Starting a commercial construction project is an exciting milestone for any business, but if you’re in Western Wisconsin or the East Metro, it comes with some unique considerations. Whether you’re planning a new dental clinic, daycare, or professional space, the success of your project often hinges on decisions made before the first shovel hits the ground.
Here are the most important things to know before getting started:
- Find a Local General Contractor Who Knows the Region
Working with a contractor that understands regional building codes, local zoning regulations, and the seasonal construction challenges in the Midwest is critical. At Maple Ridge Builders, our 21+ years in the Western Wisconsin and East Metro area have given us the insight to avoid costly delays and navigate permitting smoothly.
Tip: Ask potential contractors about their experience with projects similar to yours in your specific city or county.
- Clarify Your Goals and Timeline Early
Before you engage with architects or builders, define what success looks like for your project. Do you need the space operational by a specific date? Are you building for flexibility and future growth? Your answers will influence everything from design to materials to contractor selection.
- Budget with Cushion for the Unexpected
Commercial builds can uncover surprises: soil conditions, material costs, supply chain delays, or weather setbacks. A solid contractor will help you plan for contingencies and avoid “scope creep.”
Pro Insight: We recommend building in a 10-15% buffer for unknowns.
- Design with Your End-Users in Mind
Whether it’s staff, customers, or tenants, understanding how your space will be used every day is key to making smart design decisions. We often work directly with business owners during the pre-construction phase to optimize layout, function, and flow.
- Know the Difference Between GC and Design-Build Models
A general contractor typically works alongside your architect and subs, while a design-build firm handles both the design and construction. Maple Ridge Builders offers flexible models depending on your needs, with a strong preference for collaborative planning early on.
Why Work with Maple Ridge Builders?
We specialize in custom commercial construction in Western Wisconsin and the East Metro, including:
- Dental clinics
- Senior living upgrades
- Daycare facilities
- Park buildings
- Renovations and facility repurposing
We pride ourselves on being problem-solvers, not just builders. If you’re considering a commercial project, our team can guide you from planning to ribbon cutting with transparency, efficiency, and decades of experience.
Let’s build something that works for your business.