Design Build
Signature understands best the capabilities of the component products it manufactures. They were devised to serve certain needs and solve certain problems. Signature will combine these products in the most efficient manner to serve the architects design. The design operation and shop order production are performed in one company by a cooperative team. This affords the builder a better structure, by solving build-ability, code, and detail issues within a cohesive group.
Design-Build affords speed of construction. Shop drawings are finished during design development affording no gap in construction waiting for product.
Design, fabrication, and erection provide no gap, no delay, and no misunderstandings. It brings energy, speed, and momentum into the construction process when it is needed. Finishing one floor brings all the mechanical and finishing trades into the project.
Design-Build resoles cost issues before design development, which prevents surprise over- runs when design is finished. Structure is the largest hard construction cost. Having it settled allows for easier financing and prevents construction delays. Looking at the benefits, this is the only prudent way to go. top of page
Build Higher
With the Signature system owners can now build higher-density, mixed-use buildings that provide more efficient and economical residential housing. Before Signature, owners had to choose between the height constraints of wood (typically limited to 50'), and the prohibitive cost of building above that 50' threshold out of conventional steel or concrete. Light gauge as an alternative was constrained by a multitude of high value walls due to the handicaps of the weak floor systems. Signature optimizes land use by enabling higher structures to be built at a cost comparable to wood. When compared to conventional steel, or concrete, Signature delivers 4 -12 story structures at a much lower overall cost. top of page
Build for the Future
The life cycle benefits of a Signature / Vescom Structure (light gauge walls with a composite joist and concrete floors) which accrue to the owner are significant. They include: lower fire insurance ratings, stronger buildings in earthquakes and storms, higher resale value, less warrantee issues, and less water damage from plumbing leaks. Light gauge buildings do not have warping, shrinking, dry rot, mildew, termites, and other problems associated with wood. Add a significant increase in design flexibility (better more open apartments) and a Signature building becomes the best system for mid-rise residential buildings. top of page
Build Affordably
Consulting and resolving costs during early design development insures the best price for the desired design. Fast construction saves on interest, general conditions, and other carrying costs.top of page
Coordination with Other Trades
During shop drawing production all mechanical trades are coordinated with the structure by Signature. The architectural drawings are the guide used for all structural drawings. Signature will make sure that structural members do not interfere with plumbing, mechanical, electrical, or sprinkler piping, ducts, or equipment. Special construction to accommodate other trades such as special openings in trusses for large ductwork is part of the total package. Most piping is accommodated through the open web of the joists and trusses without special coordination or accommodation. top of page
Design with Flexibility
To the architect and the marketing company the word is “Design with freedom—Exercise your full creative capacity”. Signature components are designed for the issues that come up in residential construction. Signature research and development has been working with the industry leaders to create design solutions for the upscale residential marketplace. Longs span floor construction and few shear walls are for the “open loft”. Balconies, mechanical circulation, setback, duplex opening, 12 story light gauge building and other design challenges are the issues Signature is developing solutions for every day. Signature strives to be the industry leader for this marketplace. top of page
General Contractor or Construction Manager - Cost Stability and Schedule
One stop shopping for the structural shell of a building assures accountability and price stability. No items can fall between scopes.
The schedule does not depend on multiple players. Once the first elevated Signature level is poured all mechanical trades and other finishing trades can start their work. At that point the structure stops being on the critical path. top of page
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