Construction Management Overview

The initial planning phase that sets the foundation for a construction project. It involves outlining the project's scope, schedule, goals, and objectives.

Detailed drawings prepared by engineers or architects that illustrate the design of the completed project, including specifications for materials and construction methods.

A document outlining the requirements for materials, design, products, or services used in a construction project. They ensure quality and consistency.

A type of construction contract where the contractor provides a fixed price for the entire project. The price covers all materials, labor, and equipment costs.

A type of construction contract where the contractor charges a specific cost for each unit of material or labor used in the project. This allows for flexibility in quantity changes.

The concrete base that supports the foundation of a building. It typically includes steel reinforcement and waterproofing for durability.

The concrete slab that forms the floor of a basement level. It often includes waterproofing, vapor barriers, and insulation for moisture prevention.

The structural walls that enclose a basement. They are typically made of concrete or concrete blocks, reinforced with steel, and include waterproofing and corrosion-resistant coatings.

Detailed documents outlining the specific characteristics and properties of materials used for a particular project, ensuring quality and consistency.

A type of specification that allows for substituting a named proprietary product with an equivalent alternative, offering flexibility in material sourcing.

A specification type that dictates the use of a specific product with no room for substitutions, ensuring precise selection of materials.

Materials that are easily reused or break down naturally, minimizing environmental impact and promoting sustainability.

A specification where the desired performance characteristics are defined, giving designers freedom to choose the best materials for specific needs.

Minimizing energy consumption during material production, promoting sustainability and reducing environmental impact.

Using materials that are known for their durability and resistance to wear and tear, minimizing replacements and extending the lifespan of a structure.

A step-by-step process for evaluation, involving factors such as performance requirements, budget constraints, and maintenance costs.

The cost of materials, labor, transportation, and installation.

How the material looks and feels, including color, texture, and pattern.

Conditions like temperature, humidity, and rainfall that might affect material performance.

How popular or widely used a material is, which can influence availability and cost.

Whether a material is readily available in the desired quantity and quality.

Evaluating the environmental impact of a material throughout its life cycle, from production to disposal.

Using materials that minimize environmental impact and promote resource conservation.

A method to assess the overall environmental impact of a material, taking into account its production, use, and disposal.

A device that measures the specific gravity of liquids, comparing their density to water density. It's a key tool for understanding fluid properties.

A machine used to mix cement, water, aggregates, and other ingredients for concrete production. It ensures a homogenous concrete mix.

A test method for determining the consistency of fresh concrete. It measures how much the concrete cone slumps after being filled and removed.

A device used to apply controlled stress to a test specimen, measuring its strength and behavior under tension, compression, or shear. It's essential for assessing material properties.

A tool used to vibrate fresh concrete to remove trapped air bubbles, making it denser and stronger. It improves workability and durability.

A tool used to compact fresh concrete inside molds to eliminate voids and excess air. It ensures a dense and uniform concrete structure.

A device that measures the pressure of a liquid or gas within a system. It's crucial for monitoring and controlling pressure in various applications.

A tool used to mix and work with mortar for bricklaying. It enables smooth application and shaping of mortar.