Marcus RichardsThose who are new to the construction industry may feel a bit baffled on their first day of work – especially if they haven’t studied up on the long list of construction terms they need to know about. As with any industry, it’s better to learn the basics and improve your knowledge day by day.
If you’re about to embark on a career in the construction industry and you would like to improve your general knowledge, you have come to the right place. Here are eight terms that you need to know!
All-in Rate
The all-in rate refers to the total cost of an item. This includes both direct and indirect expenses, such as the equipment itself plus the cost of handling, storing, or delivering the product.
Baseline
Also known as a project baseline, the baseline refers to the starting point of your project. It’s the initial proposal you lay out with stakeholders. This can include details such as your schedule, scope, and the total cost of the project. The baseline then serves as a reference point with which you can compare your progress.
Bill of Quantities
BOQ or bill of quantities is a document used by consultants or quantity surveyors that defines both the quantity and quality of the work that is required to complete a project. This document will help determine the contract sum.
Computer Aided Design
Commonly known as CAD, a computer aided design is simply a type of software that engineers, construction managers, and architects use to create three-dimensional renderings of a building. However, these mock-ups and illustrations can also be two-dimensional.
Contingency plan
When you’re undertaking a new construction project, you never know what could go wrong. That’s why you will typically hear the term contingency plan being thrown around. This is a plan B that helps mitigate risk.
Request For Information
A request for information is commonly referred to as an RFI. So, what is an RFI in construction? This is a report that details all agreements, specifications, plans, and drawings of a project in a concise manner.
Rubblization
Rubbilization is a construction technique that turns existing concrete into rubble. This can help save both time and transportation costs. Rubbilization is a form of road rehabilitation commonly used when creating a base for new roads.
Underpinning
Sometimes the structure or foundation of a building needs to be restrengthened. In this case, many construction managers will opt for a process known as underpinning. Simply put, underpinning involves placing a new foundation below the existing structure to create more depth and stability.
No matter what industry you find yourself in, it’s never too late or too early to improve your knowledge. If you really want to excel in your career, you should spend at least an hour a week researching the latest trends and news in your sector. Those who stay ahead of the game can improve their skills and deliver results with greater certainty than those who do not.
