Do I need a full build out?

It’s been a minute since you last updated your space or you rented a new space and are looking to hire a contractor to ensure it captures your brand. Most likely, you’re wondering how much you should invest into construction. Do you need a couple small renovations or should you budget for a full build out?

This guide reviews when a full build out is needed and how it differs from a commercial renovation project. It also provides tips on how to find the right contractor for your build out if you’re based in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Hampton Roads, or a nearby Virginia city.

What is a full build out?

We get so many questions about what a build out is and we get it–it’s a confusing term since the definition is not what it seems.

While it would be logical to think a build out refers to building a new construction project, it’s actually all the other stuff. It’s the process of transforming an already built space into an improved space for a new purpose. For example, transforming an old hair salon into a pediatrician’s office would be a build out.

Build out vs renovation

Isn’t a renovation also transforming a space for a new and improved purpose too? Yes and no. When you renovate a space, you do transform its look, but those transformations are smaller and more surface level than a build out.

Renovations cover smaller changes, such as changing the paint color or fixing the floor. A build out, on the other hand, could require a team to break down walls, completely reshape the space, and make other drastic changes which permanently change the interior of a building.

As you might imagine, a build out costs more and can take longer–but it can also have a bigger impact on your business’ revenue because it allows you to better capture the brand and ethos of your business.

When do you need a full build out?

Now that we know what a full build out is, when should you invest in one? You should consider a full build out if:

• You are changing the entire purpose of a space, creating a USE change (think old accountant firm to pet store)
• You need to reconfigure the space, including knocking down walls
• You need to transform a space to capture a new brand ethos

Basically, you should invest in a full build out when you want to perform plastic surgery on a space, not just complete a building makeover.

When do you NOT need a full build out?

While you might already have an idea when a full build out isn’t needed, we wanted to provide a couple examples of times when you should opt for a few renovations instead:

• Your space is run down and needs small, surface level improvements, such as a new coat of paint
• You want to make minor adjustments so your space creates a better atmosphere for your project
• You want to repair wear and tear

A full build out is a serious investment of your time, capital, and trust. That’s why it’s important to consider if you truly need one or if a few renovations could achieve your construction goals. With that being said, a build out at the right time (and with the right contractor) can completely transform your business and increase your revenue for years to come.

Carlton Building Services in Hampton Roads Virginia

Carlton Building Services specializes in repairs, maintenance, renovations, remodelings and build outs for a variety of clients in Hampton Roads, Virginia Beach, and Chesapeake areas. We have years of experience handling projects in the retail, office, and healthcare space and would love to work with you on your next project!

To learn more about our services, check out past project highlights or contact Carlton Building Services to see how we can help with your next project.