Feb 10 2022
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commercial parking garage

Tips to Preserve Your Commercial Parking Garage

By | Parking Garage Services

Commercial parking garages and garages offer a safe and secure place for patrons to park their vehicles and use the facilities associated with the garage. However, many commercial parking garages have been neglected and taken for granted by building managers and consequently don’t get the proper maintenance it needs. This leads to the deterioration of parking garages. Yet, their use is essential to modern businesses. According to the Injury Claim Coach, non-residential parking facilities are used by 175 million people every day, and each use represents a potential risk that could lead to injuries or premature wear and tear on the structure. If one would just take the time to look at the conditions of their garages and properly maintain them, commercial parking garages will continue to serve the people that use them daily. This article will explore a few tips to restore and preserve the integrity of parking garages. 1. Check Structures Around the Commercial Parking Garage Doors for Water Spots Water spots in commercial parking garages or near commercial parking garage doors are signs of leaking and water damage in the garage. It means that water from rain, ice, or snow has seeped through the concrete and corroded it. This can expose the rebar underneath which can cause damage to vehicles parked in the garage if they park too close, On top of that, the rebar can also rust and contribute to the spalling of the concrete. Additionally. water spots and spills can cause patrons to slip and…

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Feb 08 2022
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parking_garage_degradation

Parking Garage Degradation Causes and Signs

By | Parking Garage Services

Whether it’s an office space, a shopping mall, or any other commercial building, these places will always need space allocated for parking garages. Garages provide a safe and secure area where people can park their vehicles. Because of this, they are some of the most utilized structures in commercial buildings, and why it’s necessary to take proper care and maintain parking garages. Otherwise, they can start to degrade rapidly.  As further explained by FacilitiesNet, “Whether the parking facility is a freestanding multi-level garage or a few below-grade levels under a high-rise building or plaza, the imperative is the same: proactive condition assessment and diligent maintenance. If problems are ignored, the harsh environment in garages, including corrosive deicing chemicals, freeze-thaw cycling, and the stress of thousands of vehicles traversing the deck, will quickly accelerate deterioration into hazardous conditions. With the integrity of the garage and the safety of users at stake, facility managers should prioritize parking structure evaluation and maintenance to preempt problems and avoid possible liability.” This article will highlight the signs of parking garage deterioration, the steps to prevent it, and how to restore parking garages to their former glory.  Causes of Parking Garage Degradation The first step to creating a better maintenance plan for the commercial parking garage is understanding its top causes, which also mirror the signs of parking garage deterioration, including: Water ponding. If water is ponding on a garage floor, it means that the water has slipped through the cracks in the concrete. Water and…

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Feb 03 2022
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parking_garage_restoration

A Look at Parking Garage Restoration Services

By | Parking Garage Services

Parking garage restoration falls under overarching parking garage maintenance. According to the Whole Building Design Guide, “One of the important aspects of parking facilities in their operations and maintenance. The constant use of parking facilities as an expected part of our infrastructure and as revenue-generating requires unique maintenance and operational needs. Maintenance is crucial due to its complete exposure to the weather.” However, those new to building management or facilities maintenance may be unsure of the actual budget expectations and maintenance needs that fall under this umbrella. Let’s take a closer look.  Parking Garage Cost Considerations The cost of parking garage maintenance can be high, but it is important to keep the garage in good condition to avoid any costly repairs or safety risks. Parking garage costs for maintenance vary widely depending on several factors. The types of materials used in construction can significantly influence the cost of parking garage maintenance. For example, a parking garage built with materials that require frequent painting or sealing will undoubtedly cost more to maintain thanone made of materials that do not need such care. In addition, the climate and location of the garage can also play a role in how often it needs to be maintained. Garages in areas with high humidity levels, for example, may require more frequent maintenance than those in drier climates. Parking Garage Restoration and Maintenance Are Essential An important factor affecting the ROI of parking garage maintenance is who is responsible for providing those services. If a property…

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Feb 01 2022
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commercial handrail mistakes

The Most Common Commercial Handrail Mistakes to Avoid

By | Commercial Handrail Installation

Commercial handrails are more integral to a commercial building than one might think. They provide support for people who have trouble walking and also prevent fall hazards. So they must be installed correctly according to OSHA Guidelines. Unfortunately, many mistakes in handrail installation and repair have occurred. Because of this, many injuries have happened, and subsequently, injury costs piled up.  According to the National Safety Council, “The total cost of work injuries in 2019 was $171.0 billion. This figure includes wage and productivity losses of $53.9 billion, medical expenses of $35.5 billion, and administrative expenses of $59.7 billion. This total also includes employers’ uninsured costs of $13.3 billion, including the value of time lost by workers other than those with disabling injuries who are directly or indirectly involved in injuries, and the cost of time required to investigate injuries, write up injury reports, and so forth.” As a result, keeping building occupants safe means building managers need to know the most common commercial handrail mistakes and how to prevent them.  Improper Installation We’ve talked about giving handrails the proper attention due to their importance in commercial buildings. However, some contractors choose to install the railings themselves, which  can lead to them being installed incorrectly. To ensure it’s done right in the first place, hire an expert who specializes in handrails. Inaccurate Measurements Another commercial handrail mistake is installing them with inaccurate measurements. All railings must adhere to OSHA guidelines,  but the size of railings will vary depending on intended use…

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Jan 25 2022
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commercial_railings

Signs It’s Time to Repair Commercial Railings

By | Commercial Handrail Installation

Commercial railings are an integral part of any commercial building. They provide support for people as they traverse through the premises. But constant usage and even weather conditions can cause severe wear and tear on railings installed outdoors that could compromise the structure’s integrity. Several visible and hidden signs or indicators show commercial railings need repair. This blog focuses on those signs and how to recognize them.  1. Visible Damage or Cracks to the Railing Various factors can cause cracks and damages to commercial railings. Often, it’s due to the constant pressure of continuous usage by patrons that will cause the railings to lose their integrity over time. Environmental factors like wind, rain, or sun can also cause decay of the material, such as worn-out wood or rust on metal rails. It’s crucial to repair these damages immediately, especially if the railing is on a high-rise platform like a rooftop. When deciding how to fix these damages, it’s best to consult an expert who knows the proper procedures to repair commercial handrails. 2. Replacement or Repair of Banisters By design, banisters or balusters help prevent small children from falling off a balcony, deck, or other elevated platforms. For stairwells, they provide the elevation for the railing along the staircase. Balusters can also offer additional support for commercial railings. But, banisters also tend to loosen or break over time, especially ones made out of wood. Since they are part of the railing, they require prompt attention if it seems like their…

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Jan 20 2022
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handrail_and_guard_definitions

Handrail and Guard Definitions to Know

By | Commercial Handrail Installation

When installing, repairing, or replacing handrails and guards throughout a commercial building, contractors can use terms and vocabulary that may seem intimidating. Luckily, we are here to help! Knowing some of these handrail and guard definitions will come in handy when hiring a contractor to work on them. Load Requirement Load requirement refers to the amount of weight that the handrail can withstand. Uniform load applies to the load capacity of the railing per foot. The weight capacity of a railing in a single point of the handrail is defined as a concentrated load of the rail. Building owners and managers can manage load requirements depending on the materials used. Toe Board A toe board is a part of the guardrail placed on the walking surface that serves as a protective barrier to notify people of potential hazards, such as tools or other objects falling from elevated surfaces or someone falling from a floor opening. Top or Midrails Top rails are the part of a structure that should always be elevated and make up more handrail and guard definitions to know. Top rails provide support for people when walking, climbing stairs, or navigating any angled platform. Midrails refer to the railing between the top rail and the surface. They provide additional reinforcement for the railing and can also double as support for small children.  Handrail and Handrail Systems Handrail and guard definitions also include knowing what forms true handrail systems. A handrail is a rail fixed across staircases and other…

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Jan 18 2022
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commercial_handrail_repair

Top 5 Considerations in Commercial Handrail Repair or Replacement

By | Commercial Handrail Installation

Handrails are an integral part of any commercial real estate. They provide safety and security for the building’s employees and clients who interact with the building. Commercial handrails offer support for those who require it, and when installed on the rooftops of buildings, can also prevent fall hazards. However, factors such as constant usage by patrons, weather conditions, and more can cause wear and tear, leading to repairs or replacement. But apart from damage, there are a few other factors to consider when facing a commercial handrail repair or replacement. This vlog will explore a few of the things to think about when fixing or replacing commercial handrails.  1. Is the Railing for a Walkway, Stairwell, or Balcony? Commercial handrails are different depending on where they are placed, per OSHA Standards. Various locations in buildings have different requirements.  Walkways – Walkway handrails are required to have a projection no more than 4.5.” Circular railings must have a diameter between 0.25 – 2 inches. Non-circular rails require a perimeter of at least 4” but no more than 6.25”, and they must run along the elevation. Stairwell – Railings running along a stairwell must be 30 inches above the ground while going along its elevation. A circular railing should be at least 1.25”, but no more than 2 ⅝” in diameter. Non-circular railings should have edges with a .125” radius. Balconies – Railings along balconies must be at least 30” from the surface. Railings on balconies must have balusters and an ornamental…

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Jan 13 2022
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commercial_handrail_installation

What Are Commercial Handrail Installation Services and Why an Expert Is Key

By | Commercial Handrail Installation

Commercial buildings are required to have handrails installed on the premises. Per OSHA guidelines, railings must address fall hazards, especially on rooftops. From a consumer’s point of view, this may seem like a trivial issue. However, commercial handrails are a vital part of any public establishment to ensure that the customers are safe within the confines of the building. Depending on the area of the structure, OSHA also dictates the materials used and dimensions of commercial handrail installation. On top of installing commercial handrails, it’s important to periodically get them inspected by a professional and subsequently get them repaired or replaced if necessary. For example, commercial handrail installation might not seem as important as laying the foundation of a building. However, ensuring the safety and security of the public who utilize the facilities in the building Is very important. What Are Commercial Handrails and Where Are They Required? Commercial handrails are railings that support people as they navigate through an establishment. Commercial buildings are required to install as per OSHA regulations. Handrails are required along staircases, along with mid-rails, which should be placed halfway between the handrail and the surface for reinforcement. Mid-rails can also provide support for small children who need  it. Commercial handrail installation is also required on rooftops and must be between 39 to 45 inches above the surface. Railings must be made of durable material with a smooth texture to avoid injuries. The diameter of the handrail should be at least one-quarter-inch thick. It is best…

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Jan 11 2022
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emergency_leak_repairs

What to Expect in Emergency Leak Repairs

By | Waterproofing

Commercial building maintenance will inevitably encounter emergency leak repairs in the structure’s building envelope. While commercial building flood damages account for more than $13 billion annually, as reported by CNBC, there’s another way that water infiltration can enter and damage your building: in the building envelope. Whether damage to the building envelope occurs over time or swiftly, in some cases an emergency repair might be essential. Knowing when it is time to replace commercial windows and doors and when temporary repairs will suffice is crucial for building owners to the total cost of ownership.  What Are Emergency Leak Repairs and Their Typical Causes? Unfortunately, no one is safe when it comes to building and maintenance repairs. Situations like commercial roof flashing system failure or cracks in concrete that will sabotage the building’s envelope will develop in a matter of time. Emergency leak repairs keep everything functioning temporarily, and if done correctly, they will fix the issue. Emergency repairs happen when the weather, age, physical damage, and broken windows or doors wear down the building and the protective layers and coatings. Erosion and decay occur naturally, but everyday use and poor weather conditions can accelerate these problems. In addition to these issues, faulty HVAC systems, sprinkler systems, and unchecked damages on the roof and windows can lead to untimely repairs. It can be unpredictable at times, so getting ahead of the issues is best.   Steps Common in Emergency Leak Repairs A few common steps can be helpful when tackling these repairs….

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Jan 06 2022
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how_to_avoid_leaks_when_making_window_repairs

How to Avoid Leaks When Making Window and Door Repairs

By | Commercial Windows

Commercial buildings are significant energy  consumers in the United  States, but much of that energy goes to waste. As reported by Energy.Gov, “On average, 30% of the energy used in commercial buildings is wasted.” It’s equally important to recognize that such waste doesn’t derive solely from lighting systems. The HVAC (heating, ventilation, air cooling, and ventilation) system is responsible for maintaining indoor temperature and humidity levels. Leaking windows may result in a greater delta in the indoor air temperature and introduce ample humidity to the building. Such factors increase the risk of mold and mildew growth, putting building occupants’ safety at risk. Meanwhile, making window repairs is not simply about choosing the cheapest glass panes, and building owners and managers need to know a few things about how to avoid leaks when making window repairs to maximize return on investment.  Know the Status of Your Windows and Door Repairs The first true step to making proper improvements and knowing how to avoid leaks when making window repairs begins with a thorough evaluation of the building’s status and needs. Building managers cannot really understand the full scale and size of window repair needs without regular, scheduled inspections. Such inspections should consider the risk of air or water penetration, the age of the window, and whether such conditions have damaged the adjoining structural components.  Choose the Proper Glazing or Sealant Choosing the correct glazing and sealants is another factor in completing proper commercial window repairs or replacements. Glazing is comparable to a…

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