Heavy construction and light construction are two broad categories within the construction industry, and they differ significantly in terms of the type of projects they undertake, the equipment used, and the scale of work involved. As a leader in heavy civil construction projects, our team at MAS Building & Bridge, Inc. in Norfolk, MA, has the expertise to explain the main differences between heavy and light construction. Read on to learn more!
How Are Heavy and Light Construction Different?
How Are Heavy and Light Construction Different?
Project Type and Scale
Heavy construction typically involves large-scale, complex projects that require substantial resources, machinery, and a workforce. Examples of heavy construction projects include building highways, bridges, tunnels, dams, airports, and large commercial buildings.
Light construction, on the other hand, focuses on smaller and less complex projects. This category encompasses residential construction, small commercial buildings, remodeling and renovations, landscaping, and other projects that do not require heavy machinery or extensive engineering.
Equipment Used
Due to the scale and complexity of heavy construction projects, a wide range of heavy machinery and specialized equipment is used. Excavators, bulldozers, cranes, pavers, and concrete mixers are just a few examples of heavy equipment employed in this sector.
Conversely, light construction projects often use smaller and more portable equipment. Common equipment includes hand tools like hammers, saws, drills, and small construction machinery such as mini-excavators and skid-steer loaders.
Workforce and Expertise
Heavy construction projects demand a skilled and specialized workforce, including engineers, project managers, heavy equipment operators, and other professionals with expertise in specific areas of construction. Due to the complexity of these projects, teams of professionals are often involved in various aspects of the construction process.
Light construction projects typically require a smaller team, and many tasks may be handled by general contractors or even homeowners themselves. While some specialized skills may still be required, the level of expertise needed is generally less intense than in heavy construction.
Timeframe and Cost
Heavy construction projects tend to have longer timelines and higher costs due to their complexity and scale. Planning, permitting, and executing these projects can take several years and require significant financial investment.
Alternatively, light construction projects usually have shorter timelines and lower costs compared to heavy construction. Many light construction projects, such as residential renovations, can be completed within a few weeks or months, making them more accessible for individuals and small businesses.
If you need help with a heavy construction or large-scale project near Norfolk, look no further than MAS Building & Bridge, Inc. Contact us today to learn more!