This development has come about as a result of clients asking us to extend our services, most likely because they see the benefits that result from the package of works not being split up.

In a project where multiple contractors are engaged, tasks can become bloated and time consuming.  Each process can become prolonged and delay the project before it has even got started as every element has to be duplicated for each contractor. From reviewing multiple pre-qualifying questionnaires to analysing the different design solutions, the steps in the procurement process must be carried out multiple times.

Streamlining project management

Once the project is underway, the project manager could have multiple individual budgets to oversee and contractors to manage, adding more stress to an already stressful role. Having the capability to access a more complete solution offers a much more streamlined approach in terms of project management. This should save time on liaising with multiple points of contact, having to manage every individual elements of a project and even co-ordinating between the different sub-contractors if there is a change to schedule or design.

Another benefit is that there is a clear definition of responsibility and accountability as there is a single point of contact for the whole envelope solution. At Eden Facades, we also believe that having this helps to build beneficial relationships as it allows us to offer a more personal service through consistent contact.

Preventing issues

A need to reschedule works or provide work-arounds is often more likely to occur when the package of works is split into smaller contracts.  We have found over the years that preceding trades often have a different idea of how to progress their works to assist us with ours.  For example, on a recent project where we were engaged to install lightweight steel framing and insulated rendering, the window installation carried on around the building floor by floor rather than elevation by elevation.  Rendering works generally need to be installed across a complete elevation after all windows have been installed, so in this case, our rendering works were held up from starting, causing a delay to the overall program and a concertina to our works program.

Perhaps a more joined up approach that results from a full solution being delivered by one company might be a better solution.

Improving cost effectiveness

Using one contractor can streamline not only your project management, but also your budget.

Delays can be extremely costly, sometimes with wide-reaching implications. Having one envelope contractor means they are able to look at the whole scope of their involvement and see the impact of actions across the project. If they need to, they can bring in additional workforce to speed elements up, or twin-track several elements so that the schedule remains unchanged.

Using a single contractor can also provide cost savings when it comes to product. In appropriate circumstances, they may be able to add benefit by suggesting alternative products or solutions which can then be fed back to the architect. Experienced installers have hands-on knowledge of multiple systems and this can translate to savings in time and money and, in some cases, provide innovative solutions to problems.

Building Envelope Service

Now, with the introduction of our new windows and curtain walling solution, which sits alongside our existing services, we can finally deliver a full envelope building solution for our customers. Using products such as Schuco, Kawneer, Reynears, SAPA and Velfac, we will undertake design, supply and installation of the whole windows and curtain walling solution.

When using Eden Facades, you get the benefit of working with a multi-disciplined company with over 70 years combined expertise within the facades industry, coupled with a high level of personal service. At the end of a project, we like to look back and say ‘we did a good job’ – and we’d like to bring that kind of commitment to your next project.