According to the most recent data available from the Census Bureau’s Survey of Construction (SOC), the time it takes to complete a multifamily construction project rose from 17 months in 2021 to 19.8 months in 2022. Several factors may have influenced the time it takes to complete multifamily construction projects. However, the lingering effects of the pandemic are likely the biggest challenge. Companies are now working to develop solutions that limit slowdowns and accelerate project timelines.
Bolt-on Balconies
One area that has seen much growth in recent years is aluminum balconies, which modern multifamily buildings often include. While balconies are traditionally installed in the later stages of projects, new innovations are gaining traction in the marketplace to improve the process of installing balconies. One of these innovations is bolt-on balconies that require zero on-site assembly. These bolt-on balconies can be extremely customizable, prefabricated, and shipped straight to the build site. Because of their customization capabilities, architects enjoy much greater freedom to control the exterior design. Full customizability also includes incorporating multiple materials beyond just aluminum, such as wood, concrete, and steel.
These bolt-on balconies also frequently include advanced water removal features; after a heavy rain or snow, these balconies remove water without dripping it onto the balconies below.
Custom Steel Stairs
Along with aluminum bolt-on balconies, steel stairs are also transitioning towards prefabrication construction. New construction techniques allow for any type of stairs to be preassembled and transported to their destination, including monumental stairs, modular stairs, egress emergency exit stairs, and access stairs.
Similar to aluminum bolt-on balconies, these stairs can be fully customized with shape, design, and materials, allowing for style and functionality. Specifically, customizations can be made around the spindle, balustrading, bullnose step, flight, landing, nosing, pitch, riser, and tread.
With this prefabrication process, stairs are manufactured and assembled in a shop and then delivered by truck to the job site. Once delivered to the site, the fully completed stairs can be lifted off the truck by crane and lowered into place. This drastically saves on on-site installation time.
Miscellaneous Metals
Commercial metal fabrication manufacturers that produce products such as aluminum balconies and steel stairs often have the capability to complete custom jobs. Also known as Division 5, metal fabrication can include metal construction that is more ornamental than functional, a combination of both, or completely functional.
These sorts of jobs can incorporate different types of metal beyond aluminum and steel, such as copper, brass, and other materials. Things that could fall under the umbrella of miscellaneous metals for architectural construction include benches, screws, knobs, hinges, and more. Other options may be access ladders or commercial fencing. Metal supports, such as heavy steel beams used for supporting columns or other structural elements, would also fall under this miscellaneous metal description. More ornamental pieces could include things like commercial railings with a repeated design for applications on pedestrian or vehicle bridges.
The Present and Future
In today’s world, with construction projects like multifamily builds taking longer and longer to complete, it is crucial to have the right partners in your corner. Having a partner that can handle several different aspects of a project and can save time and money with the latest innovations in construction will benefit both the builder, architect, and workers.
Take the next step with Milwaukee-based Midwest Iron. We are ready to help your project work smarter, focusing on high-quality craftsmanship, prefabrication and assembly, national shipping, and customizable designs. Start your project with a reliable collaborator for commercial spaces by talking to our team.
