Construction Company in Poland, NY

Central New York winters are brutal on structures. We design for frost depth, specify proper subbase compaction, and use air-entrained concrete with correct water–cement ratios. Footings go below local frost lines, and slabs get insulation or vapor barriers where needed. We slope hardscapes away from foundations, add perimeter drains, and choose freeze-resistant aggregates. Skipping any of this invites heaving, cracking, and water intrusion—repairs cost far more than doing it right the first time.

Permitting varies by scope—additions, foundations, septic, driveway cuts, and retaining walls often need approvals. We prepare drawings, submit applications, schedule inspections, and coordinate with local code officers and utility locates (811). You’ll see a permit timeline and inspection milestones in writing. Cutting corners risks stop-work orders or forced demolition. We factor permit lead times into your schedule so you get realistic dates instead of optimistic guesses that fall apart.

Water is the enemy of longevity. We laser-check grades, target positive slope from foundations, and add swales, French drains, or daylighted outlets where soils demand it. Roof runoff gets piped, not just “dumped” at the foundation. For clay pockets, we improve subgrade and include geotextiles to prevent fines migration. Basements get perimeter drains and proper backfill lifts. Good drainage prevents frost heave, mold, and settlement—issues far more expensive than initial sitework done correctly.

Yes—with planning. We heat and tent concrete, use cold-weather admixtures, and maintain curing temps. Excavation proceeds if frost isn’t excessive; otherwise we pre-thaw or adjust the sequence. Asphalt waits for proper plant temps; aggregates and compaction are verified with density tests. Expect longer timelines and fuel surcharges for temporary heat. Cutting winter corners leads to spalled concrete, weak bonds, and voids—problems that emerge in spring when warranties become disputes elsewhere.

It’s not just “how many workers.” Lead times for permits, utilities, materials (trusses, windows, custom doors), and inspections dictate pace. Weather windows for earthwork and paving also matter. We provide a critical-path schedule with dependencies, float, and hold points. When supply chains wobble, we resequence tasks so crews aren’t idle—framing before siding, rough-ins before exterior finishes, etc. You’ll see cause-and-effect, not vague updates that mask slips until it’s too late.

We start with a detailed scope, alternates, and allowances with unit costs. You’ll see what’s fixed and what’s variable—rock excavation, unsuitable soils, or owner-driven changes. We issue weekly cost reports, track approved change orders, and flag allowance overages early. If value engineering helps, we present side-by-side options with lifecycle impacts, not just lower sticker prices. Surprises usually stem from unclear scope; we eliminate ambiguity before you sign.

“Dirt is dirt” is wrong. Subgrade quality, moisture content, lift thickness, and compaction testing determine whether pavements and slabs last. Skipping geotextiles, underdrains, or base stone to save a few bucks typically causes settlement and cracking. We spec materials and densities per actual loads—passenger cars, heavy trucks, or fire access. A pretty surface over a weak base is lipstick on a liability; it will fail and cost double to rebuild.

We create a traffic, noise, and dust control plan: water trucks or misting for dust, wheel-wash mats, street sweeping, and compliant start/stop hours. Deliveries avoid school bus windows and peak commutes. We place fencing and signage, coordinate dumpster swaps, and keep emergency access open. Expect proactive notices for impactful milestones—concrete pours, crane days, or road cuts. Good neighbor management reduces complaints, inspection scrutiny, and schedule delays you ultimately pay for.

Beyond “holding dirt,” engineered walls control drainage, reduce frost pressure, protect foundations, and reclaim usable yard. Modern systems with geogrid reinforcement and weep drains lower hydrostatic pressure and maintenance. We design for surcharge loads—driveways, decks, or slopes—so the wall doesn’t bow after a heavy rain or thaw. Proper walls also improve resale; appraisers notice stable grades and dry basements. DIY timber stacks rot; replacement costs dwarf doing it correctly now.

We anticipate risk with soil borings or test pits when warranted. If we hit rock, high groundwater, or organics, you’ll see a documented condition report and priced options: undercut and replace, chemical stabilization, or redesign. We don’t bury problems; we expose them early and fix them transparently. Contingency and unit-price tables in your contract prevent hostage situations. Unknowns happen; how a contractor manages them determines your final bill and schedule.