Before we answer this question, let’s first explore some of the key differences between commercial and industrial construction projects.
Industrial structures are designed first and foremost for the production and distribution of goods. They must maintain appropriate safety and health standards both for the workers and the surrounding environment. Access is typically restricted from the general public, and aesthetics take a back seat to raw efficiency. Commercial areas, meanwhile, tend to prioritize the quality of human experience. In these structures, more emphasis is placed on appearance, amenities, and general comfort.
While zoning rules may officially designate a structure one way or another, many buildings fall somewhere between these two ideas in practice. For example, industrial buildings are sometimes repurposed as office spaces. While this may not represent a forward-facing business, it’s still imperative to keep the office workers comfortable, healthy, and productive. Other businesses rely on a mixture of approaches on the same premises. A winery, for instance, may wish to design its industrial spaces with tours in mind, without sacrificing any functionality.
Understanding this, you can see how it’s not just possible, but oftentimes necessary and desirable for a mechanical contractor to have experience with both types of projects.
Code Compliance
In addition to the direct needs of the business, different classifications of structures bring different building code requirements along with them. Codes also vary considerably between legal jurisdictions, sometimes even between neighboring cities. While this may encourage independent contractors to specialize somewhat, larger teams often retain the expertise necessary to handle multiple regulatory frameworks.
When shopping for contractors, it’s important to remember that compliance isn’t just a matter of ticking off a series of boxes. Codes specify the minimum requirement, not necessarily what is best for your specific situation. You’re looking to maximize the returns on the structure for years or even decades to come. That takes more than adhering to a list of rules in a book; it requires a creative perspective combined with a broad base of knowledge and experience.
A skilled team of contractors can help you achieve the right balance between the functional, regulatory, and human needs of your business. Here at O.C. McDonald’s, we pride ourselves on delivering this level of service to our clients. Call us today at 408-295-2182 and discover what we can do for you.