Top 10 Tips to Extending the Performance of an Industrial Building

Although most concrete cures in seven days, keeping chemicals and deicers off the surface for at least 12 months is critical to avoid deterioration and surface failures. If you must apply materials to the concrete for ice or snow removal, use plain cat litter instead of chemicals. Lots of snow? Get out the shovels and remove it the old-fashioned way – with a little manpower.

Dock equipment can be an expensive investment for an industrial complex. So when the equipment fails, it could lead to big-ticket repair costs. Remember to exercise dock equipment monthly and lubricate per the manufacturers recommendations to avoid expenses down the road.

Using a commercial floor scrubber is a standard method to clean large industrial complexes. While these machines provide efficiencies from a cleaning perspective, they also create gallons of dirty liquids. If not properly disposed of, this liquid can cause havoc on plumbing systems and can even be harmful to workers and the environment. Having a scrubber dump can alleviate these issues.

Ventilation systems not only bring fresh air indoors and remove contaminated air, they also help building materials such as concrete fully cure. Whether occupied or not, air handling units should run regularly in new and even existing buildings.

Windows installed on commercial and industrial buildings are often designed to create energy efficiencies providing long-term utility savings for owners. While it may be tempting to alter the windows with blinds affixed to the frames or painting the glass to provide shade or reduce glare, those changes can affect the efficiency of the window. Consider other options first for windows such as manufacturer-approved window treatments and glare solutions. Additionally, regularly inspect windows for cracks or breaks as well as how the sealant is performing will also keep down costs.

No matter the element – wind, snow, rain or heat – the roof is always exposed and can make it the most vulnerable part of a building’s exterior. To ensure the roof performs as intended in the initial design, keep gutters and drainage systems clear always. Plus, when accessing the roof, use slip sheets or extra roofing material to protect the roof from foot traffic and/or heavy loads of other materials.

Facility costs account for a large percentage of operating expenses for industrial building owners. Lowering energy costs can impact the bottom line and a properly maintained HVAC system is a good first place to start. Using proper manufacturer-recommended filters and changing them based on the recommended durations ensures maximum efficiency and air quality. Plus, remember to inspect and clean coils and cables and clear drain pans and condensation lines of obstructions. A routine professional inspection by a third-party vendor is also recommended.

It may be hard to believe, but paper towels often make their way to unwanted places (like toilets and drains) and can lead to pipe blockage issues. Consider purchasing commercial products that are easily degradable to prevent clogs and issues (in case they are not properly disposed of). Remember while avoiding paper products completely may not be feasible, having trash cans accessible in areas like bathrooms, kitchens and public spaces will make disposal easier.

Caulking seals joints or seams in structures and/or around piping. Over the course of months (or years) as a building settles, caulking may be necessary to seal small gaps to protect structures against water, air, dust or other components. Remember to use the proper caulking material for the job as there are several different varieties including paintable vs. non-paintable and expandable vs. shrink resistant.

Commercial-grade paint not only offers curb appeal, but also can protect materials such as wood from the elements. Remember, commercial paint usually has a life span of five years; however, it may be shorter due to exposure or even the color selected (i.e. vibrant and dark colors, for example, often have a shorter life expectancy than neutral colors). It’s good practice to inspect trim and surfaces after 3-4 years to gauge whether a fresh coat of paint is required.