the crux of efficient industrial construction. It involves a meticulous analysis of every aspect of a project, focusing on minimizing expenses while upholding the highest standards. This proactive approach spans material selection, design modifications, and lifecycle enhancements, ensuring a harmonious blend of cost-effectiveness and quality assurance.

Cost Control in Industrial Construction

Value engineering plays a crucial role in cost management, allowing project stakeholders to spot chances to save money without sacrificing the structure’s integrity or purpose. By methodically analyzing and making strategic changes, value engineering streamlines costs, creating an environment that prioritizes efficiency.

Quality Assurance

Quality assurance holds immense importance in industrial construction. Value engineering, while centered on cost efficiency, also acts as a safeguard for quality. By examining designs, materials, and construction methods, this approach guarantees that every aspect of the project meets the highest quality benchmarks, enhancing durability, sustainability, and overall performance.

Navigating the Impactful Steps of Value Engineering

Value engineering follows a structured path, encompassing essential steps that wield a profound impact on industrial construction projects:

• Information Gathering: Collating comprehensive data on project requirements, constraints, and existing designs sets the stage for informed decision-making.
• Creative Collaboration: Involving architects, engineers, and stakeholders fosters innovation, leading to alternative solutions that optimize project value.
• Thorough Evaluation: Rigorous analysis of proposed changes ensures alignment with project goals while mitigating risks and maximizing value.
• Refinement and Development: Fine-tuning design concepts and cost-effective solutions pave the way for increased value without compromising quality.
• Effective Communication: Transparently presenting findings and recommendations to stakeholders facilitates informed decision-making and ensures project alignment.
• Strategic Implementation: Executing recommended changes while monitoring progress guarantees the realization of cost efficiencies and quality enhancements.

Benefits of Value Engineering in Industrial Construction

The implementation of value engineering offers an array of benefits that reverberate across industrial construction projects:

Cost Optimization

Maximizing value without compromising quality or safety. This leads to better resource allocation, ensuring that funds are used efficiently and effectively to achieve project goals while maintaining high standards.

Efficiency Enhancement

Improving functionality and sustainability through streamlined processes. This benefit focuses on identifying and implementing better methods to increase productivity and reduce waste in operations.

Innovation Cultivation

Fostering creative thinking for optimized designs and methods. This benefit encourages a culture of innovation that can lead to innovative ideas, improved designs, and more efficient construction practices.

Risk Mitigation

Early identification and resolution of potential issues. This benefit involves actively identifying and addressing risks before they escalate, ultimately saving time and costs by preventing complications.

Stakeholder Satisfaction

Aligning project outcomes with stakeholder expectations. This benefit ensures that the final project meets or exceeds the desires and needs of those involved, maintaining satisfaction while adhering to budgetary constraints.

Value engineering is a shining example of efficiency and quality assurance in industrial buildings, where precision meets complexity. Construction projects reach new heights of excellence by implementing this strategic strategy, which skillfully balances quality assurance and cost control for success and innovation in the future. Working as a Butler Builder®, we’re part of Butler’s® network of Pre-engineered metal building contractors and designers. With data based on years of research and development, our partnership offers clients systems created for value.

Want to use value engineering to maximize the construction of your industrial buildings? GALBRAITH Pre-Design Inc. is here to help you at every stage. Contact us to learn more.

The choice of adaptive reuse and renovation projects is gaining significant momentum with large-scale commercial and industrial operations. This surge is primarily attributed to the compelling economic and environmental advantages offered by adaptive reuse and renovation projects.

Read on to learn more about the benefits of choosing an adaptive reuse and renovation approach if you’re looking to complete a large commercial or industrial project.

The Strategic Advantages of Adaptive Reuse and Renovation Projects

There are many strategic advantages for clients looking to try adaptive reuse and renovation projects for their large commercial and industrial endeavors. Some of the largest benefits include (but are not limited to) the following:

Enhanced Lifespan

By incorporating state-of-the-art materials, businesses can prolong the functional lifespan of their facilities, reducing the frequency of major renovations or reconstructions. This can be seen particularly well in specialized settings such as cold storage and data centers. By leveraging enhanced materials and modern construction techniques, businesses can significantly extend the lifespan of their facilities while optimizing operational efficiency.

Operational Efficiency and Adaptability

Modern materials and construction techniques improve energy efficiency as well, leading to reduced operational costs for large commercial and industrial clients. The flexible nature of adaptive reuse and renovation projects also allows businesses to customize spaces according to evolving operational needs, promoting adaptability and scalability.

Maximizing Return on Investment

Adaptive reuse and renovation projects offer the potential for substantial long-term returns through various avenues, including cost savings, enhanced operational efficiency, and the creation of modern, functional spaces. When considering the return on investment (ROI) of adaptive reuse and renovation projects, elements such as a comprehensive evaluation of upfront costs, anticipated energy savings, and the potential for increased property values all need to be considered. When they are, it’s easy to see the strong financial positioning adaptive reuse and renovation projects have.

Building Sustainable and Resilient Business Environments

The impact of adaptive reuse and renovation projects extends beyond financial considerations as they can help in fostering sustainable and resilient business environments. By repurposing existing structures, businesses can align with corporate sustainability goals, embody resource conservation, and integrate seamlessly with local communities. This helps to reinforce their commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

The strategic decision to embark on adaptive reuse and renovation projects presents an opportunity for large businesses to strategically align their operations with sustainable practices, and it also helps realize long-term economic benefits at the same time. By capitalizing on adaptive reuse and renovation, companies can not only optimize their physical environments to reflect modern efficiencies but also position themselves as pioneers in sustainable development.

Navigating Regulatory and Technological Considerations

While adaptive reuse and renovation projects present a lot of benefits for those looking at starting large commercial and industrial projects, they also present unique challenges. This comes in the form of zoning regulations, environmental impact assessments, and compliance with building codes of all shapes and sizes. To take care of this, essential considerations should include:

• Regulatory Compliance: Make sure you navigate the appropriate federal, state, and local regulations to ensure legal conformity throughout the renovation process.
• Technological Integration: The integration of smart building technologies, energy-efficient systems, and digital infrastructure demands thorough planning to optimize functionality and operational benefits.

Our team at GALBRAITH Pre-Design Inc. is ready to help you harness the benefits of adaptive reuse and renovation projects while also helping you navigate any regulatory and technological considerations. Using Butler Manufacturing™  components, we help you achieve a successful project with maximum value.  Contact us now to transform your business for the better.

Long gone are the days of consulting The Farmer’s Almanac. The amazing technology used in the agricultural construction industry creates more than beautiful produce. The field is sparking new technologies that could help you grow more products with fewer resources and revolutionize how we use space to create food.

If you are a commercial farmer growing lettuces, peppers, spinach, strawberries, and herbs, you’ve more than likely wondered if a greenhouse with a controlled environment would help you increase your revenue. Vertical farming or cutting-edge hydroponic grow house, new farming methods are being combined with tried-and-true horticulture science for some amazing results.

What’s inside a greenhouse matters as much as how it’s built. Choosing the right equipment, and designing your building for that setup, is critical for you to get the maximum output for your hard work.

We hope this brief guide will help you make an informed decision about the greenhouse you need for your operations in Pennsylvania. Let’s explore the main components of a greenhouse.

Key Components

Heating and Cooling Systems

The growing season in the Pennsylvania Lowlands lasts around 6 to 7 months due to its mild climate. This makes a system that can sustain a constant temperature one of the most critical components.

While you’re probably used to the idea of preparing for a freeze, indoor systems mitigate crop disasters for you. When designing your greenhouse, it is essential to incorporate fans, vents, shade curtains, and fogging systems.

Irrigation Systems

Manual watering of crops is labor intensive, which is why automated irrigation is your best option.

When designing a greenhouse, adding overhead sprinklers, misting systems, drip irrigation systems, and soaker hoses is a must. What controls those systems is becoming the really interesting part.

With technological innovations on the rise, it’s possible to have artificial intelligence (AI) software controlling irrigation systems to provide the right amount of water to your plants at the right time.

Lighting System

When designing a greenhouse, you should also consider the type of lamps you want to incorporate.

High-pressure sodium (HPS) and metal halide (MH) lamps, as well as LED lights, are all great options to provide enough UV to your crops during cloudy or rainy days.

Energy costs are a major obstacle for indoor farming and vertical farming especially. Designing a system to harness day light or and even solar power helps you increase sustainability and lower energy consumption.

Growing Media and Fertilization

If you decide to use a hydroponic system, it’s important to make sure the greenhouse design will accommodate it. There are a variety of systems, including:

• Nutrient Film Technique (NFT)
• Deep Water Culture (DWC)
• Wick Hydroponics
• Ebb & Flow
• Drip Hydroponics
• Aeroponics
• Dutch Buckets

Along with making sure your greenhouse can support your hydroponics system, you may want to add a CO2 fertilization system as well. With options ranging from a CO2 generator to a carbon dioxide system fully integrated into your facility, the design needs to reflect your business needs.

What Structure Should You Opt For?

There are two main structure styles for greenhouses: the ridge and furrow type and freestanding greenhouse structures. While ridge and furrow buildings are the most economical, freestanding ones are more versatile when it comes to structural design.

Gutter-connected greenhouses, the more common name for ridge and furrow, offer cost-effective construction, optimize ground space usage, and entail lower heating expenses per unit of floor area. They do have disadvantages like reduced light penetration due to eave shadows and other structural elements, as well as the potential for snow accumulation along the eaves causing issues.

Close Out

When designing the greenhouse for your horticulture and grow facility, you want to have ventilation, insulation, UV protection, and durability in mind. This is where GALBRAITH Pre-Design Inc. comes in.

We champion the design-build approach, where the responsibility for the success of your project is shared between designers and builders. This approach ensures that the final product meets your expectations. We’ll use industry leading Butler Manufacturing™ systems to give your project the best value for your budget.

Contact us today to take your year-round farming business to the next level.

Healthcare facilities, whether hospitals, clinics, or specialized treatment centers, require construction expertise far beyond most conventional building projects. A building contractor that prioritizes patient care is vital.

This is where certified contractors step in. Extra knowledge and experience in medical construction ensures you can provide our community with proper continuity of care—and your contractor should take that role seriously. Design and construction elements like reinforcement, both structural and specialized materials, are more than suggestions for most healthcare projects.

Continue reading to learn about the critical role that professional contractors play in constructing healthcare facilities.

Unique Challenges in Healthcare Facility Construction

The fine points of patient care, stringent safety protocols, and adherence to health regulations make healthcare facility construction unique. Approved contractors are well-versed in these complexities, ensuring that every aspect of the project aligns with the specific needs of your niche in the healthcare industry.

The Importance of Certification

Certification signifies that a contractor has undergone rigorous training and competently follows healthcare-specific standards. We consider it a mark of professionalism and a commitment to excellence.

Expertise in Infection Control

Armed with specialized training and certification, the builders possess the knowledge and skills to implement infection control measures during construction. This expertise is invaluable in preventing the spread of infections while your facility is under construction.

Compliance with Regulatory Requirements

Accredited contractors ensure that every aspect of the construction project complies with state and federal laws. This level of compliance is essential for the safety of patients and the facility’s legal standing.

These regulations are also different, depending on the state, county, and specialization. Familiarity with building requirements for different areas is essential for your project’s success.

Efficient Project Management

Certified contractors bring project management expertise that streamlines the construction process. They operate on deadlines and operate safely and accurately.

Experience in full-cycle construction, like design-build, creates a contractor that calculates lead times, construction times, and your deadlines into a reliable timeframe.

Adapting to Changing Technologies

Healthcare, like construction, evolves constantly. With technological innovations and their ensuing regulations, up-to-date experience and knowledge is critical.

Skilled contractors stay informed of the latest medical equipment and technical infrastructure advancements, ensuring the facility provides state-of-the-art care and meets or exceeds rules and regulations. We’ve also partnered with industry leader Butler Manufacturing™ to give you access to the latest in building technology.

Safety First

The best contractors prioritize safety at every stage of the healthcare construction process. This commitment reduces the risk of accidents and ensures the well-being of everyone on the construction site.

Flexibility and Adaptability

It’s hard to relocate an entire medical unit and maintain your scheduled appointments, so healthcare centers often need to remain operational during construction or renovation.

Professional contractors understand the need for flexibility and adaptability and go to great lengths to minimize disruptions to patient care while work is underway. We’re also knowledgeable about medical information security needs and work with you to ensure protected health information stays secure.

Accountability and Quality Assurance

Accredited contractors take accountability seriously. Like your own organization, they have systems in place to ensure quality assurance throughout the construction process.

This commitment to quality translates into a healthcare facility that meets or exceeds industry standards.

Certifications Essential

Healthcare construction contractors need certifications to guarantee safety, quality, and adherence to medical facility project requirements. These certifications demonstrate their expertise and commitment to the specialized demands of healthcare construction. Becoming a Certified Healthcare Constructor (CHC) by the American Hospital Association (AHA) signifies proficiency in healthcare construction practices, infection control, healthcare regulations, and facility operations.

The Infection Risk Assessment (ICRA) certification is essential for effectively managing infection risks in healthcare settings and safeguarding patients and staff. Additionally, the ASHE Healthcare Construction Certificate (HCC) from the American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE) addresses healthcare-specific challenges, regulatory compliance, and the unique demands of healthcare facility projects.

Do you need a certified, trained professional to handle your Healthcare construction’s unique needs? GALBRAITH Pre-Design Inc.’s team can help you. Contact us now.

When it comes to modern steel building construction, insulated metal panels (IMPs) have emerged as a highly versatile and eco-friendly option. They offer an array of benefits, from design customization to environmental sustainability and acoustic insulation.

Welcome back to the final part of our 3-part series on Insulated Metal Panels. These innovative building components create an energy-efficient facility and are extremely durable. In the first part we gave you a breakdown of what IMPs are and their benefits. In Part 2, we talked about maintenance and durability.

This time, let’s discuss some customization options, sustainability, and acoustic benefits of Insulated Metal Panels.

Customization Options with Insulated Metal Panels

One of the key reasons why insulated metal panels are gaining popularity is their vast range of customization options. Manufacturers like Butler Manufacturing™ offer an impressive selection of colors, finishes, sizes, and profiles for IMPs, allowing architects and builders to achieve their desired aesthetics.

For instance, the eStylWall™ Flat series from Butler Manufacturing provides a wide range of color choices, ensuring that the building’s exterior can match the surrounding environment or reflect the branding of the business it houses. The ability to select different finishes also adds to the design possibilities, catering to various architectural styles.

Moreover, IMPs offer exceptional design flexibility, adapting to different building shapes and structures. The TextureWall™ panel by Butler Manufacturing exemplifies classic styling with modern innovation. Its textured surface not only adds a unique touch to the building’s appearance but also offers enhanced visual interest and depth.

Environmental Considerations of Insulated Metal Panels

Environmental sustainability is a crucial aspect of modern construction, and IMPs tick several boxes when it comes to green building practices.

Firstly, the materials used in insulated metal panels are often recyclable, reducing the demand for new resources and minimizing waste generation. This aspect aligns well with the growing emphasis on circular economies and reducing the carbon footprint of construction projects.

Secondly, IMPs contribute to energy efficiency in buildings. The insulated core of the panels helps regulate indoor temperature, leading to reduced heating and cooling needs. This thermal efficiency can lead to lower energy consumption, resulting in cost savings and a smaller environmental impact.

Furthermore, buildings constructed with IMPs may qualify for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, a prestigious recognition of sustainable and eco-friendly construction. Such certification can enhance the property’s value and appeal to environmentally conscious businesses and tenants.

Acoustic Insulation with Insulated Metal Panels

Beyond their thermal properties, insulated metal panels also offer excellent acoustic insulation benefits. Noise pollution is a growing concern in urban areas, and IMPs can be an effective solution to mitigate it.

Within commercial buildings like offices and hotels, IMPs help keep unwanted external noise out, creating a more conducive environment for work, relaxation, or rest. Reduced noise intrusion can lead to increased employee productivity and guest satisfaction.

Conversely, in industrial facilities and manufacturing plants, where noise is an inherent part of operations, IMPs can keep the noise contained within the building. This containment is vital for maintaining a harmonious relationship with neighboring communities and adhering to noise regulations.

At GALBRAITH Pre-Design Inc, we are not only an award-winning design-build commercial and industrial construction, but we’re also a certified Butler Builder®. Are you in Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic and need your construction project done right? Then get in touch with us today and get started!