Maximizing ROI for GCs, Subs, and Airport Projects
As expansion and renovation projects accelerate across U.S. airports, general contractors, subcontractors, and project managers are seeking alternatives to traditional drywall and containment systems that slow timelines, inflate budgets, and disrupt the flow of travelers around concession or terminal construction. At Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), SwiftWall® temporary wall systems were deployed to address exactly these challenges.
During major bathroom renovations led by LGC Global, and tenant improvement upgrades managed by The Peterson Companies, SwiftWall® Pro delivered faster installation, reduced disruption, and lower total cost of construction compared to drywall. The result? A seamless buildout that preserved passenger flow, satisfied stakeholders, and minimized costly delays.
Faster Installation = Reduced Labor Costs
Stakeholders: General Contractors & Subcontractors
Operational Challenge: Labor costs are one of the largest line items in any airport construction budget.
Why It Matters:
- Drywall installation requires multiple trades (framing, hanging, finishing, painting)
- SwiftWall® Pro can be installed by a single crew in a fraction of the time
ROI Example: On a 1,200 ft² project, traditional drywall installation can cost upwards of $77,725 when accounting for materials, labor, and removal. By comparison, a SwiftWall® Pro system used across five projects brings the average total cost down to just $28,000 — a 61% savings.
That’s a potential reduction of nearly $50,000 per project phase, with added benefits including faster installation, lower contractor labor requirements, and dramatically less waste. For GCs managing tight schedules and margins, those savings translate directly into higher profitability and the ability to take on more work.
Minimized Disruption = Increased Revenue for Airports and Tenants
Stakeholders: Airport Authorities & Tenant-Focused Projects
Project Limitation: Downtime means lost revenue for concessionaires and disruption for passengers.
Why It Matters:
- SwiftWall® Pro installs cleanly, without dust or debris
- Barriers can be installed or reconfigured during off-hours
- Airport retail and service areas reopen faster
ROI Example: If a tenant generates $10,000/day, reopening even 3 days earlier means $30,000 in retained revenue. A direct financial win for both the tenant and the airport.
Sustainability & Reusability = Long-Term Cost Savings
Stakeholders: GCs & Airport Sustainability Teams
Cost Driver: Drywall is single-use, labor-intensive to dispose, and generates waste.
Why It Matters:
- SwiftWall® Pro is reusable across multiple projects
- Reduces landfill waste and material purchase cycles
- Supports LEED initiatives and ESG goals
ROI Example: A contractor using 5,000 linear feet of temporary barriers per year could eliminate tens of thousands in recurring material and disposal fees.
Code Compliance = Risk Mitigation and Faster Inspections
Stakeholders: GCs, Subs & Project Engineers
Compliance Risk: Temporary barriers that fail code inspections create costly delays.
Why It Matters:
- SwiftWall® systems meet IBC, fire, seismic, and safety codes
- Reduces rework and risk of inspection failure
- Speeds up closeout and approvals
- Minimizes potential injuries
ROI Example: One failed fire inspection can delay a project by 2–4 weeks, costing $50,000–$100,000+ in schedule impact. Using a code-compliant system upfront prevents these risks entirely.
Results at DTW: Seamless Execution in an Operational Airport
General Contractor (LGC Global): Used SwiftWall® Pro during terminal restroom renovations to isolate work zones quickly and professionally
Tenant Improvements (The Peterson Companies): SwiftWall® Pro was deployed to create safe, clean separation in tenant-focused areas without compromising airport branding or aesthetics
Outcome: Passenger flow remained uninterrupted. Construction zones were secure, clean, and flexible. Both GCs met their timelines with reduced labor and greater operational efficiency.
Inside the walls
Real spaces. Real stories. Real SwiftWall.
SwiftWall® is a Proven Investment for Airport Projects
SwiftWall® isn’t just a faster alternative to drywall, it’s a smart financial decision for contractors and airport authorities. Whether you’re bidding a high-stakes terminal renovation or managing tenant improvements, SwiftWall® helps deliver on time, under budget, and with less hassle. Contact SwiftWall® today to learn how we can help you build better at the speed of travel.
Looking to improve margins and accelerate timelines on your next airport renovation? SwiftWall® helps general contractors and subcontractors deliver clean, code-compliant, and cost-effective barrier solutions that keep passengers moving and projects on track.
Faster Installs. Cleaner Jobsites. Smarter Results.
Ready to Build Smarter? Contact Us Today.
