Depending on the type of finish that you want, the last stage of a construction project gives the building style and helps to personalize the design. There are many types of finishes and the choice of which of the finishes to use depends on a variety of factors. Cost is certainly a major consideration, but other factors include the preference of the owner, aesthetics, and even the local weather which will determine the comfort level of a home. A good example of the latter is when it comes to floor finishes. Many people in cold areas shy away from using ceramic times on the floor due to the fact that they tend to be cold. In such circumstances, homeowners may prefer other warmer alternatives such as wood. When considering finishes in construction, it is important to consider the following.
Desired Aesthetics
These will vary from project to project as people have different preferences. The key thing when it comes to aesthetics is to ensure that the project owner understands how the final result will look like. As a project manager, you may need to develop models right at the start that give them a visual idea of the final look of the building. This way, you are able to manage expectations and ensure that you get a satisfied client.
Cost
This is another factor to keep in mind when selecting a finish. This should also be discussed right at the start of the project to ensure that it does not bring about project delays at the last stage of the project. When considering costs, it is important for project managers to ensure that their clients understand that costs include maintenance costs as well as the initial construction costs. While the project manager may not be involved in the former, it is good client management practice to ensure that the client understands the long-term cost implications of the choices that they make. That being said, there are several types of finishes that are commonly used.
Plastering
This is where the surface is covered with a material such as cement mortar, composite mortar, or lime mortar. Plastering is cost-effective and can help cover defective areas on the surfaces. Apart from being relatively inexpensive, plastering is also used to prime the surface for other decorative finishes that may be applied later.
Painting
This is where paint is applied to the surface or on structures such as metal to improve their aesthetics. Just like plastering, painting a surface will also protect it from the elements and ensure that it stays strong. Painting is also relatively inexpensive and given the broad range of colors, offers many options for the personalization of any project. Paint can be applied on many types of surfaces, further increasing its versatility.
Varnishing
This is the application of varnish on a surface in order to improve its aesthetics as well as give it other properties that help to improve functionality. Varnish is applied to structures such as wooden decks and other surfaces. It helps to make the deck look better but also helps to protect the surface from damage by UV rays and water.
