3 Types of Contractors in Construction | Skilled Trades College of Canada

Construction and home improvement projects often call for team effort. Different types of contractors bring specialized skills and expertise to ensure every aspect of the project is handled efficiently and to a high standard. Whether it’s for towering commercial projects or small home improvements, the success of the construction hinges on the expertise of various contractors.

So, who are these skilled professionals? Let us introduce you to the three types of contractors that make the construction industry tick.

1. General Contractors

General contractors are the maestros of construction projects. These independent contractors are the single point of contact for the project owner, handling the project from start to finish.

Their responsibilities include:

✔ Project planning and scheduling.
✔ Managing day-to-day site activities on the job site.
✔ Hiring and managing subcontractors and specialized contractors.
✔ Budget management (cost estimating, negotiating contracts with subcontractors, and managing change orders).
✔ Ensuring construction site safety.
✔ Conducting quality checks.
✔ Keeping communication lines open with the property owners and other parties involved.
✔ Securing materials and equipment.
✔ Making sure the project adheres to building codes and regulations.

That’s why general contractors must be proficient in communication, budgeting, construction management, reading blueprints, and interpreting architectural plans to bring the design vision to life. They juggle procurement, scheduling, quality control, construction site safety, and more.

👷 Read more: How to Become a General Contractor

A group of construction workers wearing construction safety gear while at work

2. Subcontractors

When starting a construction project, the general contractor is often the first one to hire. They will bring in subcontractors specialized in different areas during the building process.

These types of independent contractors don’t have a construction contract with the project owner because they work under the authority of the general contractor. If the general contractor is the maestro, the subcontractors are the instrumental sections that play to their trades in construction.

Below is a breakdown of two types of subcontractors a general contractor may hire.

Licensed Trade Contractors

A construction project follows specific rules to ensure the final structure is safe, functional, and up to code. That’s why, most of the time, licensed trade contractors are called in for more specialized skilled trades, including electrical wiring installation, plumbing work, or anything related to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Their specific skills and expertise help ensure the project meets industry standards and regulations.

Here are a few types of contractors that fall under this category:

✔ Electrical Contractors
✔ Plumbing Contractors
✔ HVAC technicians
✔ Carpenters
✔ Welders

✔ Roofers
✔ Drywall Installation Contractors
✔ Plastering Subcontractors
✔ Insulation Contractors
✔ Masons

🦺 Pro Tip: Licensed trade contractors are often (but not always) from Red Seal Trades. Check with local trade organizations or government websites that maintain lists of licensed contractors in your province or territory to ensure you’re hiring a qualified professional.

Specialty Contractors

Licensed trade contractors handle crucial building systems, but construction projects usually cover a wider range of specialized tasks. This is where specialty contractors come in.

Different types of contractors like these focus on particular construction areas, bringing in-depth knowledge and experience to elevate the project's aesthetics, functionality, and overall quality.

Some examples of these types of contractors in the construction industry are:

✔ Framing Contractors
✔ Landscaping Contractors
✔ Concrete Contractors
✔ Demolition Contractors
✔ Excavation Contractors
✔ Steel Contractors

✔ Interior Contractors
✔ Exterior Contractors
✔ Painting Contractors
✔ Footing and Foundation Contractors
✔ Tile-Setting Contractors

A specialty contractor may also be called in for tasks that require a unique skillset like installing fire alarm systems or security systems, removing hazardous materials, dewatering, or sandblasting.

🦺 Pro Tip: Usually, specialty subcontractors need licenses and certifications to operate. If you’re looking for the right contractor, ensure they have the qualifications. Don't hesitate to ask for proof!

A skilled trade student welding a copper pipe

3. Design-Build Contractors

A typical project follows a linear path, with separate phases for design and construction. Often, the property owner hires an architect or engineering firm to develop plans and specifications. This is followed by bidding out the construction work to a general contractor.

The above approach works most of the time, but, in some cases, it may lead to inefficiencies and communication gaps between design and construction teams. That’s why a one-stop shop for design and build appeals to some people.

Design-build contractors combine the expertise of architects, project managers, and general contractors under one roof. These contractor types act as a single point of contact for the design and construction phases of the project.

Take the First Step to a Successful Contractor Career

The construction marvels of tomorrow demand skilled contractors today. The best part is you can pursue a rewarding career as a contractor in as little as 12 weeks at Skilled Trades College of Canada!

Our comprehensive pre-apprenticeship programs provide a solid stepping stone for the next generation of construction professionals. We equip you with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience to work and excel in the construction industry. Whether you want to get into the electrical or plumbing sectors or become a general contractor with our Intro to Home Renovation course, the options are endless.

These courses can also help you confidently take on home renovations yourself, saving big on contractor fees. Don’t wait, build your future today at Skilled Trades College of Canada.

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