Posted on By Julie Swartz Categories Company News

Lock in Your Construction Project Now

You may not be thinking of construction projects in the middle of Winter, but the Prairie Construction team thinks now is the perfect time to start planning!

Rising costs for materials are unavoidable, but confirming a project now can help minimize the impact. Weather-related natural disasters, supply issues and the economy only drive up demand for materials, so short supplies and increased prices impact projects.

Weather in the Midwest dictates the timing for many projects as well. Extreme cold, snow, and ice make the Winter months less than ideal for many projects, but an ideal time to prepare.

The Prairie Construction team encourages planning now to ensure the best prices and timing for 2025 projects.

Posted on By Julie Swartz Categories Company News

New Year – Time for New Projects!

New Year’s Greetings from the Prairie Construction team!

The end of the calendar year is a great time to reflect on the past year, and to look forward to the coming year! A new year can bring a fresh start and an opportunity to set new goals.

If you’ve been putting off a remodel or new build project, make 2025 the year to make it happen!

As you prepare for any construction project, the team at Prairie Construction has some considerations to make your project a success:

  • Choose your contractor carefully, and don’t be afraid to ask for referrals. A trusted, reliable contractor can be the key to making any project run smoothly.
  • Pick a company has a solid reputation. Check their rating with the Better Business Bureau before you sign a contract or pay a deposit.
  • Working with a single contractor or construction company who can manage your project from start to finish will save you from having to find subcontractors.
  • Ask your contractor if you can see their previous projects like yours.
  • Work with a company that has a good understanding of architectural design.

Choosing the right company for your project will eliminate stress and keep the project running smoothly, and on schedule.

Contact Prairie Construction to start planning your 2025 construction project!

Posted on By Julie Swartz Categories Company News

Welcome to the Prairie Team, Ben Gordon!

Prairie Construction is proud to welcome Project Manager Ben Gordon to the team!

In his role, Ben will oversee all aspects of the construction process, ensuring they are completed safely, on time, and within budget. Meeting client expectations and quality requirements are top goals of Ben’s!

Ben graduated from UNO with a degree in Construction Management in 2015. His first job was as a Project Engineer and has worked for both small and large firms’ general contractors in Omaha. He has a solid background in a variety of types of projects.

Ben is excited to join the Prairie team, saying it is unlike any other group he has worked for. “Prairie has created an environment that encourages collaboration and support both in the office and the field, which allows us to work truly as a team,” he said. “This teamwork ensures the success of each project while fostering strong relationships with our trade partners and the overall satisfaction of our clients.”

Ben likes the challenges associated with the ever-changing construction industry. “Whether it’s the continuing supply chain and labor issues, or an increase in security and technology requirements, the constant evolution and the need to adapt quickly keep me interested and motivated.”

Ben manages the project at the new Elkhorn Elementary School #13. Prairie recently broke ground on the school, which will welcome students for the 2025/26 school year. The 72,000 sq foot elementary school will be located at 204th & I St. and is a precast concrete and steel framed school. The new school will consist of 4 classroom wings, one of which will serve as a storm shelter, and new administrative offices, a gym, cafeteria, and kitchen.

He is also managing the renovation of the auditorium at Elkhorn High School and the remodel and expansion of Elkhorn Public School’s warehouse.

“I am excited to be a part of the Prairie team and contribute to the growth and success of the company,” said Ben.

Posted on By Julie Swartz Categories Company News

Prairie Construction is Hiring!

Prairie Construction has immediate openings for full-time construction positions. Openings include Laborers and Carpenters, and seasonal Construction Workers.

Prairie Construction offers full-time employees competitive wages (based on experience), health, dental, and vision insurance, 401K, and paid vacation and holidays.

Commercial construction experience is preferred, but Prairie Construction is willing to train qualified candidates. Candidates must be at least 18, have transportation, and be willing to work a minimum of 40 hours/week. Work is local and will begin immediately.

If interested, please apply in-person at Prairie Construction 13316 B St. in Omaha, Monday – Friday 7 am to 3:30 pm, or send a resume to tom@prairie-construction.com.

Posted on By Julie Swartz Categories Company News

Prairie Construction Welcomes Joe Barnhart

We recently welcomed Joe Barnhart to the Prairie Construction team. Joe will serve in a Project Manager/Business Development role.

Joe brings more than 2 decades of experience and an extensive skill set to the Prairie team. During his career, he has worked as a project manager for an engineering company on several projects, including work on the ATF headquarters in Washington DC, and the Santa Clara Crime Lab in San Jose. Before joining the Prairie team, he spent the last 16 years at a mechanical contracting company in Omaha.

Joe has been a great addition to the Prairie team. “The cultural environment of Prairie Construction is built around intellect, passion to be the best, and personal and professional respect,” he said.  “All while marching in the direction of bringing clients’ vision to reality.”

Joe points to loyal customers who continue to contract with Prairie as a sign of our dedication to quality service.  “The repeat business is a testament to Prairie Constructions’ vision, core values, and the character and abilities of each member of the team,” he said.

“I cannot stress enough that it’s great to be at a company with great people!  I see people helping where needed, hearing people discussing trade techniques, strategizing on how to accomplish a task, discussing past experiences, and genuinely enjoying working together as a team.  This is not just inside the walls of Prairie Construction but at owner meetings, at lunches, or company/client parties. I am honored to just be a part of a team that is willing to teach, advise, and guide a 22-year mechanical guy like me.”

Welcome to the Prairie team, Joe!

Posted on By Julie Swartz Categories Company News

What to Know About Frozen Pipes

We’ve been hit with extreme cold weather, and it doesn’t seem to want to quit. Temperatures below 0 degrees aren’t unusual for the Midwest (although the Omaha Metro area never dipped below 0 in 2023!), but this stretch of cold has been extreme.

When temperatures fall below freezing, and stay as long as they have now, there is a real threat of pipes bursting, even in insulated, heated structures. Outdoor hoses, swimming pool plumbing, or sprinkler systems are at high risk, but pipes in unheated areas of your home such as basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages, and kitchen or bathroom cabinets are also susceptible to freezing. Pipes that run along exterior walls with little or no insulation are at the highest risk.

Older pipes, or those with rust or corrosion are weaker, and this increases the risk of freezing. Corroded pipes can split when freezing expansion occurs, and the damage occurs when they begin to thaw, or when water is turned back on. But even newer, plastic pipes can freeze in extreme conditions. The risk is even higher during a power outage, which is likely in areas of prolonged demands on the power systems.

This can often go unseen until it is too late because pipes are typically inside walls. Homeowners may notice a leak after the water has damaged floors, ceilings, walls, or carpet.

Draining exterior pipes completely of water is crucial. Insulating pipes in unheated areas with pipe sleeves or installing UL-listed heat tape will help prevent freezing. Plumbers recommend keeping a steady drip of water on to keep water moving through pipes. Keep kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors open to allow airflow, and if you will be away for some time, set the thermostat to at least 55 degrees.

If you suspect a pipe is frozen, but aren’t sure which one, turn on the faucets. If one isn’t releasing water, it is likely frozen. Turn the hot and cold water on, and begin thawing the pipes with a hairdryer, starting close to the faucet. Wrap the pipes in hot towels or electric heat tape or turn the heat in the home or building up to thaw the frozen pipes. Do not use a blowtorch, propane heater, or any open flame device to thaw pipes!

Unattended frozen pipes can lead to significant damage in your home. Contact the Prairie Construction team if you have questions about avoiding these types of problems in your home or structure. Stay warm and safe!

 

Posted on By Julie Swartz Categories Company News

New Year, New Projects

Happy New Year from all of us at Prairie Construction!

The start of the new year is a good time to set goals for the coming year. If you have been considering a remodel or new build project for your home or business, make 2024 the year for your project!

The Prairie Construction team has some tips to keep in mind to help make your new construction or remodel project successful:

  • Referrals: Choose your contractor carefully, and don’t be afraid to ask for referrals.
  • Do Your Research: Choose a company with a solid reputation. Check with the Better Business Bureau before you sign a contract or pay a deposit.
  • Find a Project Manager: Working with a construction company that offers a designated Project Manager for your project who will manage your project from start to finish will save you the headache of needing to find subcontractors.
  • Similar Experience: Choose a contractor that has experience with projects like yours and ask if you can see them.

Choosing the right company for your project will make the process successful and eliminate stress, so trust your instinct and do your homework.

Investing in your home or business with a remodel or new construction project will pay off in the long run. Contact Prairie Construction to start planning your 2024 construction project!

Posted on By Julie Swartz Categories Company News

Choosing a Contractor that is Right for Your Project

Are you considering or planning a construction project for 2024? Choosing the right contractor for your project is perhaps the most critical decision you will make in the planning process.

There are many construction companies to choose from, making it difficult to know which is the right one for you and your project. The Prairie Construction team offers some qualities to look for when choosing your contractor:

  • Safety Record. Prioritizing safety is critical to any construction company. Choose a company that has a strong safety record, and you shouldn’t be afraid to ask questions related to job-site safety practices.
  • Commitment to Deadlines and Budget. A reputable contractor will share your desire to stay on deadline and on budget. While unexpected things may occur during a project, working with a contractor who is committed to staying on deadline and on budget will make the project run smoothly.
  • Relevant Experience. Because there are so many contractors to choose from, narrowing your list to companies that have experience with projects similar to yours will put you one step closer to a successful project.
  • Ask for References! Like any other major decision, checking references from past clients that a contractor has worked with will not only give you peace of mind but will also shed valuable insight on what you can expect during the process.
  • It may not seem important, but you will spend a great deal of time communicating with your contractor throughout the process, so choose someone who prioritizes customer service, is responsive, and listens to your ideas and preferences.

Completing a construction project is exciting, and the process doesn’t have to be stressful. Call the Prairie Construction team today to discuss your upcoming project.

Posted on By Julie Swartz Categories Company News

Thanksgiving Greetings from Prairie Construction

The Prairie Construction team would like to extend greetings and wishes for a very Happy Thanksgiving.

Thank you to each of our clients. We appreciate the trust you have in the Prairie Construction team. Thank you for your business, and your referrals. We look forward to serving and working with you in the future!

We are grateful for our vendors, partners, and subcontractors that we have been fortunate to partner with this year. Thank you for your collaboration, and shared dedication to meeting the client’s needs and deadlines, and to providing quality service on every job.

And a special THANK YOU for every member of the Prairie Construction team. Thank you for sharing your talents and expertise on every project. We appreciate your loyalty and dedication!

Thank you to each of you who have worked with us throughout the year. We wish each of you a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Posted on By Julie Swartz Categories Company News, Current Projects

The Longest Day of the Year

The official start of summer is June 21 – it is also the longest day of the year!

Summer is busy for the Prairie Construction team – the days are the longer, the weather is cooperative, and it’s a great time for us to complete as many projects as we can!

Not only do we take advantage of the warm, dry weather, but we also take advantage of longer hours of daylight. And in some cases, we barely wait for the sun to rise before getting a start on the day.

That was the case recently when our team made the most of the day to pour concrete at the West Hampton Flex project at 192nd & Blondo. We used light towers to help our team make the most of day and get the concrete poured at this new construction build.

You can watch the progress here!