Using a construction schedule template to plan out your project timeline is a great way to save time.
There’s no doubt about it, lining up all your key contractors and resources is one of the most important things you can do on a renovation project. It might seem daunting if you’re not a seasoned professional, but with a little guidance, you’ll be on top of things in no time.
The construction schedule template will help you to get down the scheduling basics. Then you can adjust the details according to discussions with each one of your chosen building contractors.
Construction Schedule Template: 3 Reasons To Use One
Having a construction schedule template is:
- Another way to help project manage your renovation and plan out all the critical tasks one by one without clashes or overlap. Great for helping you think about each stage and what you’ll need to have organised when your tradies arrive on site.
- Great for helping you think about each stage and what you’ll need to have organised when your tradies arrive on site.
- Will show you the order in which most bathroom renovations will be sequenced, and this is how I would suggest going through and finding your building contractors one by one as you work down your list.
Below is an example of what a construction schedule template looks like (note: if you’ve enrolled in the How To Renovate A Bathroom course, all these templates are included).
And here’s a video that demonstrates how to use one.
Some of the considerations when filling out your schedule for each stage of the project are as follows.
1. Site Establishment
This is the stage where you should get the project set up BEFORE any contractors arrive on site.
Your role as a builder or owner-builder include:
- installing floor protection over carpets and timber floors
- setting up skip bins for rubbish removal
- setting up a first aid kit
- any signage that may be needed to direct contractors
- setting up all safety equipment on site (gloves, dust masks, glasses, etc)
- setting up any temporary toilets if the bathroom will be out of action
During site establishment, I also book in my plumber and electrician. This is to make the work area safe. It’s also to perform disconnections for things such as water, gas and power so that the area is ready for demolition.
2. Discuss Timeframes With The Contractors
For all other items in your construction schedule template, I recommend discussing the timeframe to complete the works with the contractors.
When you engage them in the process, that way you are working within timeframes that they advise they can complete them in. So there’s no unrealistic expectations from either party.
3. Avoid Scheduling Clashes
One of the main considerations is trying to avoid a clash in your schedule where two or more contractors need to work in the bathroom at the same time.
Bathrooms are generally confined spaces, and having guys working over the top of each other can be a recipe for disaster.
Depending on the scale and size of your project, you could have a plumber come in the morning and electrician after lunch. But generally speaking, I like to book them on separate days to avoid any headaches.
4. Keep your Schedule Up-to-Date
Another consideration is to keep your schedule current. If there are any changes such as delays or over runs with a particular section of your renovation, make sure you revise your schedule to reflect this.
Once amended make sure you contact your preceding trades and advise them of any delay well in advance so they can reschedule to fit you in at a later date. Calling a contractor one or two days before they were due to start won’t cut it!
Most good contractors will have a few months’ worth of work in front of them so it may take some shuffling on their part to fit you back in.
Finally, when you’re happy with your construction schedule, give every contractor plenty of notice on their start dates. Then book it all in and get ready to watch the magic happen!
That’s about it for now. I hope you can see the benefit of using this type of template to schedule in your construction work.
If you have any questions let me know – I’m always happy to help!
Enjoy your renovation.
All the best,
James Mason
