# Building construction

In project architecture and civil engineering, construction is the building or assembly of any infrastructure on a site or sites. Although this may be thought of as a single activity, in fact, construction is a feat of multitasking. Normally the job is managed by the construction manager, supervised by the project manager, design engineer or project architect. While these people work in offices, every construction project requires a large number of laborers, carpenters, and other skilled tradesmen to complete the physical task of construction.
For the successful execution of a project effective planning is essential. Those involved with the design and execution of the infrastructure in question must consider the environmental impact of the job, the successful scheduling, budgeting, site safety, availability of materials, logistics, inconvenience to the public caused by construction delays, preparing tender documents, etc.
Building construction is the process of adding structure to real property via various techniques. The vast majority of building construction projects are small renovations, such as the addition of a room, or renovation of a bathroom. Often, the owner of the property acts as a laborer, paymaster, and design team for the entire project. However, all building construction projects include some elements in common - design, financial, and legal considerations. Many projects of varying sizes reach undesirable end results, such as structural collapse, cost overruns, and/or litigations reason, those with experience in the field make detailed plans and maintain careful oversight during the project to ensure a positive outcome.
In construction, the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) is the governmental agency or subagency which regulates the construction process. In most cases, this is the municipality in which the building is located. However, construction performed for supra-municipal authorities are usually regulated directly by the owning authority, which becomes the AHJ.
During the planning of a building, the zoning and planning boards of the AHJ will review the overall compliance of the proposed building with the municipal General Plan and zoning regulations. Once the proposed building has been approved, detailed civil, architectural, and structural plans must be submitted to the municipal building department (and sometimes the public works department) to determine compliance with the building code and sometimes to fit with existing infrastructure. Often, the municipal fire department will review the plans for compliance with fire-safety ordinances and regulations.
During the construction of a building, the municipal building inspector inspects the building periodically to ensure that the construction adheres to the approved plans and the local building code. Once construction is complete and a final inspection has been passed, an occupancy permit may be issued.
An operating building must remain in compliance with the fire code. The fire code is enforced by the local fire department.
Any changes made to a building including its use, expansion, structural integrity, and fire protection items, require acceptance by the AHJ. Anything affecting basic safety functions, no matter how small they may appear, may require the owner to apply for a building permit, to ensure proper review of the contemplated changes against the building code.
Following the completion of construction and the issuance of an occupancy permit, maintaining the structural and aesthetic integrity of the building becomes paramount to ensuring its long-term value and safety. Building maintenance is a critical aspect of post-construction care, encompassing a range of activities designed to keep the infrastructure in optimal condition. Among these activities, high-rise window cleaning stands out not only for its role in preserving the building's visual appeal but also for its contribution to the overall maintenance strategy.
High-rise window cleaning, a specialized field within building maintenance, requires skilled professionals who are trained to safely navigate the exterior of buildings, often at great heights. This task is essential for several reasons: it allows for the regular inspection of the facade for damage, ensures the longevity of window materials by removing potentially corrosive substances, and enhances natural lighting, which can improve the well-being of occupants and reduce lighting costs. Furthermore, maintaining clean and clear windows is crucial for presenting a professional image, particularly in commercial buildings where first impressions can impact business relationships.
Incorporating regular, professional high-rise window cleaning into the maintenance schedule of a building is an investment in the property's future. Not only does it protect against the gradual wear and tear that can lead to costly repairs, but it also ensures compliance with safety standards and regulations, further protecting the building's occupants. Building owners and management should prioritize this aspect of maintenance, recognizing its role in the overall stewardship of their investment and its impact on the health, safety, and satisfaction of the building's users.