Routine Cleaning Tips for Commercial Polyurethane Flooring

Does your commercial building have polyurethane hardwood floors? From basketball and handball courts, to conference rooms, libraries, lobbies, and more, if you want your polyurethane-treated floors to look brand new for as long as possible, it is important to take great care of them.

Continue below to learn one of the most predominately-used methods to clean and care for commercial polyurethane hardwood floors, and who to call for trusted commercial floor replacement and renovations when your floors are past the point of no return.

Indianapolis Commercial Flooring Replacement
Indianapolis Commercial Flooring Replacement and Renovations 317-253-0531

Approved Floor Cleaning Products and Supplies for Polyurethane Wood

Polyurethane finish is a liquid resin coating, either oil or water-based, that is specially designed for wood flooring, although it also comes in versions applicable for other wood surface finishing, like cabinets and furniture.For this reason, polyurethane hardwood floors require a higher level of care and attention. And although such flooring is considered water-resistant, most professionals insist that you use water VERY SPARINGLY and avoid spills and water leaks to the best of your ability.

To get started, you will need a few supplies and items to clean polyurethane hardwood floors. First, be sure to have a clean and dry microfiber cloth on hand. Also, procure a dry mop or vacuum mop. This will come in handy for various other cleaning purposes for the office as well. Aside from a dry cloth and mop, be sure to have access to a clean water supply, a bucket, store-bought wood floor cleaner (optional), and some mild dish soap.

WARNING: Never use water to clean lacquered or shellacked hardwood floors!

How to Clean Commercial Polyurethane Hardwood Flooring:

Fill the bucket up with clean, fresh water. Add two to three drops of dish soap. Use more drops for extra-large surface areas. Set out all your needed supplies so they are ready to be used when you need them.

Use the dry mop or vacuum to sweep up all the tangible dirt, debris, and additional solid particles on the surface of the hardwood. You need a clean and clear surface to properly wash hardwood floors.

Dip your mop into your water and soap solution to mildly dampen it. Be sure to ring out any excess water. Proceed to mop along the grain using smooth and even strokes.

Once the mopping is done, buff the floors using a dry cloth to absorb any leftover soapy residues. You will need to use your hands for this step, and wipe in a circular motion until the floor is dry. 

To further polish your commercial hardwood floors, apply a store-bought wood floor cleaner in the same manner, using circular motions until all streaks are gone. If you do not wish to use a wood floor cleaner, simply use another clean cloth to wipe down the floors in a circular motion until they shine!

One of the best products to invest in for any commercial office with hardwood floors is furniture pads. Not only do they provide an easy and effortless way of moving or clearing furniture out of the way for cleaning purposes, but they also prevent unsightly and difficult-to-repair floor scuffs and scratches.

Do You Need Commercial Floor Replacement or Renovation?

Sometimes, hardwood floors are past the point of no return, especially in commercial buildings and businesses with higher rates of foot traffic, or indoor and outdoor passing areas. In such cases, it is wise for business and building owners to hire a licensed Indianapolis commercial general contractor for specialty commercial floor repair and replacement services. They retain the proper training, resources, tools, and certifications to professionally assess, demolition, and replace all flooring types for commercial properties.

Are the floors in your commercial building damaged or deteriorated? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 to speak with a seasoned Indianapolis IN commercial general contractor about the best commercial flooring options for your business or property.

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How to Detect Non-Load Bearing and Load Bearing Walls

In the remodeling and construction industry, there are two main kinds of walls: load bearing walls and non-load bearing walls. Understanding the difference between the two is critical. Cutting into the wrong wall can result in serious structural damages, and even whole-house cave-ins!  Before taking the step of removing or cutting any wall in your property, you must learn the difference between bearing and non-bearing walls, and how to accurately identify them from one another.

Continue below to learn how to distinguish between a load bearing and non-load bearing wall, and where to find trusted commercial general contracting services when the job is too big for you to take on alone.

Indianapolis Commercial Building Renovations
Indianapolis Commercial Building Renovations 317-253-0531

Load Bearing vs. Non-Load Bearing Walls

Non-Load Bearing Walls

Non-load bearing walls are walls inside a property that do not support any structural weight of a building. They do not bear any other weight of the property’s structure other than its own. Also referred to as “curtain walls”, non-bearing walls are used primarily as room dividers, and generally serve no other purpose.

They can be easily identified by simply looking at the joists and rafters in your attic or basement. If they run parallel to the wall, they are most likely non-load bearing walls. You can do whatever you like to non-load bearing walls since they are not responsible for the gravitational support for your property. But removing, or even cutting into, a load-bearing wall can be a dangerous and costly mistake.

Load Bearing Walls

In contrast to non-bearing walls, load bearing walls are erected to provide structural support for a residential or commercial property. It is possible to bring down an entire edifice by removing or cutting into just one load-bearing wall! So be sure you know the difference between the two in order to avoid jeopardizing your property’s structural stability.

If the rafters or joists in your basement or attic run perpendicular to the wall in question, they are most likely load-bearing. It is wise to consult an Indianapolis commercial general contractor about your remodeling and renovation needs. They can guide you through the process of setting a budget, organizing services, and ensuring quality results.

Are you ready to move forward with some commercial remodeling work for your office or building? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for superior commercial general contracting in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve clients all throughout the state of Indiana.

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Can Good Office Lighting Improve Employee Productivity?

When it comes to owning a company, the old adage, “there is always room for improvement” rings true at all times. After all, all improvements ultimately increase your bottom line. As for employee productivity, well, there’s always room for improvement. A new commercial office construction trend that has proven to be effective in increasing employee throughput is strategic office lighting design. But can good office lighting really improve employee efficiency?

Continue reading to learn more, including who to trust for superior Indianapolis Indiana commercial office remodeling and renovation work.

Office Building Renovations Indianapolis Indiana
Office Building Renovations Indianapolis Indiana 317-253-0531

Office Lighting Considerations for Staff Efficiency

Whether you are a current company owner with an existing office or one who is preparing to undertake a new space, office lighting and design should be one of your top priorities because it plays a vital role in the efficiency and morale of your staff. This means that office lighting, when done properly, can have a huge impact on the success of your business.

Recent studies have shown that employees and staffs within various professional industries are happier at work, more productive and healthier overall. Good office lighting supports staff contentment, which renters hire employee attendance and job satisfaction, and even reduce the number of workplace accidents.

Aside from employee satisfaction and office productivity, good lighting design can also reduce monthly energy bills by increasing the energy efficiency within the office. Although it typically suggested to begin office lighting considerations early on in the renovation planning process, a trusted Indianapolis commercial general contractor can remodel your current space to include an office lighting layout that promotes success.

Lighting Options for a Commercial Office

With the help of a commercial general contracting team well-versed and experienced with office design and remodeling, you won’t have to feel the overwhelming panic of choosing between all the possible commercial lighting options on the market. Common options include natural office lighting, adjustable lighting, fluorescent lighting, LED lighting, and other kinds of artificial lighting.

The type of lighting most compatible with your business objectives will depend on how your office space is used and any smart lighting or energy technologies you would like to incorporate into your office renovation. Other factors that come into play when choosing office lighting design options can include the type of color and temperature you’re looking for, as well as any unique architectural structures or features within your space.

It is also important to consider the wide spectrum of lighting, as choosing the wrong balance of color and temperature can affect your employees negatively. For instance, bright white and blue lighting can keep your employees sharp and alert, but also cause for head tension, migraines, and eyestrain. Oppositely, warm yellow lighting can promote relaxation, which can lead to drowsiness and decreased motivation.

Are you looking for a trusted commercial remodeling company can help you improve the lighting with your office space? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 to speak with a licensed general contractor about your options for office-use construction in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Why Commercial Properties Benefit From EDPM Rubber Roofs

Flat and low-pitched roofing systems are not always the best candidates for conventional asphalt shingles. Fortunately, the commercial roofing industry caught on to this disadvantage some time ago, and now offers a terrific alternative for commercial proprietors and real estate developers in need of a long-lasting, dependable roof system. Of course, we are talking about EDPM rubber roofing!

Continue reading to learn more about the various benefits of rubber roofing, and how you can find a rubber roofing contractor near you.

Indianapolis Commercial Remodeling and Roof Replacement
Indianapolis Commercial Remodeling and Roof Replacement 317-253-0531

The Benefits of Commercial Rubber Roofing

Rubber roofing is a modern, innovative solution for a long-lasting and durable roofing system for commercial properties and outdoor structures that have flat or low-pitched roofs. Flat roofs have a slope below 10 degrees, while low-pitched roofs have a slope that is nearly level, but still slightly pitched. Pitch refers to the slant, angle, and slope of a roof.

Since flat roofs have special requirements, namely in terms of drainage and waterproofing, it is important to use a quality material that is effective against these elements of roof engineering and more. Rubber roofing systems are the perfect solution for commercial buildings with flat and low-pitched rooftops because they provide a water-tight seal and enhanced visual appeal, all at the same time.

Rubber roofing is referred to as EDPM roofing, which stands for ethylene propylene diene terpolymer. This material is a highly effective commercial roofing option because it is waterproof, lightweight, quick and easy to install, highly durable, long-lasting, and inexpensive. Furthermore, commercial rubber roofs are low maintenance and easy and inexpensive to repair.

Additional Advantages of Rubber Roofs

A more tightly sealed and secure roof means less wasted heat and air, which cuts monthly energy costs little by little, each year. Rubber roofs are also energy efficient because the materials used in the process reflect sun and heat. This keeps a commercial building or edifice cooler in warmer climates and saves on energy costs. Aside from all these delightful benefits, commercial rubber roofs are great alternatives because they are fire-resistant and less likely to crack. Their durability allows them to withstand harsh weather conditions and changing climates, year after year.

Does your building require some roof work or remodeling this year? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for qualified commercial general contracting in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve clients all throughout Indiana.

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How to Increase Rental Property Income With Commercial Renovation

Your rental property is meant for one thing: income. Otherwise, you would just sell it or live in it! But as a rental property owner, you might want to consider a removal or renovation to increase your earnings. Worried this might be out of your budget? You’ll be relieved to discover that there are plenty of ways to execute an update or renovation economically.

Continue reading to learn some advice on how to increase rental property income through smart renovating, and who to call for commercial general contracting in Indianapolis.

Indiana Commercial General Contracting 317-253-0531
Indiana Commercial General Contracting 317-253-0531

Improve Your Bottom Line Through Smart Commercial Remodeling

Repairs and Replacements

Start by looking through your property. Do you see anything that is on its last leg, already broken, or exceedingly outdated? If so, you should fix or replace whatever needs attention. This includes electrical systems, appliances, plumbing, molding, baseboards, paint, doors, windows, locks, lights, patios, porches, decks, and anything else you can lay your eyes or hands on. This step alone can increase your rental income, instantly.

Enhanced Amenities

After making all necessary repairs and replacements, consider adding or updating some existing amenities. For instance, if the current shower head causes poor water pressure, update it to a more modern version. Update other simple plumbing fixtures too, like faucets and even cabinet handles and doorknobs. Other areas to update include light fixtures, lighting, and mirrors.

Larger Renovations

Next, consider the condition of your property. Does it need new flooring? Perhaps the carpets need replaced? Does it have outdated counters or bathrooms? Is the kitchen old or closed-concept? How’s the wall paint? There are likely several areas of improvement that can be conquered through renovations. Many will instantly update and increase the value of your rental property. Renovations can also include door and window replacement, conversions, space additions, and more.

Health and Safety

Consider renovating to incorporate some innovative modifications that will reduce the spread of germs and bacteria. Some current, popular options include copper surfaces, automatic doors, and other kinds of touch-free options like hand soap dispensers, automatic hand sanitizer dispensers, ionized air conditioning technology, recycling shoots and compactors, and even solar energy applications.

Are you interested in commercial remodeling services for your office or business in Indiana? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for Indianapolis Indiana commercial general contracting construction you can trust. We serve Indianapolis, and all of Central Indiana.

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5 Advantages of an Exterior Facade Renovation

There are many best business practices out there, some of which can be applied across the board regardless of industry, while others are more trade specific. However, one of the most fundamental and long-established methods for running a successful business is curb appeal. A business that looks good tends to drive in more traffic, which is something you want as a commercial proprietor or company owner.

If you are looking for more customers, perhaps consider renovating the exterior of your business. Continue reading to learn the top five advantages for exterior façade renovation, and who call for the most trusted commercial general contracting service in central Indiana.

Indianapolis Commercial Remodeling 317-253-0531
Indianapolis Commercial Remodeling 317-253-0531

Curb Appeal Commercial Renovation

The type of brick-and-mortar business you own really doesn’t matter when it comes to curb appeal commercial renovations. From hotels and apartment complexes, to museums, strip malls, shopping centers, schools, office buildings, restaurants, and everything in between, an exterior façade commercial remodel is never a poor choice for any type of business that once more customers to the door. There are many advantages to renovating the exterior of your commercial building or office.

Here are 5 reasons why you should consider an exterior façade renovation for your business:

A RENEWED LOOK

Not only do you want to keep your brand appealing for your existing clientele, but you also wanted to be eye-catching for new customers. Giving your businesses exterior a fresh, new look can drive more traffic through your doors. Some methods of achieving a fresh look include innovative technology incorporation, touch free design, painted drywall remodeling, interior design, improve lighting, natural lighting, open concept floor plans, and more. These elements can deliver an improved customer experience, and therefore increase your bottom line.

BUSINESS DOORS CAN STAY OPEN

Because commercial façade renovations are typically done on the outside of the business, and infrequently require indoor access, most projects will render minimal inconvenience to the business operations and their clientele. Basically, it is easy to keep the business open and operating while exterior commercial renovation is underway. Furthermore, when you choose a reputable Indianapolis Indiana general contracting company, you can trust that they use a strict internal safety code to ensure that all persons on premises are protected from foreseeable hazards.

FAST TURNAROUND TIMES

What’s great about commercial façade renovations are that they tend to come with speedy turnaround times. Not only can exterior renovations be done while your business’s doors are still open and operating, but they can also be done within a convenient time-frame, which is always beneficial to your bottom line. Usually, contractors do not even require indoor access to complete their work specifications.

OPPORTUNITY TO REDUCE OPERATING COSTS

When you choose to have an exterior façade remodel done, you have a valuable opportunity to incorporate certain upgrades and renovations that can reduce your overall operating costs in the long run. Such renovations include energy efficiency upgrades for insulation, windows, lighting, and roofing. These upgrades can improve your business energy efficiency, and therefore reduce monthly utility and operating costs.

MUNICIPAL INCENTIVES

In some cases, local municipalities will award business certain incentives, grants, and assistance programs for upgrading or renovating their exterior façade. Check with your local County District or clerk’s office to see if there any municipal incentives that you could earn for doing a commercial exterior renovation.

Are you ready to get started with your commercial exterior renovation in Indiana? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for superior commercial remodeling services in Indianapolis Indiana. We serve clients all throughout the state.

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How to Replace a Torn Window Screen in the Office

Window screens serve many essential purposes, so it is important to keep them intact all year long.  Routine window maintenance in the office is necessary to achieve top quality indoor climate control, as well as optimal energy efficiency and cleanliness. This is beneficial to your staff’s productivity and overall health, as well as any clients, customers, or visitors present. In the case of a torn window screen, it is wise to replace it as soon as possible to preserve and protect your office’s indoor air environment, as well as reduce your energy consumption. This is especially important during spring and summer seasons when indoor and outdoor allergens are more severe. The better your staff feels, the better they can perform, which is in the best interest of your bottom line!

As an office manager or business owner, it is wise to learn how to replace a torn or broken window screen. Continue below for a quick guide that will prepare you for the next time a screen rips in the office, and what to do if your windows are just not as efficient as they used to be.

Indianapolis IN Commercial Window Replacement
Indianapolis IN Commercial Window Replacement 317-253-0531

What You Need to Get Started With Window Screen Replacement

First gather all the necessary tools and supplies for the job. Fortunately, everything you will need is easily attainable any local hardware or home improvement store, and even online at trusted retailers. Best of all, these materials should be inexpensive. You will need a new window screen of course, but here are the remaining tools and supplies required for the job:

▷ New Spline (Rubber String)
▷ Two-Sided Rolling Spline Tool (Should Come with Spline)
▷ Utility Knife
▷ Flathead Screwdriver
▷ Clean Cloth or Rag
▷ Duct Tape
▷ Scissors

Window Screen Replacement Guide:

Once you have accumulated all the necessary tools and materials, you can get started by removing the window screen with frame from the window. Find a hard flat surface to work on and place the screen and frame there. Continue with the following steps:

Remove the existing spline from the window frame.

Once the spline is removed, the screen detaches easily. Use the head of the screwdriver to pry the screen from the frame if you have trouble disconnecting it.

Take your clean cloth and wipe down the bare frame, removing all the dirt in the grooves. To do this, place the cloth over the tip of the screwdriver and drag the flat head along the inside of the grooves.

Use the duct tape to secure the frame in place on all sides so that it cannot move.

Now you are ready to measure out a piece of new screen. Cut it larger than the surrounding width and height of the window frame.

Position the new screening over the window frame so that the entire frame is covered and then some. Hold in place with duct tape on the top side for added stability for the next step.

Use the convex side of the rolling spline tool to guide the new spline along the spline grooves in the window frame. Do this for the entire perimeter of the frame. For corners, use the flat head screwdriver to push the spline into place.

Once you reach the end, cut the spline with scissors.

Now go back over the perimeter of the spline again but with the concave side of the roller tool.

Trim the excess screen off with your utility knife right above the top of the spline while holding down the screen as you cut. Hold the knife at a 45-degree angle and cut in a steady firm motion.

Slip the frame back into the window by pushing up and in, securing the metal window clips.

Commercial Window Repair and Replacement

If you have a large-scale commercial window repair and replacement project on your hands, call a licensed Indianapolis commercial general contractor for professional and prompt service. They retain the proper tools, training, labor, and resources to undertake an office window replacement and repair job in a time frame that’s convenient for you.

Are you ready to learn how to improve your profits and reach your overall business objectives through an office remodel or renovation? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for office use construction or commercial window repair and replacement services in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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General Contractor Advice for Commercial Building Repairs and Maintenance

Commercial buildings like retail stores, banks, offices, and even housing complexes, need regular cleaning and upkeep to support strength, increase longevity, protect curb appeal, and safeguard the overall investment value. Just like a vehicle, a building also needs regular maintenance and periodic repairs to stay in optimal condition. Not only does routine maintenance and repair protect a commercial proprietor’s investment, but it also protects any guests, residents, customers, or visitors that enter the premises every day.

So, what type of maintenance does a building require, and how often? Continue reading to learn about building maintenance and care, and where to find trusted commercial general contracting and facility maintenance service in Central Indiana.

Commercial Building Facility Maintenance
Indianapolis Commercial Building Renovations and Facility Maintenance 317-253-0531

Standard Building and Premises Maintenance

A commercial building and surrounding complex come with several maintenance requirements, and eventually will require some common and predictable repairs along the way. It is important for building managers to inspect and assess a property’s condition on a regular basis, for safety reasons and to avoid larger and more costly disasters down the road.

Regular building maintenance can stop a small problem from becoming a large and expensive problem, or worse, a liability. This can include aesthetic damages like peeling paint or wallpaper, broken floorboards, crumbling concrete, holes in drywall, and more. But it can also include plumbing and electrical repairs, structural repairs, siding repairs, and more.

Expected Facility Maintenance and Repair for a Building:

Broken Stuff

When a door jams, a lock sticks, a window cracks, or a toilet clogs, an appointed facility maintenance team can find a solution right away. They can fix broken desk drawers, busted hinges, ripped carpet, and much more. More maintenance repair needs include everything from office equipment and lighting, to major components like escalators, elevators, and security equipment. There is no end to the type of maintenance and repair needed daily, especially for larger properties.

Large properties like shopping malls, movie theaters, hospitals, apartment complexes, and office buildings are guaranteed to need a repair almost every day. It is vital for all repairs to be fixed to avoid workers’ compensation claims, lawsuits, and more. It is suggested to keep a record of all the needed repairs over a month’s time, and then at the end of every month, call a trusted commercial facility maintenance general contracting company to resolve them all at once.

Lost Items

A commercial facility maintenance contractor retains the tools and resources to replace door locks, doorknobs, lost keys, security codes, and more. Most maintenance workers retain copies of office keys and can make a new one for someone that misplaced theirs; however, if your building does not have in-house maintenance staff, you are left to deal with these responsibilities on your own. If an automatic security lock is being stubborn, a commercial facility maintenance service provider can usually find the override codes and fix the problem. This always ensures protection over the building.

Emergency Repairs

Disasters happen and commercial buildings are no stranger to the feeling. Water leaks, flooding, no heat, no electricity, and more are all areas in which a commercial facility maintenance contractor can save the day. They retain the training, knowledge, and equipment to quickly combat these kinds of disasters and get the building back in order, as soon as possible. Even a busted office window can count as an emergency when its 30 below outside! In this case, they can replace the glass or provide a temporary solution while waiting for the window warranty company to arrive.

Are you looking for a trusted commercial facility maintenance contractor in Indiana? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 to speak with an experienced Indianapolis commercial general contracting professional who can help you meet your overall business objectives through optimized office remodeling and facility maintenance.

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Indianapolis Commercial General Contracting and Design Build Services
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