Roy Lewis

Upgrading your commercial space, whether it is big or small, may seem financially troublesome for many business owners. The thought of having contingencies and last-minute expenses is what stops most from considering construction on a commercial space. Luckily, we are here to tell you that you can still get the commercial space of your dreams by sticking to your budget. Let’s begin by pinpointing some ways you can administer a budget so that you can start your project in no time.

Look at how much space you can afford now

Begin by setting a budget for your construction project based on how much space you can afford now, not the other way around. If you begin with the mindset that you have to start from the ground-up within one time period, then you will most likely push the project back or simply overspend. By looking at what space needs the investment or improvement the most, you can plan out details such as knowing how much square footage and how much material is needed to cover that area. This way, you are being realistic about what you want versus what you need now and what can be done later to achieve your overall results in the end.

Ask yourself three questions: Expand? Remodel? Or Build?

Once you have figured out how much space you can afford, you can begin to evaluate if an area should be expanded, remodeled or built from the ground-up. These types of construction will vary. For example, you may want to remodel an outdated space, but some old pipes may need to be replaced along the process. Do the math, and you find out you are spending way more than what you anticipated. We recommend looking at all possible options and figuring out which construction type is best. Roy Lewis Construction can give you better insight as to what will work for your commercial space so that it fits your budget as well as provide you with an estimate and timeline.

Hire companies that work with budget software programs

Construction companies that keep their client’s budgets in mind will work vigorously to make their commercial space dream possible. At Roy Lewis Construction, we are happy to work with budgeting software programs that help by applying estimating skills to conditions such as tracking man-hours, materials, setbacks and location variables. All of these factors play a big role in your budget and the timeline of your construction project. We take into account all of the possible variables that go into your budget so that there are no surprises. We also work to give competitive budgets to the best of our ability.

Since our inception in 1984, Roy Lewis Construction has been focused on commercial and residential construction projects along the Gulf Coast. Roy Lewis Construction has an excellent reputation for delivering unparalleled value and quality on projects. Call us today for an estimate by calling 251-380-0000 or email us at paul@roylewisconstruction.com.

The number one thing your employees will notice is how their work environment is laid out. You want them to feel comfortable with ample space, rather if it is through cubicles in an office or conference rooms during meetings. We can help create the perfect floor plan for your commercial needs with the help of our commercial construction plans and experienced contractors.

Stay on track with a budget

Like any project, you will want to stay on track with a budget. Figuring out your means as far as square footage, costs for materials, time, etc. will help while working towards your commercial construction project. We offer budgeting software that helps us maintain control by using a single-tier so that your mind is at ease knowing you are paying the right price. Delivery time is also taken into account because we know your project deadlines need to be met for construction plans to run smoothly.

Find the right structure/design

Once you have an idea about your budget, you will want to implement the right structure for your commercial construction. Are you planning on designing from the ground up? Or are you remodeling? Maybe you just want to add additional space to a preexisting structure. Whatever structure you choose will give you an idea of what type of design you can anticipate. Make it a space you will love and a space which your employers will also get to enjoy on an everyday basis.

Get started with the right contractors

Creating the perfect floor plan means getting started with the right contractors. You have a business that needs special attention with limited delivery time and less time to make crucial mistakes. If you do not trust your contractors to do the right job, you will risk losing money no matter how small or big your desired commercial space may be. Luckily, at Roy Lewis Construction, we are able to proudly provide with you experienced laborers and employees that abide by safety procedures while making exceptional commercial construction projects.

Get started today on your perfect floor plan for your commercial space with commercial construction. Whether it’s a school, restaurant or office building, we are here to help you from the beginning to the end as we stand by our philosophy of expertise in services you won’t find anywhere else. Roy Lewis Construction is your resource for leading commercial construction.

Since our inception in 1984, Roy Lewis Construction has been focused on commercial and residential construction projects along the Gulf Coast. Roy Lewis Construction has an excellent reputation for delivering unparalleled value and quality on projects. Call us today for an estimate by calling 251-380-0000 or email us at paul@roylewisconstruction.com.

Your project is time and budget worthy. So, you hire a contractor to manage the work for you. Not to mention all of the sub-contractors putting in hard work to make the design plan come to life. But when all else fails, your contractor may have made these five common mistakes along the way. Learn what they are and how to avoid them.

1. Giving High Quotes

Before hiring your contractor, make sure you have done your research about the type of project you want done/material estimates and gotten multiple quotes from different firms. Choose the one that has the best-known reputation, and has been up and running with years of experience. Some contractors may want to take advantage of the price they set without actually being licensed. Also take into account labor costs and discuss all details beforehand.

2. Not letting the client know about contingencies

Estimates made towards what the budget will be are not always be set in stone. That is because unexpected things can come up, such as a pipe bursting or weather delays. Remember to talk in-depth with your contractor about all contracts/insurance plans on their end, and ask any questions/concerns without hesitation. Your contractor may speak to you about an allowance budget for any sudden changes made towards your fixed rate. Be open-minded about possible setbacks, but be aware of your deadlines as well.

3. Not collecting the right payments

You and your contractor will talk about payments made towards your project. The obvious word of advice is to never pay in full. You will want to make payments halfway through the project, and pay the rest in full once the project is complete. This type of agreement will benefit the two of you and can go both ways. For example, say you checked on your project mid-way and were not satisfied. Communicate this to your contractor until the issue is fixed; otherwise, your contractor has an idea you will not want to pay the full amount if it is not done accordingly to you and what your contract states.

4. Disregarding OSHA

A vital safety procedure the contractor should take on is to follow OSHA. The last thing you want is a lawsuit, or for your project to get shut down by the state. Make sure all safety procedures and proper training are set out towards sub-contractors. Everyone’s safety is on the line, so be sure the right people are hired for the right job.

5. No written documents provided

Even if the contractor you decide to take on your project has years of experience, always make sure you both sign written contracts/documents. This will ensure that you both know details about the job without the contractor stating everything through exchanged conversations.

If you need help navigating your project, our experts are here to help guide you through our design services that are guaranteed to deliver superior results.

Since our inception in 1984, Roy Lewis Construction has been focused on commercial and residential construction projects along the Gulf Coast. Roy Lewis Construction has an excellent reputation for delivering unparalleled value and quality on projects. Call us today for an estimate by calling 251-380-0000 or email us at paul@roylewisconstruction.com

Before construction on your project starts, there are a few things you should consider and be made aware of. While we always hope for a seamless and smooth construction process, we’ve been in the business long enough to know that isn’t always the case. Read below for a few things you should be aware of and risks you should consider before construction starts.

Costs
Building or redesigning a location will always be expensive. There are many different ways to effectively cut costs but, in the long run, a lot of money will be spent no matter what. Once construction begins, there is always the possibility of running into problems that weren’t planned into the budget. There could be a shortage of material, you may need more workers, there might have to be more work done or you could change your mind on a design. There are many possibilities and many outcomes that could affect your budget. That is one thing that will always be true during construction; it probably won’t be as easy to get to the end goal as you think, but Roy Lewis Construction is here to help you in any way we can.

Schedule
While, in the beginning, a schedule will be made and will hopefully be adhered to, it is very easy to get behind. There are many outside factors in construction that you can not have control over that could throw you off schedule. Sometimes the truck carrying the material is late, the weather doesn’t cooperate or you run into an unforeseen issue. Hopefully, these factors won't knock you off schedule too bad, but it is still a risk to consider. If you’re on too tight of a schedule for a project, maybe you should move your start day up, so any delays won’t be as worrisome.

Design
Most people who are considering building or redesigning a space have an idea of the design they want. This is good because it gives us creative ideas of where to start and what direction to go in. Although, some designs will not correlate over well or could be out of the budget. This is always something to consider. While expectations will obviously be there, it is best to know that expectations can change as the project changes. Within construction there are many ways to get a design done. So, there will be many ways to get what you envision to come to life, and at Roy Lewis Construction that is our main goal for you.

The Market
While things within the construction market don’t change that often, the markets associated with the construction one are ever changing. Is it a good time for commercial construction, if your business is just starting out? Is it a good time to move your business? Is it a good time to sell a house, if you’re building to sell? The real estate market is often changing and definitely has times when it’s better than others. Timing is a big factor for construction. So, if you believe the time is right for you, then give us a call so we can start your project.

Since our inception in 1984, Roy Lewis Construction has been focused on commercial and residential construction projects along the Gulf Coast. Roy Lewis Construction has an excellent reputation for delivering unparalleled value and quality on projects. Call us today for an estimate by calling 251-380-0000 or email us at paul@roylewisconstruction.com.

If you are feeling inspired or have been saving for that long awaited remodeling project, we have all the tools and tips you need. Start the new year right with these helpful remodeling tips for your business or restaurant. Get the plan, design and budget you want while investing in a home or business you will love more than ever before.

Know Your Budget
Remodeling might sound like an exciting time since you get to have your place up and running looking just how you envisioned it. But when it comes to thinking about how much money you will spend, you might start to have second thoughts about burning a big hole in your pocket. Luckily, we offer estimated and planning services so you can be in the know for all your construction project needs. By knowing your budget, you will have the confidence and control to move forward with any or all remodeling in a single tier. That way, the builder is not losing money, and you aren’t overpaying for it due to our competitive price market. We are committed to creating while understanding all your needs.

Get Required Permits/Policies Out of the Way
Now that you have your budget planned, it is time to get the required permits and policies out of the way. Not only will the documents help protect your project from violating any legal city, district and county specifications and codes, but it will also help you get started on remodeling faster. This means our laborers will be able to get a set time on when to start work, and you can feel at ease knowing inspections will plan out accordingly. Time frames are an essential part of staying within code, so with the proper permits, your remodeling project will be off to a safe start.

Use Sustainable Material
It would be best if you never regretted the upgrades you made for your business/restaurant because you did not make the right choice in material. We suggest you choose sustainable materials such as energy-efficient and non-toxic textiles/insulations so that you can save on future costs. Your facility should be a safe environment from the ground up. Our design services, along with quality control, help you achieve those goals. We look at the fine details and go over them with you throughout the planning process and throughout construction as well. By working together, we can recommend the type of design and remodeling material to fit around eco-friendly features, recyclable waste and keep structures/beams protected.

If you need help navigating your project, our experts are here to help guide you through our design services that are guaranteed to deliver superior results.

Since our inception in 1984, Roy Lewis Construction has been focused on commercial and residential construction projects along the Gulf Coast. Roy Lewis Construction has an excellent reputation for delivering unparalleled value and quality on projects. Call us today for an estimate by calling 251-380-0000 or email paul@roylewisconstruction.com.

At Roy Lewis Construction, your project is our calling. Whether it is a general commercial facility for your company, interior commercial or tenant build-outs, we have the experience and track record any client would be happy to notice. We may not be the largest construction company in Mobile, but we are known for providing superior construction services for many reasons.

Your Vision is Important to Us
It all begins with what you as the client see in your vision. We help you make your project come to life by taking you through the necessary steps/services that fit your needs, including schematic planning, preliminary design and structural design. If it begins from the ground-up, we have the architects and the constructors to deliver impeccable results. If you only want to expand, we will work with what you have and make changes as necessary. In the end, we want your vision to become a reality.

Budget-Friendly Competitive Budgets
Many of our clients choose Roy Lewis Construction because we offer competitive prices to stay within your budget. Our goal is to deliver speed, efficiency and cost control to bring you a single-tier project. The quality of the materials and work put forth into every single project is why we rely on our long-time subcontractors to do the same as, if not better than, what the market shows. Not to mention our easy budget process offers transferability with communication on estimates, details such as location variables and finalized estimates on project documents. We want you to be in the know and encourage you to do your research when it comes to estimates with other firms as well.

On-Time Construction
Deadlines are always a must, and your time is valuable to us. With the help of our reliable contractors and skilled laborers, we are not only committed to delivering on time but also to discuss any setbacks far beyond starting the project. We have established a process called streamline project coordination that includes an on-hand plan and a detailed project so that everything can run smoothly.

On-Hand Construction Management
We could not pass up the opportunity to represent your project as a CM-Agent or CM-At Risk. Our unique service of on-hand construction management gives owners the freedom to rely on our assurance on reports, compliance of policies and procedures, overseeing and managing agreements, plus so much more for a worry-free step-by-step process. We ease off some of the work for you and even hire staff and skilled laborers as needed.

If you need help navigating your project, our experts are here to help guide you through our design services that are guaranteed to deliver superior results.

Since our inception in 1984, Roy Lewis Construction has been focused on commercial and residential construction projects along the Gulf Coast. Roy Lewis Construction has an excellent reputation for delivering unparalleled value and quality on projects. Call us today for an estimate by calling 251-380-0000 or email us at paul@roylewisconstruction.com.

Having trouble deciding on rather you should expand, remodel or build? Let us help you decide on your construction needs with these tips that will help you consider important aspects such as load-bearing capacity, basic standards and the type of material you want to use.

Weigh Out the Costs
Though you may want to save money during the construction process, remember that the benefits will outweigh the costs in the long run. Should you have a budget, always reconsider the investment you are going to make, including the type of material you want to use. For example, if a building requires remodeling but has too many old wirings and plumbing, you may want to kill two birds with one stone and start the building process altogether to avoid any fires/risks. On the other hand, if the building is up to date with the necessary foundation, then the remodeling process would be your best option. Also, don’t be afraid to expand your business/facility, especially if you are aware of your market is in good standing.

Consider Your Timeframe and Limitations
You may be stuck in a dilemma where your business is still up and running, so closing down for construction is not ideal. In this case, expanding on the other side of the building would give you the flexibility to make a profit while investing in more land. If you are starting from the bottom up, sometimes remodeling may take longer than building since demolition is another process in itself. If you are in no rush, then restoration might fit your needs. However, choosing to build allows you to make the structural alterations you need or want.

Structure is Everything
Before construction can even begin, knowing what type of structure (substructure and superstructure) you have/need is essential for building. If you want to expand, inspection and approval must first be met due to support of levels and other construction standards. Environmental factors also play a role in the process, so it is important to know what type of construction/structure you’re going to build. Things like the application of steel frame structure are recommended for high-rise, residential and industrial buildings due to load-bearing capacities. Older buildings tend to have an architecture that is valuable, such as crown molding or pillars that add character, so you may want to expand your structure rather than taking it down completely to remodel.

If you need help navigating your project, our experts are here to help guide you through our design services that are guaranteed to deliver superior results.

Since our inception in 1984, Roy Lewis Construction has been focused on commercial and residential construction projects along the Gulf Coast. Roy Lewis Construction has an excellent reputation for delivering unparalleled value and quality on projects. Contact us today for an estimate by calling 251-380-0000 or email us at paul@roylewisconstruction.com.

The first thing anyone will see is the front-facing framework of your building. With facade design, you can capture everyone’s attention with the right look for your building and business. Add character to the exterior of your building and business with these helpful tips.

It Reflects the Interior Space
The front facade also reflects the construction of the interior space. Facade design is important for this reason because many businesses want to create an inviting space from the outside-in.
Lighting and space are big factors in how a building’s exterior facade can affect the look and feel of a building’s interior.

Choose Material That Fits Your Style
From wood to textured brick, there are many styles of facade material to choose form. Fiber cement for exterior cladding adds a sophisticated and modern look, while metal material such as copper can be arranged to make a timeless three-dimensional pattern. Another trending material is mirrored panels, which are most commonly seen in the city, but can also be used for professional facilities to reflect architectural surroundings and nature.

It’s All About the Pattern
Different shingle systems add an arrangement of patterns that can be uniquely tailored to your desired look. Go for geometric shapes and origami patterns for intricate design or choose a stretched mesh design for an interlaced look. Remember that color is also a great way to create a dynamic appearance and fluent arrangement. You can also choose to add arches or enclosures, as seen in stores or restaurants.

Add a Finish for the Final Touch
The material you choose for the design has a lot to do with the type of finish you select for the aesthetic you want your business to have. For example, a copper-embossed sheet will give the building a translucent and gleaming effect, while concrete cladding will provide you with a clean, matte look. Glass layouts add openness and natural lighting, which are great for an office space finish. Consider the type of business you have and the overall design you want it to represent. We help create facade designs for paneling and all kinds of the cladding material for the perfect final project.

If you need help navigating your project, our experts are here to help guide you through our design services that are guaranteed to deliver superior results.

Since our inception in 1984, Roy Lewis Construction has been focused on commercial and residential construction projects along the Gulf Coast. Roy Lewis Construction has an excellent reputation for delivering unparalleled value and quality on projects. Call us today for an estimate by calling 251-380-0000 or email us at paul@roylewisconstruction.com

If you require professionals handling your construction project from start to finish, then look no further than the design services offered by Roy Lewis Construction. Our team has an array of industry forces giving you speed, efficiency and cost/quality control. Our design services provide you with planned and detailed coordination that helps with errors and scheduled deadlines. We guarantee quality control and are accountable for creating the project of your dreams while staying within your budget.

Schematic Planning
Like a blueprint, schematic planning is designed with you in mind. Its purpose is for you to have a clear vision of the physical drawing of the space. It begins with programming where you, the client, and the architect get to gather ideas about the project with things like budgeting and what the rooms will look like. The planning includes an outline of the floor plans, elevations, HVAC, plumbing and electrical. This helps clients get a feel for their vision as it translates to the next step.

Preliminary Design
Preliminary design is meant to structure a plan with details, including the materials used so that clients can give feedback right on the spot. The client then makes the selection of design into the direction they think is right. Everything is calculated from building structures to any level surfaces. The area where the building will be constructed determines how much of the lot can be given. There is also an overall cost estimate which is reviewed for any renovations and demo.

Architectural Documentation Services
Architectural designs require properly completed documentation services for construction purposes. At Roy Lewis Construction, we take care of the research needed for your detailed floor plans and everything else in between. This helps clients better understand contractors and their job duties from the beginning until the completion of their project.

Structural Design Services
Sustainability is our calling with buildings that offer ecological living. We want to create energy efficiency and combustibility controls to enhance indoor environmental quality. This is where cost-effectiveness comes in since operating and maintenance costs become lower in the long run. Therefore, the structure of the building matters concerning reducing carbon footprint. Whether it’s for commercial purposes or a residential remodel, we execute our design services to their fullest capacity.

If you need help navigating your project, our experts are here to help guide you through our design services that are guaranteed to deliver superior results.

Since our inception in 1984, Roy Lewis Construction has been focused on commercial and residential construction projects along the Gulf Coast. Roy Lewis Construction has an excellent reputation for delivering unparalleled value and quality on projects. Call us today for an estimate by calling 251-380-0000 or email us at paul@roylewisconstruction.com

Mostly what you’ll hear, when energy efficiency is concerned, focuses on different ways to conserve energy while at home. Well, what about at the office? There are many ways that coincide with the same rules for home life, but there are a few differences catered specifically to an office setting. Let’s dive into a few ways that you can contribute your share of effort towards being more energy efficient!

1. Ditch the incandescent bulbs. Switching to LED bulbs can be a quick and cheap adjustment that will save you money. LEDs use less energy than incandescent bulbs, so swapping them out can be an easy afternoon project to jumpstart your office in the right direction of savings.

2. Don’t forget to turn off the lights! Make it a habit. Any room that is not in use should not have lights burning brightly for no one to see. Think the bathroom, break room, meeting room, empty offices or supply closets. Have a stubborn employee team and extra room in the budget? Install motion sensor lights! They will automatically turn off when no one is around.

3. Turn off electronics for the night. Shutting down computers, copiers, coffee makers and all your other office must-haves can help save you big bucks. Want to take your savings to the next level? Use surge protectors. This makes it extra simple for the last person to leave to flip one switch and start saving energy in bulk. This also prevents “phantom energy” from being used. Even when things are turned off, leaving them plugged in still generates a tiny bit of power. Be a professional energy saver and unplug everything!

4. Look for the ENERGYSTAR rating. Appliances that have this rating have been guaranteed to not use as much power as its nonrated counterparts. Look before you lease or buy!

5. Take control of the thermostat. Programming can be a wonderful way to conserve energy. There is no need to cool the entire office all night in the dead of summer when there is no one there to enjoy it. Consider raising the temperature during the summer or lowering the temperature during the winter when no one is there.

6. Think about the sun! Is there just enough sun first thing in the morning or mid afternoon to light up your office with the perfect glow of natural light? Use it! Turn off your office lights for a couple of hours and enjoy it. Is the sun beating down on your office space so badly you can feel your forehead burning? Consider blackout shades or planting a tree outside the windows.These solutions can help block some of the sunlight from heating up the inside of the office and causing the AC to run unnecessarily.

Always make energy saving fun! Teach employees why changes are being made and consider offering incentives to the employees that make the most effort. Everyone loves a small reward!

Roy Lewis Construction is a general contracting, design-build and construction management company based in Mobile, Alabama. If you are looking to design an office to be more efficient, give us a call at (251) 380-0000.