The Importance of Capturing Milestone Moments During a Construction Project

May 3, 2024 | Construction

Drones offer a wealth of benefits for contractors, architects, engineers, and project managers. One of the unique advantages is their ability to capture high-quality aerial footage marking significant milestones in projects, such as the placement of footings, wall tilts, cement pours, roof placement, and top-off ceremonies. In this blog, we will explore the ways in which drones can be used to mark these milestones, and why they are quickly becoming an essential tool for construction professionals.

Ryan Tower last beam top-off ceremony, Plano, TX

Importance of Footing Placement in Construction

The placement of footings is a crucial step, as it lays the foundation for the entire building. As you know, ensuring that footings are placed correctly is essential to the overall stability and safety of the building. Drones can play a valuable role in documenting the placement of footings, providing an aerial view of the excavated area, the placement of the footings, and any other important details such as the depth and orientation of the footings. This footage can be used to monitor progress, identify potential issues, and make more informed decisions about future plans. In addition, footage of the footing placement can be used to confirm that the design and construction plans are being followed correctly. This is especially important when working on large or complex projects, as it can be challenging to keep track of all the details involved in such endeavors.

Documenting Wall Tilts and Precast Concrete Elements Installation

Wall tilts and precast concrete elements are common components in projects. These elements are typically prefabricated in a factory and then transported to the construction site for installation. They offer several benefits, including speed of construction, reduced costs, and enhanced structural integrity. Drones can be used to document the installation of these components, providing an aerial view of the process. This footage can be used to ensure that the walls and precast elements are installed correctly and to monitor progress. This documentation can be especially helpful for future reference in case of repairs or replacements.

Monitoring Cement Pours and Other Crucial Milestones

Cement pours are another crucial milestone, as they are a significant component of building foundations, walls, and floors. Ensuring that cement is poured correctly is essential to the stability and safety of the building. Drone footage can be used to monitor the progress of the pour, ensure that the cement is being poured evenly, and identify potential quality control issues such as air pockets or insufficient mixing.

Documenting Other Important Construction Milestones

In addition, drones can also be used to document other important milestones in construction projects. Here are some examples:
Site preparation and excavation: Before construction can begin, the site must be prepared and excavated to make way for the foundation and other building components. Drones can be used to capture aerial footage of the process, providing valuable documentation of the work done and progress made.

Structural steel installation: The installation of structural steel is a critical milestone, as it forms the framework for the building. Drones can be used to capture footage of the installation, providing a unique perspective on the process and ensuring that the steel components are being installed correctly.

MEP installation: MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) installation is also a vital component. Aerial footage can be used to monitor the installation of HVAC systems, electrical wiring, plumbing, and other mechanical components.

Exterior finishes: Once the building’s structure is complete, exterior finishes such as siding, brickwork, and stonework can be installed. Drones can capture footage of the exterior finishes, providing a unique perspective on the finished product.

Interior finishes: Interior finishes such as drywall, paint, flooring, and cabinetry are also essential components. Drones can be used to document the installation of these, providing valuable documentation for future reference.

Final walkthrough: Before the building is turned over to the owner, a final walkthrough is typically conducted to ensure that everything is in working order and meets the necessary quality standards. Drones can be used to document this, providing a comprehensive view of the building’s interior and exterior.

Top-Off Ceremonies

Finally, top-off ceremonies are very significant, marking the completion of the building’s structure. Roof placement can involve various components, including trusses, roofing materials, and insulation. This footage can be used to ensure that the roof components are being installed correctly, monitor progress, and identify potential issues such as improperly secured materials or insufficient insulation. These ceremonies often involve placing a final beam or other structural element at the highest point of the building and are a time-honored tradition in the construction industry. Drone Brothers can add extra flair and anticipation to this final and exciting last stage of construction, by sharing it with all in the community from stakeholders and media to future shareholders, some of whom might not be able to view it in person.

In conclusion, from site preparation and excavation to final walkthroughs, drones provide valuable documentation that can be used for quality control, progress monitoring, and future reference. With their ability to capture high-quality aerial footage, drones have become an essential tool for construction professionals.

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