Over the years, you have worked hard to build a reputation in the construction business. However, did you know that even simple negligence in foundation, poor planning, and substandard materials can not only jeopardise your entire project but also cost you money and credibility in the market? Let's discuss some biggest construction mistakes in detail.
Common construction mistakes
The most common building construction mistakes you might make as a construction business owner are:
- You might skip soil testing before starting construction on a site, but this mistake directly affects the strength of the foundation. If the site has clayey soil, it expands when wet and contracts when dry. If the soil is too loose, it may not be able to support the weight of the structure.
- Another mistake is failing to conduct accurate load calculations. This oversight can result in overloaded beams, columns, and slabs and can cause cracks, sagging, or even sudden structural failure.
- To save a few thousand rupees, never use low-quality or counterfeit construction materials. For instance, substandard cement may fail to provide the necessary strength. Similarly, low-grade steel might lack the required tensile strength to support loads.
Best practices to prevent future mistakes
Here are some best practices you can consider to avoid construction errors:
- It is recommended to conduct a geotechnical investigation to determine the bearing capacity, water table level, and soil composition. Doing so will help avoid situations like cracking and structural collapse.
- Always procure materials from trusted suppliers, and consider third-party testing for quality assurance.
- Apply waterproofing solutions during the foundation stage, especially in basements, retaining walls, and roofs. Use integral waterproofing compounds in the concrete mix.
- Remember that concrete takes 7-14 days to retain moisture and achieve strength. Instead of merely sprinkling water, use gunny bags, ponding, or curing compounds for hydration.
How does insurance help in these types of critical situations?
Here are some benefits of having construction insurance in place:
- If the building is damaged by fire, storms, or vandalism, the insurer offers compensation.
- Insurance covers damage or loss of construction materials and equipment on the site.
- If a fault in your construction process causes damage to a neighbouring property or injury to a person, the insurance covers their losses and medical treatment.
Conclusion
In the construction business, even minor builder mistakes can lead to major setbacks. From skipping soil testing to using low-quality materials, these errors can compromise your project’s safety and success. Avoid these common blunders by having proper load calculations and quality checks. Construction engineering insurance adds an extra layer of protection by extending coverage to unexpected damages and liabilities.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. Please read the sales brochure / policy wordings carefully for detailed information about on risk factors, terms, conditions and exclusions. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.