Construction projects require a significant amount of planning and coordination to ensure timely completion and budget adherence. One key aspect of planning is the timing of material orders to ensure the appropriate quantities required on-site are available when required.

Why is optimising material orders and quantities important?

By ordering materials in the correct quantities and at the appropriate time, it is possible to avoid costly delays and minimise waste, which can have a significant impact on the overall project budget. In addition, it can also help to ensure that the construction site is safe and organized, reducing the risk of accidents, injuries and theft.

Best practices for material orders and quantities

1. Plan ahead
   Start with a detailed construction schedule that outlines the specific materials required for each phase of the project. This schedule should also include lead times for each material, so that orders can be placed well in advance to avoid delays and ensure ‘on time’ delivery. By planning ahead, it is also possible to take advantage of bulk discounts and negotiate better prices with suppliers.
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2. Use of technology
   Construction project management software can help to streamline the process of ordering materials and tracking inventory. By using software to manage material orders, it is possible to ensure the correct quantities of materials are on hand and can assist in avoiding costly overstocking. Additionally, software can help to automate the reordering process, so that materials are ordered on time, reducing delays and waste.
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3. Working with reliable suppliers
   It is important to carefully vet potential suppliers to ensure they have a proven track record of delivering high-quality materials, on time. In addition, clear communication channels are essential to ensure suppliers are aware of any changes to the construction schedule that may impact material order quantities and delivery times.
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4. Conduct regular inventory checks
   Regular inventory checks can help to ensure that the construction site always has the correct quantities of materials on hand. Conducting regular inventory checks will help to identify any shortages or excesses in material quantities. This information can then be used to adjust material orders and avoid delays or waste.

Best practices for cement storage on construction sites

Proper storage of cement is essential to ensure that it remains usable throughout the construction process. Below are some best practices for cement storage on construction sites. The following four steps will ensure that the cement doesn’t become contaminated, harden or clump due to moisture exposure which can render it unusable.

1. Store cement in a dry location, preferably still wrapped in the manufacturer’s plastic shrink-wrap, until the date of use.
2. Storage containers are a good option and provide both security and weather protection. Remember that it is important to label each container with the type of cement and the date it was received to ensure the right cement is used and is used in the correct order.
3. Store cement containers at least 30 cm away from walls to prevent condensation or moisture transfer onto the cement bags.
4. And ensure that cement is stored off the ground, to prevent moisture from seeping in from below. Where possible, store the cement bags on the pallets provided by the manufacturer.