How Much Does a Tilt-Up Building Cost?
Choosing the right construction methods and materials can save millions in the long run
Tilt-up construction can save building owners more money than you may think. Studies show that the total cost to construct a building is between 5 and 10% of the actual amount paid to own and operate it. That means if you’re spending $1,000,000 on your new building’s construction, the cost when factoring in other long-term expenses such as maintenance and operating costs can be as high as $10,000,000.
Tilt-up construction allows for cost-conscious builders and owners to create an exceptional building at a better price while also tackling the elephant in the room – the massive costs required to operate the building and the large sums that can be saved over the long term.
Enjoy Immediate Savings
The costs to complete the construction of a tilt-up building can be less than conventional methods. This is due to:
- More ground-level work which results in no scaffolding and smaller crews
- Can be completed faster than conventional methods
- Reduced transportation costs
- Can utilize lower-skilled labour
- Less dependency on manufactured parts
Let’s take a look at some actual numbers:
Cost Comparison on Commercial Development
| Tilt-Up (7-month schedule) | Conventional (9-month schedule) | |
| General Requirements | $618,478.00 | $738,478.00 |
| Concrete Work | $930,842.00 | $1,367,497.00 |
| Masonry and precast | – | $1,419,738.00 |
| Tilt-up | $1,460,000.00 | – |
| Interior demising walls | $216,486.00 | $472,486.00 |
| Structural steel/misc. metals | $998,580.00 | $1,520,180.00 |
| Contingencies | $211,219.30 | $275,918.95 |
| Total | $4,435605.30 | $5,794,297.95 |
Cost Comparison on Schools
One Storey
| School Name | Location | Type | Floor Area sq. ft. | Bid Amount | Per Foot |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holland Marsh District Christian School | Newmarket | Tilt-Up | 30,490 | $4,488,800 | $147.21 |
| Grace Christian School | Dundas | Tilt-Up | 28,200 | $4,700,000 | $166.67 |
| Half Moon Bay Elementary School II | Ottawa | Conventional | 49,570 | $9,092,000 | $183.42 |
| Avalon Catholic Elementary School | Orleans | Conventional | 49,356 | $9,093,800 | $184.25 |
Multi Storey
| School Name | Location | Type | Floor Area sq. ft. | Bid Amount | Per Foot |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Findlay Creek Elementary School | Findlay Creek | Tilt-Up | 73,000 | $12,797,000 | $175.30 |
| Half Moon Bay Elementary School | Ottawa | Tilt-Up | 63,720 | $11,652,000 | $182.86 |
| Broadview Public School | Ottawa | Tilt-Up | 74,180 | $15,547,000 | $209.58 |
| Kingston Centre Catholic Elementary School | Kingston | Conventional | 35,000 | $7,953,000 | $227.23 |
| Fernbank School | Stittsville | Conventional | 110,000 | $25,178,000 | $228.89 |
| Orleans | Conventional | 47,790 | $11,676,000 | $244.32 |
Enjoy Long-Term Savings
Tilt-up construction can lead to significant savings in the long term – where 90% of a building’s costs actually lie. Looking at these savings is crucial in determining your construction method of choice:
- Large well-insulated wall panels reduce the need for heating and cooling
- Fewer air-gaps, and no thermal bridges in walls
- Reduced cleaning required
- Stronger load-bearing material, so less prone to damage
- Maintains its appearance
- Concrete walls resist moisture better than conventional methods
- Easy to repaint if a new colour is desired
Long-Term Savings
Total energy costs can be cut by up to 35%. Here is a comparison of two new tilt-up construction projects and two using conventional designs.
A Tilt-Up Building Can Result in Huge Savings Today and Tomorrow
As you can see by looking at the information above, you can achieve a lower price with tilt-up construction, but the true savings comes when you factor in the long-term occupancy and maintenance costs.
Whether you’re an owner or an architect, think of tomorrow when you’re deciding on a building today. Ensure you’re considering the long-term cost efficiencies while also keeping your construction costs to a minimum.
Take the Next Step
Learn more about the upfront and long-term cost savings of tilt-up construction by contacting Tilt Wall – explore TiltWall.ca or call 519-602-2990. A friendly and helpful tilt-up expert will be happy to speak with you about short- and long-term cost savings.