Retrofitting existing versus building new

By Frank Melo

Commercial and industrial building owners have long recognized the value of retrofitting and updating their current facilities versus demolition and re-building. It’s a proven approach, and it’s become much more popular – especially in the last two decades since governments across Canada have begun offering subsidies. Real estate owners need to consider the financial and structural benefits of undertaking a retrofit. 

Visit the Summit Steel Buildings services page about revitalizing older buildings to learn more.

The concept of building revitalization is certainly not a new one: restoring functional although “tired” or inadequately performing structures has been going on for ages. What is new are factors such as rising real estate prices, a lack of available property in urban centres, and the high cost of downtime when interrupting business operations to relocate. What is also new is the use of pre-engineering, which makes the process of updating an older structure much quicker and more affordable. Specifically, the argument to retrofit what’s already in use, rather than build new or move to a new location, is stronger than ever.

Primary reasons to retrofit an existing structure

Updating a poorly performing building is not limited to older structures. Even newer facilities may suffer from performances issues if they are not installed properly or made using less efficient materials, such as wood or brick, rather than steel. Often occupants and managers do not notice flaws in building performance until after occupation.

• Energy efficiency: A top concern for any type of commercial, industrial or institutional facility should be its energy efficiency to help lower overall utility usage and heating/cooling costs. Proper retrofitting, utilizing appropriate and high-quality materials and installation, can effectively eliminate drafts, increase R-value, and improve interior comfort. It becomes an investment in the facility, which over time can pay for itself in reduced energy costs. It becomes a very sensible alternative to expending more time and energy on inefficient HVAC systems. Be sure to research government programs that will subsidize the costs of improving your energy rating. Those programs may include funding to help offset the price of retrofitting your pre-engineered building.

• Ensuring proper hygienic conditions: Building restoration can also address other building performance issues. Upgrading fire resistance, increasing soundproofing and defence against outside pests and bacteria are important considerations for business operations, especially in food processing or storage and other types of manufacturing. Other building concerns include preventing mould and adding better water drainage. “Tightening up” the building through the revitalizing process can effectively improve building performance, while also extending its service life and increasing its resale value.

• Maintaining appearance: Exterior and interior retrofit upgrades also enhance a building visually and aesthetically. Improved curb appeal, for instance, is often an important factor in brand management, attracting clients and motivating employes. Restoration in a pre-engineered metal building includes upgrading components such as siding, widows and entry ways. A deteriorated and unsightly exterior façade can be affordably and easily addressed through the building retrofit process.

And let’s not forget about repairing routine damage that regularly happens during industrial and commercial activity, particularly when it involves heavy machinery, motorized vehicles and large equipment. Vehicles run into things and loads of materials get dropped. Metal walls can get bent; concrete floors get cracked; exterior panels get vandalized. Many buildings can stand to benefit from routine updates to fix these situations when they arise.

An experienced partner extends the lifespan of your building investment

Economic times demand that building owners and managers get the most out of their building investment by seeking out the most cost-effective operational and management solutions. A building retrofit that improves efficiency, usability and building comfort is an excellent decision – one that increases performance and extends the lifespan of your existing structure.

Summit Steel Buildings takes pride in our ability to help building owners identify building performance issues and to provide quality solutions, which address them without the need for large-scale demolition. Our belief in pre-engineered building systems means older structures from any manufacturer can be easily and affordably corrected, repaired, replaced or expanded.

We’ve been supplying and constructing steel buildings for years, but what is less well known is our ability to retrofit existing buildings, regardless of their original construction or design. We have the expertise in diagnosing the causes of issues and have the materials and methods to provide a wide range of building retrofit services, including re-skinning. It’s one of the most effective ways to quickly improve aesthetics and energy efficiency. 

Our team works with clients every step of the way, from the first discussion to the appraisal of their specific needs, the setting of budgets, and through to the execution of the work. Summit Steel Buildings is more than pleased to discuss the specifics of your facility to assess how we might be able to assist you in upgrading it through a retrofit approach. Contact us online or by email to get started.