Renovations & Extensions

One aspect of construction is the erection of new buildings and structures. Within these construction environments, all of the tasks that are carried out in sequence are allocated specifically to the respective trades. In these working environments, the scale of operation is typically larger, and a greater emphasis is placed on planning and adherence to the schedule. For example, there are hundreds of individuals, both blue and white collar, involved in the creation of “new build” plots. In contrast, another aspect of construction is the renovation and extension of existing properties. When talking about residential renovations and extensions, the scale of the operation is generally much smaller, with far fewer individuals involved in the process. In the UK, this type of work is often carried out by “building gangs” - small limited companies consisting of a few operatives with a diverse range of skills. Due to the larger scope of works and the wider range of building knowledge required for carpenters and bricklayers to carry out their respective trades, these small companies will primarily feature operatives from these backgrounds. A large portion of the total works carried out, and almost all of the structural works are carried out between these two trades, and so it makes sense for the primary composition of the group to feature these trades. The bricklayers will carry out their skilled bricklaying works, and the carpenters will see to their own works. However, many of the other aspects of renovation works are more labour intensive than skilful, requiring more brawn than brains - though this is not to say that they do not require a wide array of building knowledge. These tasks become a collaborative effort between the group, which helps to keep costs down as well as ensuring things run smoothly. The demolition phase at the start of the job, as well as the larger structural works such as installing steels are not limited to a trade, though the wider knowledge possessed by the group lends itself to this type of work. Other skilled trades such as plumbers, electricians, plasterers, window fitters, tilers etc, can be called in when required to carry out the other specific tasks within the project.

In this section we will look at the common tasks carried out during extension works, and how the tasks are allocated.