What to Expect From the Post Construction Phase

After your commercial construction team plans, designs, and builds your commercial property from the ground up, the project doesn’t stop there, nor does your relationship with your contractors. In fact, neither ever really come to completion since your building will always require on-going care and professional consideration. You see, the next stages of a commercial construction project, following the construction work, involve a final cleanup, as well as, post-occupancy facility maintenance. Both services are incorporated within your contract with your commercial construction company.

Continue below to learn what to expect from both stages of the post-construction phase.

Indianapolis Facility Maintenance and Management 317-253-0531
Indianapolis Facility Maintenance and Management 317-253-0531

Construction Site Cleanup Phase

When the work is done, and the builders clear out all of their tools, equipment, and supplies, there is still a mess to clean up. Dust, fingerprints, footprints, smudges, and similar imperfections are left behind from the construction process, and will need to be cleaned and treated. Furthermore, areas, like bathrooms and kitchens, will require additional sanitizing. As included in a full-service commercial construction plan, your general contracting team will enlist the right division to deliver a spotless finish for your building.

Commercial Construction Site Cleanup Generally Entails:

➲ Factory Sticker Peeling (new windows, appliances, etc.)
➲ Garbage/Debris Removal
➲ Interior/Exterior Deep Sweep
➲ Full Dusting (ceiling pipes, light fixtures, vents, etc.)
➲ Detail Cleaning of All Surfaces
➲ Floor Buffing/Waxing
➲ Vacuuming/Mopping
➲ Restroom Sanitizing
➲ Appliance/Stainless Steel Polishing
➲ Window Ledges/Sills
➲ Elevator/Escalator Sanitizing
➲ General Polishing
➲ Power Washing
➲ Final Punch List
➲ White Glove Inspection

Post-Construction Facility Maintenance

Once your commercial building has passed its white glove inspection, your commercial contractors will initiate a smooth and effective turnover. However, your property will still need ongoing, specialized maintenance. Common facility maintenance services can include a wide range and scope of services, from electronic or mechanical system repairs and system updates, to routine building restorations, technology upgrades, cleaning, landscaping, sewage and septic repairs, master plumbing, and more. Such examples would be checking on electrical equipment and operations, inspecting mechanical equipment, painting, and repairing anything that may be defected, broken, or problematic.

Post-construction facility maintenance services sustain all systems and structures within a building. Your commercial construction company will set up a program, or remain available, to implement specialized maintenance work that cannot be performed by in-house custodial and day-porter staffs, such as electrician work, sign repair, and more. Rather than training and paying an in-house team to maintain and operate your building’s systems, simply rely on your commercial contractors instead. In fact, read our blog, “Why Use Your Commercial General Contractor for Facility Maintenance” to learn the unparalleled benefits of doing so.

Indianapolis Commercial General Contracting and Facility Maintenance

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial general contracting and facility maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. You can learn more about our services, or schedule a consultation to discuss your commercial construction and general contracting needs. We work with all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding areas.

Indianapolis Commercial General Contracting and Design Build Services
Contact Us Today 317-253-0531

Why is Commercial Real Estate Market Space Listed as Class A, B or C?

The commercial real estate market often assigns a specific class to leased spaces. Such spaces are listed as either Class A, Class B, or Class C. If you are on the market to lease a new commercial property, be sure you understand the difference between each type of space class before you sign the contract. This will help you predict how the leasing terms might affect your business’s operations or overall success.

Continue reading to review some details regarding all three classes of commercial real estate, and where to get the best industry advice on commercial space planning.

Indianapolis Commercial Space Planning and Construction
Indianapolis Commercial Space Planning and Construction 317-253-0531

Class A

Class A commercial real estate is usually the higher end of the market. These are properties that retain the highest quality attributes. Such attributes typically include factors like location, local public services, surrounding infrastructure, building finishes and features, and even the competence of the property’s management group. Common areas where you will find Class A commercial real estate are city centers, business districts, suburban business parks, and urban marketplaces.

Although Class A space is more catered to higher profile tenants, as well as national or regional companies, they can also be well-suited for local businesses. Keep in mind, this is the highest-priced type of commercial real estate. For this reason, many business owners lease this type of commercial space.

Class B

As you can imagine, Class B commercial real estate is much similar to Class A, but just a step down. Several Class B properties are simply older Class A properties. In other cases, a commercial space might be listed as Class B because it offers less amenities than a Class A space, or its location is at the edge of areas like city centers and business districts. Additional areas that typically have Class B commercial spaces include high-end strip malls, outdoor malls, and smaller office complexes.

It is very common to turn a Class B space into a Class A space with the right commercial space planning and general contracting services. Compared to Class A, Class B properties come with a more lenient price tag. In fact, they are well-suited for those who want to open a studio space.

Class C

Class C commercial real estate is on the lower end of commercial space. It is generally the least preferred type of commercial property to lease. These properties are usually located in run-down areas of town, surrounded by urban and suburban markets. Very few Class C spaces are turn-key, so although they are the cheapest commercial real estate to lease or buy, they will most likely need extensive renovation, which costs money.

Because of their poor locations and lack of profitable amenities, Class C commercial properties are not well-suited for many types of businesses and industries, especially luxury businesses like Pilates studios and esthetician spas.

Indianapolis Commercial Space Planning and Construction Professionals

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial space planning and construction services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

Indianapolis Commercial General Contracting and Design Build Services
Contact Us Today 317-253-0531

Tips for Choosing Commercial and Industrial Paint Colors

As a proprietor of a commercial or industrial property, you are faced with the responsibility of choosing the proper paint colors and coding for certain areas and materials within your complex. Although you can apply your own personal preference or business’s culture to interior drywall and painting, some areas require more specific colors for the purpose of safety.

Continue reading to review some of the recommended commercial and industrial paint colors, what they signify, and how you can get started with a professional update or remodel.

Indianapolis Commercial Paint and Drywall Contractors
Indianapolis Commercial Paint and Drywall Contractors 317-253-0531

Safety Colors and Codes

There are several areas inside a commercial or industrial property that might pose certain dangers or risks. For this reason, they must be clearly marked to inform and warn everyone around. Everything from low ceilings and scaffolding, to first aid stations, dangerous machinery, emergency exits, and more, are just a few common areas that are generally painting in code. Common safety colors include yellow, blue, red, orange, purple, and green.

Here is a quick guide to some common examples of safety colors:

Yellow – Yellow can denote physical hazards like scaffolding, low beams, railings, and more. It can also be used to denote heavy machinery and material handling equipment, such as hoists and cranes.

Red – Red is often used to signify fire protection systems and materials, such as fire alarms, extinguishers, and emergency exits. It is also commonly used for emergency stop buttons on heavy or dangerous machinery. Red is also the color of danger, and used to denote hazardous areas like safety barricades and dangerous materials.

Orange – Orange is commonly used to identify parts on machines that are dangerous, as well as, safety start and stop buttons, rollers, gears, and more.

Purple – Purple is a color mostly used to denote radiation dangers, such as burial storage rooms and contaminated cans or equipment.

Green – Green is used to signify first aid stations, safety kits, gas and oxygen masks, and similar medical care resources.

Blue – The color blue is mostly used to identify areas of electrical controls and systems, such as HVAC systems, compressors, high pressure pumps, ovens, and more. It is also used for special repair areas, like maintenance rooms and construction projects.

Pipe Colors and Codes

The ASA recommends using the colors yellow, red, blue, and green to mark certain pipes and piping systems. For instance:

Red – Fire suppression apparatuses and equipment, like extinguishers and sprinklers.

Yellow – Hazardous or toxic materials that are, or potentially, flammable, poisonous, corrosive, extremely high heat, or under extreme pressure.

Blue – Protective equipment and materials other than fire safety and suppression.

Green – Materials that are not poisonous nor hazardous, such as water, glycols, and similar moderately-tempered and pressured constituents.

Recommended Banding Colors and Codes

As a preferred industry standard, here are some suggested banding color codes for pipes in a commercial and industrial building:

Ammonia – Purple, Red, and Purple
Fuel/Oil – Yellow, Black, and Yellow
Gas – Yellow, Brown, and Yellow
Oxygen – Green Line and a Yellow Stripe
Compressed Air – Green, Aluminum, and Green
Steam/High-Pressure – White, Orange, and White
Steam/Low-Pressure – Orange, White, and Orange
Freon – Purple, Yellow, and Purple
Waste – Black Waste – Black

Commercial Painting and Drywall Contractors You Can Trust in Indiana

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial painting and drywall services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Whether you need new construction drywall installation, full-service interior painting, large-scale graffiti removal, or something in between, we are your solution to simple, effective, and affordable work you can trust. Our esteemed and experienced commercial general contractors serve corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, and throughout Central Indiana. Request free information or to schedule a consultation, anytime.

Indianapolis Commercial General Contracting and Design Build Services
Contact Us Today 317-253-0531

The Benefits of Natural Light in an Office Setting

Did you know that natural lighting can both increase productivity and enhance the overall well-being among employees and tenants in an office setting? Continue reading to learn all the proven benefits of incorporating natural light in your commercial office.

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

Staff Fatigue and Contentment

According to a study performed by the esteemed HR advisory and research firm, Future Workplace, the number one office perk that employees really want is access to natural light and outdoor views. In fact, another study carried out by Northwestern University, “Impacts of Workplace Daylight Exposure on Sleep, Physical Activity and Quality of Life,” demonstrated that working in an environment without windows has a detrimental impact on staff, which happens to be a “universal phenomenon” among employees who work in such conditions.

The Future Workplace did a study and found that 47% of employees surveyed reported feeling fatigued as a result of an absence of natural light or without a window. Additionally, 43% of those surveyed reported feeling melancholy because the office setting did not have sufficient natural lighting or windows. You can argue that fatigue and gloominess can be higher in office settings in which staff are staring at a computer, tablet, or phone screen for 4 or more hours a day. Too much screen time causes staff to long for a visual break.

More Studies Support Natural Light Benefits:

A study done by Ergonomics International Journal showed that natural lighting has visual health benefits. 51% of those surveyed reported reduced eye strain, 63% reported reduced headaches, and 56% reported less drowsiness.

A study performed by the Space Place, “Daylighting and Productivity: A Study of the Effects of the Indoor Environment on Human Function,” suggests that staff is more likely to show up for work if they are siting near a window or have outdoor views in the office.

Another study done by The Center for Healthcare Design suggests that exposure to natural light and windows aids in recovery from surgery and illness.

A study performed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, “A Literature Review of the Effects of Natural Light on Building Occupants” suggests that natural lighting improves productivity, reduces workplace accidents, enhances mental performance, supports sleep quality, and even raises morale among third-shift workers.

Studies performed Human Spaces showed that being close to natural elements like foliage and sunlight increased well-being and creativity among staff by 15%, and overall productivity by 6%.

According to Carbon Trust, resource efficiency experts, their recent study showed that 40% of a property’s electricity consumption is artificial lighting. This means that business owners can also reduce their monthly utility expenses by incorporated more natural lighting.

Top Suggested Benefits:

☑ Better Mood
☑ Higher Attendance
☑ Improved Performance and Productivity
☑ Less Workplace Accidents
☑ Better Sleep at Night
☑ Improved Vision Health
☑ Reduced Electricity Usage

Too Much Light Can Have the Opposite Effect…

It is important to understand that, on the other end of the spectrum, lighting can have negative effects in the office. Too much, or uncontrolled, light, whether natural or artificial, can cause extreme heat, excessive glare, and similar environmental discomforts that can impact staff productivity and morale. It can even trigger medical conditions, like epilepsy.

Want More Natural Light in Your Commercial Office in Indiana?

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial general contractor services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors can help you add more natural lighting into your office or commercial building. We serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

Indianapolis Commercial General Contracting and Design Build Services
Contact Us Today 317-253-0531

5 Common Types of Commercial Contractors and What They Do

When you have a commercial design build or renovation project, your first priority is to hire the right contractor for the job. But with so many builders out there, from general and specialty contractors, to architects, designers, and more, how do you know which contractor is the right one for the job?

One way to help clear up the confusion is to simply learn the actual differences among them. Once you have this knowledge, you can better begin your search for a commercial contractor that can be trusted to meet your overall design build and construction needs. Continue below to get started.

Indianapolis Design Build Commercial Construction
Indianapolis Design Build Commercial Construction 317-253-0531

Commercial Construction Professionals

The 5 most common types of contractors you will come across in the commercial construction industry include general contractors, specialty contractors, design build contractors, architects, and engineers. Of course, there are various other building and construction professionals in the industry, but these five are the main experts you will work with to plan and implement your commercial construction project. You might only hire one, all, or a combination depending on your specific project needs.

👷 General Contractors – A professional general contractor manages and coordinates all aspects of a construction project, from space planning and permitting, to design, build, and even post-occupancy facility maintenance. They also hire and supervise all other laborers and subcontractors.

👷 Specialty Contractors – A specialty contractor is the same as a general contractor, but only in a specific industry or skill. For instance, there are contractors that specialize solely in patio and porch builds. There are pool contractors, landscaping contractors, plumbing contractors, and more.

👷 Design Build Contractors – A designer, or design build contractor, is a professional who basically has the role of designer and general contractor. They manage and coordinate all aspects of a commercial construction project, including the interior space planning, design, and function.

👷 Architects – An architect is a formally-trained, specialized builder who designs spaces, buildings, and complexes, whether from the ground up, or for major renovations, conversions, and remodels. Generally, they work alongside the project general contractor to meet all specifications.

👷 Engineers – An engineer is another formally-trained and certified professional who analyze, design, build, test, and often times, invent, machines, facility systems, buildings, and devices, for the purpose of meeting certain functional objectives.

Indianapolis Commercial Construction Management

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial construction management services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors deliver a streamlined construction process that meets all defined engineering and design specifications, procurement, schedules, and budgets. We serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

Indianapolis Commercial General Contracting and Design Build Services
Contact Us Today 317-253-0531

When a Commercial Renovation Should Include a Fire Suppression System Upgrade

As a commercial business owner, you know that at some point, your facility will face a need for a facelift. From appliance and technology upgrades, to interior design, energy efficient applications, organization, and function, there are various aspects to address and perhaps incorporate into your upcoming commercial renovation. However, many proprietors overlook the need to upgrade their automatic fire suppression sprinkler systems.

Today, commercial sprinklers are significantly more high-tech than they were a decade ago, and many laws regarding code requirements have changed over the years. So, if you have not upgraded your commercial fire suppression sprinkler system within the last 5 to 10 years, now might be a good time to do your research.

Continue reading to learn what to consider when deciding whether or not to add a fire suppression sprinkler system upgrade into your commercial renovation project.

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

Commercial Fire Suppression Systems

An automatic fire suppression system is installed in a commercial building for the purpose of slowing down flame development and dispersion, as well as, putting out flames. These systems detect smoke and fire, and then automatically activate in the presence of flames. You simply cannot verbally define the critical importance of maintaining a quality fire suppression sprinkler system, as they are proven to save lives and reduce structural damage.

Not only do they allow guests and employees more time to evacuate a burning building, it also makes the job easier and safer for fire fighters. Furthermore, by mitigating fire danger and damage, you can get your commercial building back on track faster, which reduces your loss of income. Overall, a commercial sprinkler system will save you a significant amount of money, protect your occupants, and safeguard your business from certain liability.

When to Consider an Upgrade:

🔥 Your commercial renovation increases your facility’s fire area to over 5,000 square feet.

🔥 A single-tenant expansion that requires a new Certificate of Occupancy extends a facility’s fire area over 12,000 square feet.

🔥 The area being renovated generates another code regulation update for your commercial sprinkler system.

Building Sprinkler Codes and Regulations

As mentioned, local, state, and federal guidelines and building codes for automatic fire suppression systems have undergone some changes within the past decade. These codes and requirements can be quite complex, and even challenging to meet without the proper experience, equipment, and acumen. For instance, they must they extend through an entire facility and offer maximum coverage. All water supply valves must be visible and easily accessible. If fire pumps are necessary, they must be stored in a separate facility, or in a room that is fire-rated with exterior access.

For these reasons and more, it is important to enlist the job to a licensed commercial general contracting company in order to ensure the upgrades are perfectly up to code. If the job were to be done incorrectly, as the business owner, you would face a load of costly delays and unanticipated budget increases. But how do you get started learning what it will take to upgrade your commercial fire sprinkler system? Simply contact a licensed commercial construction management company for professional bids and advice you can trust.

Indianapolis Commercial General Contracting You Can Trust

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial construction services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

Indianapolis Commercial General Contracting and Design Build Services
Contact Us Today 317-253-0531

The Value of Hybrid Flooring Systems for Commercial Real Estate

Beautiful flooring is typically an important element for most business owners. But beautiful floors should also be functional, which is why so many modern commercial real estate renovations and builds now incorporate hybrid flooring systems. Hybrid flooring systems, including terrazzo floor vitrification, are popular flooring options that well-suited for virtually all commercial buildings, complexes, and industries. Hybrid floors offer more than just a desirable and infinitely customizable aesthetic, they also deliver a wide range of benefits that are useful in achieving certain business objectives.

Continue reading to learn more about the valuable benefits of hybrid floor systems, including where to request a professional bid for commercial flooring service near you.

Commercial Flooring Services 317-253-0531
Commercial Flooring Services 317-253-0531

Hybrid Flooring Systems

Hybrid floors are an innovative flooring option made from nonporous materials like resin and porcelain tile, or laminate and vinyl. The process of installing hybrid floors involves the integration of such materials pressed together in layers to produce an extremely hard, monolithic surface. Not only are such floors customizable, coming in a wide array of colors, textures, and designs, they are also very low maintenance and last for many years. Floor vitrification is another type of hybrid flooring technology that uses a different installation process than resin and tile, and laminate and vinyl.

Floor Vitrification

Floor vitrification is the process in which a chemical conversion is applied to a highly polished terrazzo floor or surface. Terrazzo floors are a type of flooring that contains chips of marble, quartz, granite, glass, or other similar high-quality aggregate within a cement-based binder. The finished look is a bit groovy, with swirls and marble-like qualities that are simply stunning and 100% unique. Furthermore, the vitrification process creates a density upon the floor that protects it and maintains its aesthetic value. There are several benefits acquired using this type of process.

Whether inside or outside, hybrid flooring and floor vitrification can be a great option for almost any type of commercial property. Garages, plazas, lobbies, shopping malls, restaurants, hotels, museums, hospitals, medical buildings, and much more are great candidates for this innovative flooring.

Here a list of the primary benefits offered by hybrid flooring systems and floor vitrification for your commercial property:

🠚 Can Save Over 50% in Maintenance Costs!
🠚 Lighter Brighter Finish
🠚 Permanent Glossy Appearance
🠚 Chemical Resistant
🠚 Anti-Fungal & Anti-Bacterial
🠚 Slip-Resistant
🠚 Dirt-Free Grout Lines
🠚 Virtually Maintenance-Free
🠚 Minimal Absorption Rate
🠚 Lowest Cost of Ownership

Don’t Miss Out on Innovative Commercial Floor Options

Many business owners and commercial proprietors are not familiar with hybrid flooring systems when it comes time to choose materials for their floor renovation or new construction build. This causes them to miss out on all the wonderful and cost-effective benefits they have to offer. Talk to a local Indianapolis commercial construction contractor about your commercial flooring needs if you want to learn which options will best meet your overall business objectives.

Licensed Indianapolis Commercial Flooring Contractors

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial flooring services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Whether you are having commercial floors installed for a new business, or to revamp an existing one, we provide full-service, turnkey flooring installation for all commercial industries, including offices, retail stores, dance studios, medical facilities, apartments, warehouses, and all other varieties. We serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

Indianapolis Commercial General Contracting and Design Build Services
Contact Us Today 317-253-0531

What is the Difference Between Commercial Contractor Estimates and Bids?

When you need to have a remodel or renovation done on your property, you will need a contractor. It is vital to take your time searching for a seasoned, skilled, and reputable commercial contracting company to work with. Otherwise, you can face some costly, fly-by-the-night contractor swindles, or worse, a botched commercial construction job that puts your business or tenants at risk.

During your search for the right commercial general contractor, you will notice that some offer bid-style proposals, while others offer estimate-style proposals. This may confuse you since they often seem similar, which is why it is important to understand the difference before moving forward with any commercial construction work.

Continue reading to learn the primary differences between commercial contractor bids and estimates, including some pros and cons of each, as well as, who you can trust for full-service commercial design build services in Central Indiana.

Indianapolis Commercial Construction Services
Indianapolis Commercial Construction Services 317-253-0531

Contractor Estimates

Estimate proposals are also known as “time and material” proposals or “cost-plus contracts.” This is because such proposals are written out in meticulous detail, itemizing all materials, hours worked, subcontractor labor, and everything else needed to complete the project (i.e. permits, dumpster roll-offs, portable toilets, etc.). The hired commercial contracting team includes their own fee, which is generally a set percentage of the total cost of the project.

Many commercial real estate proprietors prefer estimate-style proposals because they are the most transparent. This also helps when comparing commercial contractors’ estimates. However, estimate proposals can be very lengthy and can sometimes pose the risk of paying for higher-end subcontractors since you have no control over that aspect of the project.

Contractor Bids

Bid-style proposals are also known as “fixed-priced” proposals or “all-inclusive pricing” since a commercial contractor will provide a comprehensive total for your project after making a full assessment. These are well-suited for moderate renovations or remodeling projects, such as utility upgrades and interior design remodels. For larger-scale commercial construction and remodeling projects, predicting all costs can be more of a challenge.

Within a bid-style commercial contractor proposal, there is usually a set contingency fee that covers any moderate budget extensions; however, it only covers such extensions to a certain specified limit. In the case that a large renovation or remediation is needed, the commercial contracting company will apply this fee as a buffer to cover high, unexpected costs that might affect their overall profit margin. Be sure to discuss this with all commercial contractors you interview for your business’s remodeling and deign build needs!

See our blog, “Key Points That Should Be Included in a Remodeling Contract” for additional tips that will help you make the best decisions for your business objectives. Or simply trust the commercial general contractors at BAF Corporation for unparalleled craftsmanship and client support!

Indianapolis Commercial Construction Company You Can Trust

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial construction services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

Indianapolis Commercial General Contracting and Design Build Services
Contact Us Today 317-253-0531

Modern Wheelchair Accessibility Options for Commercial Properties

As a commercial property owner, the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) is something you need to fully appreciate and consider when it comes time to plan a major remodel or renovation, especially for multi-story buildings. ADA compliancy and adequate wheelchair accessibility are two key factors that must be addressed and incorporated into your commercial building in order to remain non-delinquent under the civil law requirements for public accommodation.

Not sure where to begin with your new ADA compliancy and wheelchair accessibility plan? Continue reading to learn some of the most popular options for commercial buildings, and how to get started on the right track in terms of planning and construction.

Indianapolis Design Build Commercial Construction 317-253-0531
Indianapolis Design Build Commercial Construction 317-253-0531

ADA Compliant Options for Disabled Individuals

There are plenty of options you can choose from to ensure your commercial property is adequately accessible to those in wheelchairs, as well as those who are disabled. Some of the most popular ADA compliancy and wheelchair accessibility options include wheelchair lifts, ADA ramps, and ADA elevators. Often times, commercial buildings owners will incorporate more than one method to achieve optimal accessibility. To learn more about ADA standards for accessible design, visit ADA.gov.

ADA Ramps

There are very strict and specific state requirements for ADA ramps. First, wheelchair ramps have to be at least 36 inches wide, and retain protective edges to prevent falling accidents. Furthermore, such ramps must be constructed with perfectly level platforms at both ends to ensure stability. These landing areas must be as wide as the ramp, and at least 5 feet long. Aside from width and length, ADA ramps are required to meet certain criteria for slope as well. Maximum slope allotment for wheelchair ramps are 1 inch of rise to every 12 inches of length. More commonly, ADA ramps are constructed with 1 inch of rise to every 20 inches of length.

Wheelchair Lifts

As you just learned, ADA ramps must have the correct slope and height ratio to deliver a safe and comfortable passageway for disabled individuals. But sometimes, a commercial building does not have the space to accommodate a ramp. In really tight quarters, such as spiral staircases or multi-story lobbies, commercial construction specialists will recommend using a wheelchair lift. Wheelchair lifts are similar to elevators in that they mechanically transport a wheelchair from one level to another. Such lifts are compatible with most high-level spaces, and do not require invasive construction. Best of all, they can be applied to interior staircases, exterior stairways, and even swimming pools.

ADA Elevators

When ramps and lifts are not a compatible solution to ADA compliancy and wheelchair accessibility, a great option are ADA-approved elevators. ADA elevators are different from standard elevator systems because they are designed with greater dimensions to allow safe and easy access for those in wheelchairs. Furthermore, their doors must remain open for at least 3 seconds prior to closing. ADA elevator compliancy also requires easy access to buttons and controls on the inside of the elevator and on the wall outside of the elevator, as well as, visual and audio cues that signal elevator availability and movement.

Indianapolis Commercial Construction Company You Can Trust

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial construction management in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

Indianapolis Commercial General Contracting and Design Build Services
Contact Us Today 317-253-0531

Signs That Suggest You Need Commercial Window Replacement

The overall efficiency of your commercial property ultimately affects your bottom line. If you want to reduce your energy consumption while also promoting a functional and comfortable indoor environment, it is important to have a good window system. A key part to maintaining a quality commercial window system is knowing when to replace or update.

Continue reading to learn some common signs that suggest it is time to have your commercial windows replaced or updated.

Commercial Window Repair and Replacement
Commercial Window Repair and Replacement 317-253-0531

Chips and Cracks

If your commercial windows have visible cracks or chips, you are wise to have them repaired or replaced. Such surface defects can increase the rate of deterioration within the glass, thus leading to further fissures and eventual breakage, which can pose several safety hazards. Furthermore, window damage can waste energy by leaking conditioned air, and even attract certain pests, like termites and ants. In most cases, small cracks and chips can be repaired, but usually just on a temporary basis. Most often, damaged panels are replaced individually to ensure full security against future cracking and energy loss. Addressing any cracking, chipping, or similar glass damage right away can save you both time and money.

Window Jams

Windows are designed to serve certain functions; and opening is usually one of them. For restaurants, cafes, retail stores, schools, gyms, hotels, offices, and similar settings, the ability to open a window is quite important. So, if you have windows in your building that are supposed to open, but do not, you might want to consider having the entire system replaced. Whether they are jammed, stuck, broken, or painted over, your windows will require some professional renovation to ensure proper insulation and efficiency.

Irregular Indoor Air Environment

If your commercial building experiences an imbalance in heat and cool air, it could be due to your window systems. When a building is hot in some areas, but cold in others, or vice versa, it is often a sign that they are outdated or lacking in quality. Today, commercial window systems are designed with innovative insulating technologies that help promote a steady and efficiency indoor air environment. Not only can replacing your commercial windows increase energy efficiency and reduce monthly utility costs, it can also produce a more comfortable atmosphere for clients, guests, and staff, which can be highly valuable for certain businesses.

Professional Commercial Window Replacement in Indiana

Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for trusted commercial window repair and replacement services in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding locations. Our skilled and experienced commercial general contractors deliver a streamlined construction process that meets all defined engineering and design specifications, procurement, schedules, and budgets. We serve all corporate, commercial, and industrial industries in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding districts. Call today to request free information or to schedule a consultation.

Indianapolis Commercial General Contracting and Design Build Services
Contact Us Today 317-253-0531