If you live on a farm, chances are good that you’re no stranger to construction projects. Whether building a new chicken coop or repairing an old barn, there’s always something to be done. And if you’re not careful, construction projects can quickly get out of hand. Here are six tips to help you stay on track (and within budget) when undertaking a construction project on your farm.
Know your budget
One of the most crucial construction tips to keep in mind when building on a farm is your budget. Before you begin any project, ensure that you have a clear understanding of the estimated total cost of materials, labor, and additional fees to ensure that you stay within your predetermined spending restrictions. For instance, you may intend to build a pole barn. In this case, the cost of a pole building, on average, can range from about $4,000 to upwards of $45,000. Knowing this information beforehand can help you plan accordingly and adjust your budget. To create an accurate cost analysis, include all expected expenditures plus an additional 10% buffer for unexpected costs. Having a good handle on your budget before beginning construction will give you peace of mind and help ensure that the project stays on track financially.
Have a plan
Before attempting any construction project on a farm, it is essential to do careful planning and research. Having an overall idea of the scope and size of the project and knowing which materials are needed are crucial steps toward success. Knowing the regulations for building in your area can also help to keep things running smoothly so that problems can be prevented before they arise. Taking measurements and drawing up plans can help ensure that you are finishing the job correctly, and visualizing it before starting is highly recommended. An organized approach to any construction projects on the farm will save time and money in the long run.
Consider the weather
During the summer months, plan any outdoor building or repair work accordingly lest your newly-laid foundation is melted away by summer downpours. Winter months can bring snow and ice, so it’s wise to plan around this to ensure adequate time for concrete curing. Additionally, high gusts of wind could make outdoor constructions like fences and barns unsafe, so be sure to plan your projects with additional safety in mind. Living on a farm demands adaptation, but by considering its erratic weather beforehand, you can remain one step ahead of nature.
Use quality materials
Poorly made materials may save money in the short-term, but over time degrade and often cause further problems like increased replacement costs, health risks from toxins, and even structural damage. Quality building products can help ensure that your home stands the test of time without incurring extra costs. They will also maintain their resilience no matter how extreme the weather or difficult it is to clean and maintain them. Quality products are more sustainable, last longer, and perform better than conventional materials – so when building on a farm, never compromise with poor quality.
Prepare the right tools.
If you’re planning to build something on your farm, the first step is getting the right tools. Whether you need hand-powered or powered devices, it’s essential to research and choose the best equipment, given your budget and goals. For example, a drill will be much more helpful if you’re building a storage shed than a Sawzall. Additionally, regardless of what type of tools you purchase, make sure to invest in good quality items, so you don’t end up with any costly surprises later down the line.
Get the help of the experts.
Regarding construction on a farm, relying on experts is vital. Hiring experienced contractors who know and understand the terrain, climate, materials available, and other local conditions can make all the difference when building on a farm. They can help ensure that the job runs smoothly and is high-quality. Furthermore, their experience may come in handy for sourcing locally-sourced materials for construction projects, as well as providing advice about alternative building techniques that are optimal for harsh climates or land characterized by steep grades or other unique features. Utilizing the wisdom of experts can help maximize efficiency and leave you with a construction project that lasts and stands up to nature’s most extreme tests.
Completing your home improvement project can be very rewarding – until something goes wrong. Save yourself the headache by preparing and budgeting for any potential problems ahead of time. If you use quality materials from the start, you won’t have to worry about things falling apart a few months down the road. Have a solid plan before beginning construction, and always consult with experts when in doubt. Following these simple tips will set yourself up for success and avoid costly mistakes.
