Man sit in a office removal truck

How Long Does the Moving Process Take?

Moving an office is an hard it requires planning team and organisation hence it takes 6-12 months to complete a large office move. Understanding how long an office move process takes is key to managing this big relocation efficiently. Let’s take a look at the typical timeline and what’s involved.

Key Points:

  • Initial planning: 6-12 months
  • Searching and selection: 2-4 months
  • Design and fit-out: 1-3 months
  • Actual move: 1-2 weeks
  • Settling in: 1-2 months

Initial Planning

It’s no secret that success lies in thorough planning. When you’re considering an office move, the groundwork can begin between 6-12 months before the actual move date. This period includes understanding your current space, and future requirements, and setting a budget. It’s all about getting a clear picture of what you need to manage an office move successfully.

The Search and Selection

Van and a pile of packed box on a pallet

Next up is the hunt for a suitable new location, which can take 2-4 months. This includes scouting potential sites, conducting site visits, and negotiating leases. It’s essential to find a space that aligns with your company’s values and future growth plans.

Design and Fit-Out

Once you’ve sealed the deal on the new office, it’s time for the design and fit-out phase. This takes 1-3 months depending on the size of the office and the extent of customisation required. This period is crucial for setting up a workspace that encourages productivity and positivity.

The Actual Move

Finally, the big day arrives! The physical process of moving can take anywhere from a single day to 1-2 weeks, depending on the size of your office and the distance to the new location. This is the time when all the planning comes to fruition, and you see the new space coming together.

Settling In

Once the physical move is complete, it’s all about settling into your new environment. This can take 1-2 months as employees adjust to the new space, tweak their workstations, and get used to the new commute.

In a Nutshell

Managing an office move takes up to a year, with the actual move taking a few days to a couple of weeks. However, remember that these are estimates – the duration can vary based on several factors, such as the size of your office, the distance to the new location, and how quickly decisions are made.

scaffold raker

What is a raker in construction

When you think about construction, you probably imagine cranes, bulldozers, and hammers. While these are indeed essential, there’s another less-known but crucial component: the raker.

Raker: The Support Star

A raker is a diagonal support placed to reinforce a scaffold, a wall, or an excavation site. Unlike most parts of a construction site that catch your eye immediately, rakers do their job quietly in the background.

How Does a Raker Work?

Imagine a raker as a helpful friend that prevents things from toppling over. Rakers offer additional support and stability, especially for temporary structures.

When a wall or scaffold is built, it can lean or even collapse under pressure. But when a raker is installed diagonally, it counteracts these forces, providing essential support and maintaining the integrity of the structure.

What is the angle of the scaffold raker?

The angle of a raker, also known as a diagonal brace, can vary based on the specific requirements of the structure. However, for optimal stability and support, these braces are usually installed at an angle of about 45 degrees to the vertical posts (standards) and horizontal parts (ledgers) of the scaffolding.

Why is a Raker Essential in Construction?

Rakers play a crucial role in construction for several reasons:

  • Safety: They provide stability, reducing the risk of accidents.
  • Structure: They preserve the integrity of walls and scaffolding.
  • Efficiency: They allow work to proceed smoothly without disruptions caused by structural issues.

Types of Rakers

Scaffold under construction

Just as each construction project is unique, rakers also come in different shapes and sizes:

  1. Flying Rakers: These are used in scaffolding and are fixed at one end, while the other end supports a structural wall.
  2. Shore Rakers: These support walls or trenches in excavation sites, preventing them from collapsing.
  3. Fixed Rakers: Used in many construction scenarios, they are securely fastened at both ends for increased support.

So remember, while cranes and bulldozers grab all the spotlight, the real hero is the raker, quietly ensuring that everything stands tall and strong, even in the face of difficult construction challenges. So that is what the raker is doing in construction.

Definition

A raker is a type of brace or support that is positioned at an angle or diagonally to provide extra stability to a temporary structure, such as a scaffold or a wall. It’s especially important when the structure may be subjected to lateral forces or the wall or structure may be prone to leaning or collapsing. Rakers help ensure the safety and structural integrity of construction sites.

Scaffolding on busy high street.

What is the purpose of scaffolding in construction?

In the exciting world of construction, the often-unnoticed heroes are the massive structures of tubes and platforms known as scaffolding. What role do they play? How do they contribute to the final, magnificent building that stands tall in your city skyline? Let’s dive in to understand the indispensable purpose of scaffolding in construction.

What is Scaffolding?

Often, the first structure to rise in a construction site isn’t the building itself but its scaffold. This temporary structure, usually made from steel or aluminium tubes connected by couplers or sometimes wooden boards, is erected to provide support, access and work platforms for construction workers. Think of it as the skeleton of the building, guiding its rise.

The Fundamental Roles of Scaffolding

The role of scaffolding serves three primary functions in the construction process:

  1. Scaffolding provides easy access to parts of the construction site that would otherwise be hard to reach. It essentially forms a ladder or a bridge, helping workers climb to great heights safely and efficiently.
  2. It gives support and strength to the building during construction. It also supports workers, building materials, and tools, bearing a great deal of weight during the process.
  3. Safety is the cornerstone of any construction project, and scaffolding plays a significant role in ensuring this. Its presence reduces the risk of falls and accidents, creating a safe working environment.

The Impact of Scaffolding on Safety

Scaffolding is integral in maintaining the safety of workers on a construction site. It ensures that builders have a stable, balanced platform to work on, reducing the risks of mishaps and accidents. The importance of this cannot be understated – scaffolding saves lives.

Furthermore, scaffolding is designed to be sturdy and resilient. It can withstand the elements and changes in weather, providing a reliable workspace for construction teams regardless of the circumstances.

Scaffold under construction

The Construction Catalyst

While scaffolding is a temporary structure, its impact on the construction project is anything but. It is the silent partner, ensuring smooth operations by providing safe, reliable access and support. Without it, constructing the towering structures we marvel at today would be a much more difficult and dangerous task.

While scaffolding may not get the glamour of the final architectural masterpiece, it is a crucial player in the construction game. Understanding its role helps us appreciate the complexity and thoughtfulness that goes into every structure we see. The next time you pass by a construction site, take a moment to appreciate the scaffolding.

Scaffold under construction

How Hard is Scaffolding as a Job? A Comprehensive Insight

As the construction industry continues to grow and evolve, scaffolding remains an integral part of the process. For those considering a career in this field, it’s natural to wonder, “How hard is scaffolding as a job?” In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve into the world of scaffolding, discuss its challenges and rewards, and provide you with an insightful understanding of this fascinating profession. Get ready to uncover what it takes to excel as a scaffolding expert.

Scaffold under construction

Table of Contents:

  1. Physical Demands
  2. Mental Challenges
  3. Training and Certification Requirements
  4. Working Conditions in the Scaffolding Industry
  5. Opportunities for Growth and Development

1. Physical Demanding

Scaffolding as a job is physically demanding. Workers are often required to lift and carry heavy materials, such as steel and wooden poles, as well as maneuver them into position. Additionally, the job calls for excellent balance and agility as scaffolders work at great heights and on narrow platforms. Maintaining strength and stamina throughout the workday is essential to avoid injuries and ensure productivity.

  • Heavy Lifting and Carrying
  • Balance and Agility
  • Strength and Stamina

2. Mental Challenges in Scaffolding

Residential scaffold
  • Problem-Solving Skills
  • Attention to Detail
  • Coping with Stress

While the physical aspects of scaffolding are evident, the mental challenges should not be underestimated. Scaffolders must possess strong problem-solving skills to create safe and efficient structures for various construction projects. Attention to detail is crucial to ensure that all components are assembled correctly and securely. Moreover, coping with stress and staying calm under pressure is vital in this high-risk occupation.

3. Training and Certification Requirements

Builder's hard hat
  • Apprenticeships and On-the-Job Training
  • Industry Certifications
  • Safety Training

To become a professional scaffolder, one must undergo rigorous training and obtain the necessary certifications. Apprenticeships and on-the-job training provide hands-on experience and practical knowledge. Obtaining industry certifications, such as the Scaffold Training Institute (STI) and the Scaffold and Access Industry Association (SAIA), is essential to demonstrate competency. Furthermore, safety training, including OSHA standards, plays a critical role in ensuring a secure work environment.

When considering scaffolding as a career, it’s important to understand the various costs involved. The initial investment includes the cost of training and certifications necessary to enter the field. This may involve fees for apprenticeship programs, coursework, and examination costs for obtaining industry certifications. Once you’re in the profession, there’s the ongoing cost of personal protective equipment (PPE) and tools of the trade, which ensure safety and efficiency on the job. Furthermore, traveling or relocating for projects can also incur additional expenses. However, these costs are typically offset by the competitive salaries and potential for career growth in the scaffolding industry.

4. Working Conditions in the Scaffolding Industry

  • Weather Conditions
  • Work Hours
  • Traveling and Relocation

Scaffolders often work outdoors, exposing them to varying weather conditions like extreme heat, cold, or rain. Long work hours and tight deadlines are common in the construction industry, which may lead to fatigue and stress. Additionally, the job may require traveling to different locations or even relocating, depending on project demands.

5. Opportunities for Growth and Development

Temporary structure
  • Specialization
  • Leadership and Management Roles
  • Entrepreneurship

Despite the challenges, scaffolding offers numerous opportunities for growth and development. Scaffolders can choose to specialize in specific sectors, such as commercial, industrial, or residential projects. With experience, they can advance to leadership and management roles, overseeing teams and projects. Some scaffold professionals may also choose to start their own scaffolding businesses, leveraging their expertise and industry connections.

Scaffolding as a job is undeniably challenging, demanding both physical and mental prowess. From heavy lifting and working at heights to problem-solving and coping with stress, the job tests one’s resilience and determination. However, for those who are passionate about the construction industry and thrive in dynamic environments, scaffolding offers a

Builder's hard hat

Tips for choosing the best builder

Working with an experienced and qualified builder for your project is one way to ensure that you get the best results. Compromising on the type of builder you choose can end up costing you more than you had initially planned. The construction industry is rapidly growing and getting saturated with all sorts of experts making it easy for you to find yourself working with a ‘cowboy’ builder. For you to get the perfect match for your project, you need to ask the right questions.

Builder at work
Builder at work

Important questions to ask a building contractor

When choosing a contractor for your project, asking the right questions will help you determine whether your builder is reliable or not. A reliable builder should be able to answer all questions without feeling intimidated in any way. So, what are these questions that you’re supposed to ask?

1. Are you a registered contractor

A professional builder shouldn’t hesitate to show any paperwork or documents that prove their legitimacy. You should be able to determine whether your contractor is registered with any recognised trade body. If they are accredited, the common trade bodies you should check in the UK include the Federation of Master Builders(FMB) and the National Federation of Builders(NFB).

2. For how long have you been active in the industry

For how long has the contractor been active in the industry? A longer duration implies that they have a better grasp of the trends in the industry thanks to their years of experience and the different projects handled during this time. This should also give you a better glimpse of their success rate.

3. What other projects have you handled before

The contractor should have a portfolio of the projects they’ve already handled. Looking at this will help you determine whether the contractor will be suited for your project. Can they handle the type of project you have or do they have a specific area of specialty?

4. Can you show me your ongoing projects

Looking at the ongoing projects will help you get insight into how your contractor works and communicates with his team. How do they maintain the site? Do they have any waste disposal solution? You might be lucky enough to get a design that inspires you.

5. Are they insured?

Any contractor who is serious about their work and who has their clients’ needs in mind should have insurance. From contract work insurance to employer’s liability insurance, these show that your contractor has your best interest. With insurance, you’re assured that you’ll be on the safe side should anything happen in the course of the project.

6. Can you refer me to some of your previous clients

One way to get honest feedback about a contractor is by talking to previous clients. They will tell you their honest opinion about the contractor’s work and how he deals with his customers. You might also get a chance to see some of your contractor’s work and gauge their level of skill and expertise.

7. Will you sub-contract anyone during the project

To avoid any complications, it’s good to know who you’re working with. Your contractor should inform you if there are any subcontracted parties they’re working with on the project or if they’ll handle everything from start to completion. This will help develop a clear line of communication when the project is underway.

Even though there are many things that you can do and questions you can ask to ensure that you’re working with the right contractor for your project, having clearly defined communication will go a long way. Also, it’s good to clearly define your expectations before commencing your project to avoid any disappointment along the way.

Skyrise office buildings

Expert Strategies on How to Manage an Office Move

Office relocation is quite a challenging task, particularly when you need to handle an office move with precision. With a multitude of elements to consider, it’s crucial to have a meticulously crafted plan. This is your effective and stress-free blueprint on how to manage an office move, ensuring minimal disruption to your business.

1. Streamline Your Utility Services to Handle an Office Move

Man sit in a office removal truck

As a crucial step on how to manage your office move, make sure all necessary utilities will be operational by the time of the move. These may include:

  • Internet connection
  • Telephone lines
  • Electricity
  • IT Infrastructure

Begin negotiating service agreements with your new providers at least a month before moving. Meanwhile, discuss termination with your current suppliers. It’s essential to maintain the continuity of services till your last day in your existing office.

2. Organize with Precision for an Efficient Office Relocation

builders working on London house renovations

An efficient relocation demands thorough planning. Here are a few steps to make your move seamless:

  • Devise a comprehensive list of tasks, each with a timeline on how long the moving should take and specific notes.
  • Assign tasks to employees, outlining clear responsibilities.
  • Regularly track the progress of the moving process.

3. Mastering Office Inventory Management for Relocation

loading van for office relocation services

A well-maintained inventory list helps streamline the relocation and reduce the cost of the move. Here are some tips:

  • Create an inventory list for each room, desk, or department.
  • Encourage everyone to discard unnecessary items, reducing clutter.
  • Make sure to update your inventory even under pressure, as chaos tends to escalate closer to moving day.

4. Label for Ease in Coordinating Office Moves

office

After compiling your inventory, categorize items into labelled boxes. This will greatly simplify your unpacking process during your office relocation.

  • Assign a unique number to each box and describe its contents.
  • Print this information and affix it to the respective box.

This labelling strategy ensures quick access to required items, especially in your new office where you may be surrounded by piles of unopened boxes.

5. The Value of Professional Moving Services in Managing Office Transitions

office move van

Finally, hiring professional moving company can be a worthwhile investment. Expert movers not only supply necessary materials like boxes and labels but also provide invaluable advice. Here’s why this can be beneficial:

  • It keeps your employees focused on their roles instead of packing and moving.
  • Professional movers have expertise in handling delicate items.
  • They can provide tips on efficient packing strategies.

Successful office move management, including how to manage an office move effectively, is based on strategic planning, thorough inventory management, and the potential assistance of professional movers. With these tips in hand, you’re well on your way to a stress-free relocation.

Temporary structure

Understanding the Factors Affecting Scaffolding Costs in London

Are you planning a construction or renovation project that will take place in London? You need to budget the costs associated with scaffolding. I will help you out to budget it. You will learn to understand the factors that influence the costs of your project. In this cost guide, we’ll explore the key elements that impact scaffolding costs in London and provide insights on how to make an informed decision when hiring scaffolding services.

erected scaffolding on high street of London

Factors Affecting Scaffolding Costs

1. Length of Hire

The duration of the scaffolding hire is a primary factor affecting the overall cost. Standard hiring periods usually last 6 to 8 weeks, with a set rate for this timeframe. However, extending the hire beyond this period will likely incur additional weekly charges. It’s crucial to understand the potential costs of extended hires before committing to a scaffolding company.

2. Height Requirements

The required height of the scaffolding directly impacts the cost, as greater heights necessitate more materials. Additionally, if the scaffolding is located in an alleyway or partially on public land, it may further increase the expense.

3. Location and Accessibility

Scaffolding costs tend to be higher in larger cities like London compared to smaller towns, as urban areas are generally more expensive. Moreover, the accessibility of the site can also influence the cost. Quotes are typically lower for sites where scaffolding companies can assemble the frame quickly and easily.

4. Number of Walking Levels

large scaffolding structure

The number of walking levels required also affects the scaffolding cost. For instance, a single walking level and lift may suffice for roof work, while a house painting project may require at least two walking levels. Each additional level contributes to the overall cost.

5. Restriction of Public Access

If the scaffolding obstructs a public road or pathway, a license from the local council is necessary. These licenses can be expensive, so it’s essential to factor them into your budget. Licensing costs may vary depending on the council.

6. Special Requirements

Scaffolding costs may increase if your project demands special accommodations, such as gaps for driveways or uneven ground. Make sure the company you choose has the experience and expertise to erect scaffolding according to your unique requirements.

7. Ease of Access

The accessibility of the site plays a significant role in determining the cost. If the scaffolding is needed in a hard-to-reach area, the costs will likely increase.

Sources:

Budgeting your project

Item Estimated Cost
Scaffolding Hire £182 per day
To Purchase a scaffold £2,00
Tower Assembly £240
Conservatory Scaffolding £530 per week
Gutter Repair Scaffolding £350 per week
Chimney Scaffolding £531 per week
Labour £255
Scaffold erection under construction

Tips for Choosing the Right Scaffolding Company

To ensure you choose the best scaffolding company for your needs, consider the following:

  • Request quotes from multiple companies to compare costs and services.
  • Check online reviews and testimonials to gauge the company’s reputation.
  • Verify the company’s experience and expertise in handling projects similar to yours.
  • Ensure they have the necessary licenses and insurance coverage.
  • Discuss any special requirements or concerns before finalizing a contract.

The average cost of scaffolding in London is £800. The price varies depending on several factors, including the length of hire, height requirements, location, accessibility, walking levels, public access restrictions, and special requirements. By understanding these factors and carefully selecting the right scaffolding company, you can ensure a successful project while staying within your budget.

outdoor patio house extension

Things to Know about House Extensions

House extension is a major construction undergoing. It is one of those things that takes a lot of planning and requires expertise. The contractor who does this type of work needs to have the skills to pull it off. They need to have proof of concept, they need to be able to show you examples of their work. You need to have faith through proof that they can do this type of job. It is not going to be cheap but that does not mean that it has to be crazy expensive. The right contractor for the job will match expertise with good prices.

Obtaining Building Permits

modern dining room house extension

When it comes to house extensions you have to know the law. In many places you have to obtain the correct building permits to do a home extension. You also have to take your neighbors right into account. In some jurisdictions, you can be sued or prevented from doing a home extension if it blocks the light, nature paths, and other easements from your neighbors.

Find Contractors that Adheres to Building Codes

house extension london

So you need to know the laws, you need a contractor who will pay attention to the law and you need to do your due diligence before going ahead with a project like this. Finding reliable builders is crucial, as these builders will take all of that into account to get you what you want. They will not ignore the law, they will not be lazy and do things that do not go along with the local building codes and they will as much protect you as they protect themselves legally.

Expanding and Improving your Home’s Space

living room house extension

The great side about home extensions is that you improve your home, you get more space, you get a brand-new part of your home and it is a great way to give more life to an old home. It is a great way to provide more space for a growing family or to take in an aging parent. Many great things come with doing home extensions but you must do your due diligence. You can’t get caught up on the emotional side of getting what you want and ignoring the legal side. All of it is very much important.

Those are all the things that the right contractor for a construction project, whether home extensions or loft conversions, will do for you. So, as you can see it makes sense to take your time to find the right contractor for the job. The right contractor will make or break your project.

Luckily, by mistake or by planning, by reading this article you have found the right contractor for the job or at least learned how to choose contractors. We have been doing home extensions for over a decade, we understand all of the legal implications, follow all local building codes, and do things the right way. If you’re looking for the right contractor for the job, contact us. We will be able to give you what you want while following the law, or using expert design and construction techniques and at a very good price. We know what we’re doing and we would love to help you.

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reading nook loft conversion

The Top Reasons To Consider A Loft Conversion For Your Home

Do you have unused attic space? If so, you may want to consider turning that space into additional living space for your home. A loft conversion can convert this otherwise unused space into extra square footage that you can use for just about any purpose that you can imagine.

Whether you want to add an additional bedroom, create an art studio, or simply add more space, converting your attic is one of the easiest and most affordable options. Here are some of the top reasons why you should consider a loft conversion for your home:

Increase your Home’s Resale Value

modern loft conversion

Adding square footage can increase the resale value of your home. By adding more usable space to your home, you can also increase its value. In many cases, you can even recoup the cost of the renovations when it comes time to sell your home. This makes it a great long-term investment.

Adding Extra Rooms

bedroom loft conversion

There is no need to take up yard space. Adding a traditional addition like house extensions to your home can eat up a lot of your outdoor space. By converting your attic, on the other hand, you can get extra room in your home without needing to increase the overall footprint of your house. This can allow you to continue to enjoy your yard and garden while still giving you the room that you need.

More Affordable than Traditional Home Additions

spacious loft conversion

Loft conversion tends to be more affordable than traditional home additions. When you are converting an attic, much of the structure is already in place. This is in contrast to building an addition from the ground up. Because you need fewer supplies and materials for the conversion process, these types of renovations are often less expensive than adding to your home. You just need to do a thorough search for great builders near your area.

As you can see, there are many compelling reasons why you may want to consider converting your unused attic space. Of course, not every attic can be converted. You need to have adequate headroom to stand upright in the space. If you aren’t sure whether or not your attic is a good candidate for this type of remodelling project, you may want to contact a builder to come in and inspect the space.

contractors working on a multi-storey house

They can determine whether or not the ceiling is high enough to make a loft conversion worthwhile. They can also provide helpful information on how you can bring light into the room and how you can maximize the space. After this initial inspection, you should have a far better idea of whether or not one of these conversions is feasible for your home.

If you do decide to go through with the project, be sure to get bids from several different contractors. That way, you can avoid overpaying for the project. Also, don’t forget to check references and view a contractor’s past work before agreeing to hire them. Ideally, you should be able to find someone who provides high-quality work at an extremely affordable price. This will allow you to get the conversion of your dreams without having to spend a fortune in the process.

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london builders working on scaffolding

How You Can Find Great Builders In Your Area

Whether you are planning a home renovation project, or you are planning on building a brand-new home for yourself, you are going to have to find builders that will be able to take on your job. The right builders will work hard to ensure that your project is completed on time.

If your goal is to find the best builders in your area, then there are several things that you ought to consider. These tips will help you to find the best builders that are in your area.

Ask For Recommendations

builders working on London house renovations

It’s likely that you know at least a few people who have had to hire a contractor or a team of builders for a project. Make a point of reaching out to some of these people! See if they can provide you with any recommendations. Ask people who had some work done to their houses, like house extensions or roof tiling, just to name a few.

If you can get input and feedback from people that you know and trust, finding builders should be easy for you. Talk to everyone you can. There’s no such thing as too much information.

Research Your Options

contractors working on a multi-storey houseTry to take a closer look at all of the different builders that work in your area. See what kind of things you can learn about them. Research their area of expertise, whether are they more versed with house renovations or loft conversions, and ask about their portfolio of previous projects. It’s a good idea to see how long builders have been operating. If a team of builders has been working in your area for a long time, that’s an excellent sign.

You should find out more about any licensing that the builders have, as well as any commendations that they have received. You may also want to check to see if any complaints have been filed against them. You can usually find this kind of information on the website of the Better Business Bureau.

Meet With Several Builders

builders working on a roof

You should try to set up meetings with several different builders. These meetings can benefit you in a number of ways. First of all, they will give you a chance to talk to builders so that you can ask them some questions. Secondly, these meetings will give you a sense of what the builders themselves are like.

If your project is going to take a while, then you are going to be spending a great deal of time with the builders that you hire. If you can’t get along with them, then it is better for you to find that out now. If there are several builders that you are interested in working with, you may want to set up phone meetings first. Once those meetings have been completed, you can set up face-to-face meetings with your top contenders.

After you have met with every builder that you are considering, you will be able to make your final decision. Regardless of your location, there are probably some very talented builders who work with people in your area. If you have a job and need help from some skilled builders, then you should start doing your research now. After all, this isn’t a choice that you will want to rush!Save