Introduction



In the intricate world of construction, general contractors often find themselves at the crossroads of coordination challenges, particularly between Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) and drywall trades. These challenges primarily revolve around the concept of 'priority walls' — essential elements in a construction project that require careful planning and execution.

Perspectives on Priority Walls

For general contractors, a priority wall is typically one that is full height and needs to be framed from top to bottom before any MEP work commences. From the perspective of MEP contractors, however, these walls are where they need to install as much of their work as possible before the drywall is placed. Drywall contractors, conversely, argue that these walls should be installed before any MEP activities begin. This difference in perspectives is not just a minor disagreement but highlights a deeper issue in the construction process.

Top Down Qualifications and Conflicts

One common practice among drywall contractors is to include "top down" qualifications in their proposals, demanding that their framing and drywalling be completed before MEP work begins. However, these qualifications often lead to contention as MEP contractors are considered more integral to the project's progress by general contractors. This difference in valuation often results in drywall contractors struggling to have their needs prioritized.

The Complexity and Value of MEP Work

The rarity and complexity of MEP work add another layer to this dynamic. MEP contractors are few and far between, making their services highly sought after. Their work involves complex system design and is often the most costly part of a construction project, granting them significant leverage over the sequence of work. Despite advancements like Building Information Modeling (BIM), drywall contractors still face coordination challenges, indicating that technological solutions have yet to fully address the root issues.

Real-World Coordination Challenges

A real-world example can be seen in hospital construction in California, governed by the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD). Despite strict inspection processes and regulations, issues between MEP and drywall trades continue, highlighting the universal nature of this challenge.

Strategies for Improved Coordination

To navigate these obstacles, project managers must strive for effective communication and coordination among the different trades. This involves building relationships, understanding each party's work, and fostering a collaborative environment. As explained by industry professionals, success often depends on educating each trade about the impact of their work on the overall project and striving for mutual agreement.

The Need for Industry-Wide Solutions

Yet, despite individual efforts, industry-wide solutions remain elusive. Professional associations have yet to establish standards that address the sequencing and coordination of work effectively. This absence of a standardized approach continues to result in inefficiencies and conflicts on construction sites.

The Future of Construction and Prefabrication

The move toward prefabrication in MEP trades represents a shift in construction practices, with significant implications for scheduling and project management. As MEP trades continue to evolve, becoming more efficient and streamlined through prefabrication, the need for better coordination with drywall contractors becomes increasingly important.

Conclusion

The dynamics between MEP and drywall trades in construction projects are complex and multifaceted. While individual project managers can make strides towards better coordination, there is a clear need for industry-wide standards and practices that address these challenges. Teamwork and fair contracting are essential for the success of any construction project, requiring all parties to work together towards a common goal. As the industry evolves, it will be crucial to continue seeking solutions that balance the needs and priorities of all trades involved.

Source: Battisti, Peter. "The Elephant in the room: how general contractors can balance work with MEP and drywall trades." Walls & Ceilings, vol. 77, no. 3, Mar. 2014, pp. 74+.