The construction industry comprises various contractors, each with a specialized job. Expert contractors are crucial in guiding construction projects from initial plans to finished structures.
But “contractor” refers to a wide range of jobs on a project, and these roles aren’t necessarily as clear-cut as you may expect.
Let’s explore common construction contractor types and how to select the appropriate contractor for a construction project.
What is a contractor?
A contractor is someone who provides labor or services on a construction project. They obey the terms of a contract with the project owner or another contractor to provide their labor or services. It’s an umbrella term that applies to nearly every person working on a construction job.
“Contractor” refers to the prime or general contractor in a building contract, such as a custom home builder. Although the phrase can refer to anyone operating under a contract, this is an agreement with the project owner.
Meanwhile, subcontractors hired by general contractors are a lower tier of contractors.
Also, everyone contributing labor to a project is technically a contractor unless they are employees of the property owner. It includes design professionals such as architects, designers, and engineers, who can also be considered contractors.
General contractors
The general contractor is a person or firm that directly contracts with the project owner. The role includes managing, hiring, and scheduling subcontractors, as well as overseeing operations in general.
The General Manager (GC) may be responsible for additional project aspects.
Plumber
Plumbers are responsible for the plumbing systems in construction projects. They plan and install the systems in new buildings.
These systems contain the water supply pipes to the building’s restrooms, kitchens, and utility closets, among other areas.
Other duties are installing fixtures and drains and connecting the system to the municipal wastewater system.
Carpenter
Carpenters are experts in constructing, repairing, and installing frameworks.
For example, in a residential project, they may construct countertops and cabinets within the home or be responsible for the cement structures.
While some carpenters are more generalists, others are specialists in building a particular structure.
Electrician
The residential electrical contractors are responsible for installing and operating electrical wires in homes and businesses. Since most structures need electricity to function, the electrician’s job is crucial.
To plan the installation and comprehend the arrangement, they study the building’s plans.
They install cables, service boxes, outlets, transformers, and switches—all essential parts that enable electrical conduction.
Furthermore, electricians may focus on installing alarm systems, audio-visual gadgets, and telecommunications equipment.
Painter
The painter’s primary responsibility is to apply paint to surfaces that require it, typically walls, ceilings, and trim. Painters are experts in both interior and exterior building work.
Before the painting, the painters blend paints to the right shade and cover or tape surrounding surfaces that should remain paint-free.
After painting, they regularly clean and remove any protective coverings or tapes that were previously applied.
Roofers
They focus on the installation, maintenance, and repair of roofs. It is their responsibility to guarantee that roofs are weather-resistant and safe.
