The Drawbacks of Painting Over Brick Building Exteriors

Posted on February 15, 2022 by bafcorp20

Are you considering an exterior building remodel for an instant, cost-effective facelift for your business? If so, you are on the right track. Exterior remodels can bring in more traffic, thus having a positive impact on the overall success of a company. But if your building’s façade is brick or masonry, just be sure to avoid paint. Painting over brick can come with all sorts of difficulties and unexpected outcomes.

Continue reading to learn why many commercial general contractors discourage painting over brick exteriors, and how to find a better-looking, budget-friendly alternative.

Exterior Building Remodeling Indianapolis Indiana 317-253-0531

Do Not Paint Over Brick if You Can Avoid It

Although there are some circumstances in which painting over brick can be attractive and worthwhile, when it comes to the outside of a building or structure, paint is not the most compatible material. Not only can painting over exterior brick instantly look unattractive, but it can also cause some serious structural damages to the brick and the edifice as a whole. Furthermore, once you paint over brick, there is no going back.

Let’s take a closer look at the key reasons why you should try to avoid painting over brick when you can…

It Can Look Really Bad

There are very few cases in which painted brick looks good. It can be done, but when it comes to the outside of a building, the end result is usually quite unattractive. A brick building that has been painted over will instantly look bad before the paint even dries. And no matter how many coats are applied, the outcome will look sloppy and half-complete. As mentioned, curb appeal is a very important element to a business’s success when they have a brick-and-mortar of some kind. Whether tenants, employees, clients, customers, or guests, the look and ambience of a building has a direct influence on traffic.

It Cannot Be Undone

The worst part of a bad brick paint job is that it cannot be undone. Once you paint over brick, there is no removing it, cleaning it off, or covering it up. You can try to power wash your building, or even sandblast the brick, but these two practices will only damage the masonry and worsen the appearance. So, if you are choosing this option for your building’s exterior, be sure you have really thought it through. Additionally, once you paint brick, you have entered an obligation to continue having your brick repainted on a regular basis. This can be invasive and expensive. But if you do not repaint brick, it will deteriorate and fade at a rapid rate.

It Can Cause Property Damages

Paint can damage brick. But not just the bricks, also the mortar between them. As a result, brick will begin to exponentially crumble and deteriorate, which can lead to an overall stability issue with the entire building exterior. Also, seasonal freeze-thaw cycles can further deteriorate brick and mortar. After water seeps into the porous material, it freezes into ice during the winter season, causing the brick to expand. When warmer temperatures arise, the water within the porous brick thaw, causing the brick to collapse back on itself. These movements and shifts in the brick can cause extreme damage overtime.

Side Notes About Painting Brick Exteriors

Older brick might have historical value. Traditionally made in a kiln, bricks of this time are harder and can stand up to the damaging outdoor elements. You don’t want to jeopardize the historic value of your brick building by painting over it!

Keep in mind that some types of older bricks are meant to be painted over. Just be sure to use a milk-based or lime whitewash paint for these kinds of bricks.

If your brick is severely damaged but replacing it is not investment-wise, painting might be the best option. Talk to your commercial general contractor to be sure.

If you do want to paint your brick building, be sure to choose a mineral-based paint or a silicate paint that is recommended for brick. These exterior paints are specially designed to be more breathable and last longer in between repainting.

Alternatives to Painting Over Brick

If you are ready for an exterior façade renovation for a brick building, there are some cost-effective and worthwhile alternatives to a paint job. Talk to a licensed and insured commercial general contracting company for professional advice and guidance.

Not sure which commercial contracting company to choose in Indiana for your exterior remodeling or painting needs? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 when you need the most trusted and qualified commercial general contractors for building remodeling and commercial painting in Indianapolis, IN. We serve clients all throughout the state.

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

3 Easy Options for an Open Concept Office Floor Plan

Posted on February 10, 2022 by bafcorp20

Does your commercial office lack the open-concept floor plan you’ve always wished for, but you aren’t in a position to move locations? Well, you might be happy to know that you don’t always have to move into a new building or lease a new space to get the open layout you so desire. In fact, you may be able to remodel your current office floor plan.

Before getting started, it is important to discuss your office remodeling ideas with a licensed commercial general contractor who can assist you in finding the proper renovation for your particular space. They can let you know if your commercial office space is a good candidate for open floor space renovations, which remodels or renovations are right for your property, and whether your lease includes a tenant improvement allowance.

Continue reading to learn some easy ways to give your existing commercial office space a more open-concept feel, plus who to trust in Central Indiana for superior commercial remodeling and TI work.

Indiana Commercial Office Remodeling 317-253-0531 — Indianapolis IN Commercial Office Remodeling 317-253-0531

Open Concept Tips for Commercial Offices

Looking for an easy and relatively quick way to transform your office into an open-concept floor layout? Perhaps one of these 3 options will suit your commercial remodeling needs!

Non-Load Bearing Walls

A commercial general contractor can point out which walls are load-bearing and which ones are not. The walls that are not load-bearing can be torn down in a strategic and artistic way to add more space to any room. Conjoining rooms by tearing down walls is an invasive remodeling project, but with professional assistance, it is generally easy and organized work.

It is important to use a professional commercial general contracting company in Indianapolis to tear down walls because they can accurately locate and work around gas pipes, electrical wires, load-bearing walls, and more. You want all your work to be up to code with the local municipality as well, which a licensed and certified commercial general contractor can guarantee.

Archways

If you are looking for a more open feel for your commercial office layout, but you dislike the idea of a full-o, invasive remodel, consider making small but stately adjustments, as these can make a big difference in appearance and fee, plus fit the budget nicely. Adding an archway above interior doors provides instant gratification because it gives off an illusion of more space. Additionally beneficial, construction for archways is pretty minimal and requires less drywall work and less labor time.

Accent Walls and Space Division

If construction, drywall work, and remodeling are nowhere near your budget, there are more cost-effective methods for creating the illusion of a more open floor plan for yourself and your staff. A popular, go-to interior design hack is to add an accent wall in certain areas of the office, particularly smaller, confined spaces or small rooms. This creates a feel of difference and division.

On the subject of floor plan division, dividing room space is another cost-effective interior design method that creates the feeling of more space. Try adding crown molding on the walls of one space to separate it from other areas of the office. This is inexpensive and does not take much time to install. All of these options can even be done on your own, which is even more cost-effective.

Are you looking for a qualified commercial general contractor to deliver a functional and appealing interior remodel within your TI allowance or office remodeling budget? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for superior commercial remodeling and tenant improvements in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve clients all throughout the state.

Top 3 Flat Roofing Systems for Commercial Buildings

Posted on February 7, 2022 by bafcorp20

The commercial roofing industry is seeing more and more new materials being introduced to the market, year after year. Some more costly than others, while others more Eco-friendly than some. But regardless of why you might be in the market for a new commercial roof, it is what you are looking for in a new roof that matters. There are three kinds of commercial flat roof materials currently available on the market. Although you will notice they are a bit more expensive than alternative materials, they are undeniably worth the investment in the long run.

Continue reading to learn more about the top 3 flat roofing materials used in the commercial construction industry and who to trust for superior commercial roofing replacement in Indianapolis.

Commercial Roofers Indianapolis Indiana 317-253-0531

Commercial Flat Roofs

The commercial roofing materials for flat roofs are measured in “squares” which is equivalent to 100 square feet. They generally cost anywhere between $250 and $350 per square, but prices can vary depending on the retailer and roof size. Warranties for flat roofs are typically good for 10 or 20 years, but with professional installation and routine maintenance, they can last up to 25 years or more. It is important to choose a reputable Indianapolis commercial general contracting company for dependable flat roof installation and repair services.

Modified Bitumen

Modified bitumen is a single-ply roll commercial roofing material infused with mineral-based exterior. This roofing material is efficient in terms of installation. There are peel-and-stick versions available on the market for those who wish to install their own new roofing, although this is strongly discouraged. There are also commercial ply roofing options that must be installed with professional equipment; a process that involves heat the adhesive as the material is rolled out.

It is a popular choice because its light-colored exterior reflects heat, which reduces energy bills. Also, it is moderately priced, right in between the cost of the other roofing materials. Since the application process is a fire hazard, it should not be installed in an occupied property. One downfall is that it’s not resistant to scuff marks and tears.

Built Up Roof (BUR)

BUR is the common hot-tar and gravel roofing seen on several types of commercial buildings throughout Indianapolis. It is assembled with alternating plies (3 or more) of waterproof materials, hot tar, and ballasted gravel. Today, these commercial roofing materials are manufactured with more advanced materials like fiberglass membranes, when before hot tar paper was the principal component. Although heavy, smelly, and messy to install, BUR can be a promising choice for some property owners and developers.

Not only is it fire-retardant, but it is also the cheapest of all the roofing materials so budgets can stay intact. But it should not be installed in a building that is occupied. This is a perfect choice for those remodeling a commercial property that is still vacant. Keep in mind that it is a big job that requires the services of a professional commercial contractor.

Rubber Membrane

Rubber roofing is an excellent choice for commercial properties in warm climates. It is effectually resistant to sunlight damage and can be installed one of three ways: glued-on, anchored with fasteners, or ballasted with stone. It is highly durable, resistant to scuffs and rips, light in weight, and water leaks are easy to patch. It is on the higher end of the price spectrum, being that it is more expensive than BUR and bitumen, but it is a wise choice for many commercial properties.

Are you wondering if you should upgrade or replace your commercial roofing system? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for licensed and certified commercial general contractor services in Indianapolis Indiana. We serve clients all throughout the state.

Important Repairs to Make Before Listing Your Commercial Office Space

Posted on February 1, 2022 by bafcorp20

There is really no limit to the number of repairs you can make to your commercial office space for the purpose of increasing its appeal to potential tenants. However, making all of these renovations is not realistic, nor is it in the budget. Instead, it is wiser to pick and choose the most effective repairs you make to maximize your cost-savings and return on investment.

Continue reading to learn the recommended major and minor repairs to consider before officially listing your commercial office space on the real estate market.

Commercial Office Renovations Indianapolis Indiana 317-253-0531

Minor Repairs for Commercial Spaces

Turn-Key is the Goal

Commercial tenants are almost always looking for a turn-key property. If they aren’t, they are still always impressed by a freshly renovated and refreshed office space. For these reasons, repairing minor drywall damage and repainting your commercial office space are fantastic and profitable investments. Such renovations will make your commercial property more appealing to potential tenants.

Interior Paint Colors

When choosing paint colors, be sure to stick with neutrals, like beige, taupe, tan, and gray. These colors are more inviting and open up small spaces, but also allow potential tenants to imagine their personal touch. Furthermore, neutral colors are more calming for staff, which can improve employee contentment, and ultimately, employee productivity. All of these benefits are appealing for business owners looking for new commercial office space.

Fixtures and Focal Points

It is important to address any opportunity for improvement when it comes to the hardware, fixtures, and focal points of your commercial space. Floors and carpeting are often the first thing people see when they check out a new rental space. Steam cleaning all carpets and buffing or waxing the floors are excellent and effective strategies to enhance the appeal of a listed property.

Additionally, consider replacing or upgrading hardware on cabinets, plumbing fixtures, light fixtures (both interior and exterior), outlet covers, and intercoms. These small modifications can have a significant and lasting impression on a potential commercial tenant.

Exterior Building Care

As soon as a potential tenant approaches your building or office space, they will form an opinion before entering through the doors. Curb appeal plays an important role in attracting new commercial tenants. Consider exterior renovations like power washing the siding, exterior, and localized pavements, as well as a fresh exterior paint job, landscaping additions, and perhaps even new signage.

Major Renovations for Commercial Spaces

When it comes to selecting the most important or profitable major commercial office renovations, it is best to consult a commercial general contracting company in Indiana for an accurate assessment of your property. Safety is the number one concern, followed by liability and investment protection. This means it is important to fix anything that can jeopardize these areas in the short or long run.

Examples include roof repairs, siding repairs, plumbing repairs, crawl space and attic repairs, foundation repairs, and water leaks. Additional areas to examine when it comes to major commercial building repairs and renovations include security installations, fire suppression systems, touchless technology, electric gates, parking lots, parking garages, fencing, patios, underground pools, lawn drainage, container service, and wildlife control.

Professional Commercial Office Remodeling and Renovations

Once you decide which repairs are most important to your property, it is time to hire a professional Indianapolis commercial general contractor for all your commercial construction and facility maintenance needs. Be sure to choose a licensed and insured commercial remodeling company with sufficient experience in the building and construction industry. They should have the knowledge, skills, and resources to undertake your commercial renovations, plus complete the job in a time frame that is convenient for you.

Are you ready to spruce up your commercial space and attract new tenants? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for superior commercial office construction in Indianapolis, Indiana. We work with clients all throughout the state.

Important Information About Forklift Safety

Posted on January 21, 2022 by bafcorp20

Whether in a big box store or a construction zone, forklifts are common machines used to lift heavy items, palettes, materials, and more. But without proper training, knowledge, and discipline, operating a forklift can be very dangerous, to both the operator and surrounding peers. Since there are various vocations and job positions that require forklift knowledge and operation, it is a standard certification sought out within the workforce.

If you work with forklifts regularly, or have a staff under your supervision who does, it is vital to ensure that the proper, industry-standard forklift operation safety practices are upheld at all times to prevent serious accidents and injuries.Continue reading to review the top safety tips you should know and practice when operating a forklift; then share this knowledge with your fellow teams.

Indianapolis Commercial General Contractor 317-253-0531

Top Forklift Safety Tips

Forklift Safety Training

The most fundamental safety tip for operating a forklift is to have the proper training and certification. Anyone who has not undergone official forklift safety training should not be permitted to operate a forklift under any circumstances. Whether gas, electric, 3-wheeled, or rough-terrain, forklifts are serious machinery, and they require acute knowledge on operation and safety. We recommend to visit Forkliftlicenseguide.com for details on earning your forklift certification in Indiana.

Forklift Inspections

Forklifts, like all pieces of powered machinery, require regular inspections and routine maintenance in order to ensure they are in good condition. Aside from regular inspections, forklift operators should make it a habit to always perform a brief assessment of the machine before each use. Check the brakes, steering, lights, signals, tires, and more, to determine if the forklift is ready or not.

Forklift Operation

When operating a forklift, there are several safety rules to adhere to. Some of the most important are the ones that are often overlooked. For instance, always be sure to maintain a safe speed when driving a forklift. Although they seem slow, it is easy to lose control in a small space. Additionally, it is important to wear the proper gear and clothing when operating a forklift, including eye goggles, work boots, hard hats, reflective vests, and more.

Forklift Load

If a load is not fully-secured or stable, it can cause a wide range of serious accidents and injuries. Can you imagine if a palate of timber fell on top of someone? So, it is vital to ensure that all cargo is secured and balanced on the forklift before operating it further. Check on the weight distribution and levelness to avoid topping, falls, spills, and more.

Are you looking for professional commercial builders in your area? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for superior commercial general contracting services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and industrial clients all throughout the state.

What to Do if You are Dealing With a Contractor Dispute

Posted on January 18, 2022 by bafcorp20

Did you know that you can get help from the local and state licensing authorities if you are having a dispute with your hired general contractor? Continue below for some tips that can help you resolve a contractor dispute that has yet to resolve itself.

General Commercial Contractors Indiana 317-253-0531

How to Solve a Contractor Dispute

In many cases of contractor disputes, the situation can be quite challenging, whether you are coming from a commercial or residential standpoint. Fortunately, there are some helpful courses available to clients of contractors when such disputes do arise. One such solution is contacting the local and state licensing authority.

These regulating authorities can be your secret weapon against an immoral, unethical, or stubborn general contractor. They can help you save a lot of time and money attempting to resolve the contractor dispute on your own, plus protect you against a lengthy and stressful civil lawsuit.

What You Should Expect From a Licensed Contractor

You see, virtually all contractors are subject to mandatory local and state licensing requirements; some more than others, though. Contractors like electricians and master plumbers have very strict licensing requirements. Unfortunately, general contractor licensing requirements are more lenient.

Nonetheless, such requirements obligate contractors to demonstrate a certain duty of care when undertaking work for paid clients. Being “licensed” comes with a specific set of professional expectations, and although this standard can vary slightly among jurisdictions, it generally means that a contractor:

✏ Retains Knowledge and Training
✏ Has Some Experience
✏ Passed a Certified Examination
✏ Stays Current on Code Changes

It is also important to note that being registered in the state is not the same as being licensed. Be sure to look for this when hiring a general contractor.

Licensing Violations Versus Remodeling Contract Violations

Keep in mind that not all general contractor disputes are based on professional licensing violations. Some can be categorized under a remodeling contract breech, which is a dispute not regularly handled by licensing authorities.

For instance, let’s say you hire a general contractor to add a half-bathroom in your basement. If they say the project should take around 3 weeks, but it ends up taking 3 months, this would be a breech of the remodeling contract, not their licensing requirements. This would require a lawsuit or even a bond to resolve.

Oppositely, if your contractor adds a new bathroom to your basement, but does not do so up to code, this could be considered a violation of their licensing requirements. In such case, your state or local licensing agency might help you recover some justice.

Reporting a Contractor Dispute

Visit your local county, town, or state government website to learn which regulating authorities oversee your particular contractor. You will be able to see which types of work your county or town licenses. Upon investigation, which tends to happen quickly, the licensing agency may choose to discipline the wrongful contractor.

There are a few ways they might do this, including heavy fines, restitution, refunds to clients, license suspensions, and in really egregious situations, license revocations. They may also be kicked out of any professional organization or membership they have within their industry. As for the clients, the residing licensing authority may be able to recover additional compensation, aside from refunds, to make up for financial damages and losses.

Are you looking for a professional commercial contractor in Indiana that you can trust for the highest level of excellence in the industry? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for superior commercial general contracting services in Indianapolis, Indiana.We serve commercial and industrial clients all throughout the state.

How Power Washing Services Can Benefit Commercial Properties

Posted on January 14, 2022 by bafcorp20

Power washing is an excellent method of effective property maintenance that prominently supports aesthetic value and appeal of commercial properties. The visual appearance of any commercial property should be important to real estate owners. First impressions are often times the most valuable of ones. It can either repel or compel clients, investors, and other societal assemblies. Client or not, these impressions affect the way daily assumptions are made regarding the estimated value of a company or business.

Continue reading to learn more ways power washing can benefit your commercial building and surrounding premises, plus where to get trusted commercial facility maintenance and renovations in Central Indiana.

Commercial Facility Services Indianapolis Indiana 317-253-0531

Top Advantages of Commercial Power Washing

Regular pressure washing for commercial properties has several advantages. Just like all other routine cleaning needed to maintain a professional property, outdoor preservation is needed as well. Power washing provides preventative maintenance, reduces safety and health hazards, and increase aesthetic value and appearance.

Routine pressure washing eliminates dirt, debris, stains, loose gravel, and sometimes even graffiti. This automatically updates the appeal and look of any commercial property. On ground surfaces, cigarette butts, food residues, footprints, mud stains, and more are all washed away with high-powered water hoses and other similar professional power washing and cleaning equipment.

As for siding and exteriors of buildings, pressure washing removes dirt accumulation and can eliminate contaminates that lead to bacteria growth and rot. Vinyl, brick, concrete, and various other exteriors can be sustained overtime with regular power washing services. It instantly brings a new luster and shine to building exteriors.

Here are some more benefits and advantages of professional power washing services for commercial properties and buildings:

☑ Increases Curb Appeal
☑ Preventative Care and Maintenance
☑ Reduces Mold, Mildew, and Bacteria Growth
☑ Eliminates Dirt and Oil
☑ Sustains Paint and Exterior Finishes
☑ Reduces Need for Renovation
☑ Reduces Painting Costs

Additional Pressure Washing Applications

There are several other benefits when it comes to power washing. Shopping carts, vehicle fleets, golf carts, sidewalks, and more are all useful places for power washing services. As a business owner, it is highly recommended to sustain the visual appearance of your property for customers, clients, and employees. It reduces safety concerns and hazards, as well as eliminates the need for excessive aesthetic maintenance and upkeep.

Is your commercial premises in need of more than a little pressure washing? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 to speak with an expert Indianapolis commercial general contractor about your options for remodeling and renovation. We serve clients in all industries and throughout all of Central Indiana.

Troubleshooting Tips for Problematic Commercial Electric Gates

Posted on December 31, 2021 by bafcorp20

Commercial electric gates are quite the luxury to have for your business, whether a medical facility, school, hotel, warehouse, or factory. However, they are prone to damage, just like anything else that runs on power. Furthermore, commercial electric gate repairs can be costly and invasive, making it a priority to take good care of them year-round, especially during the winter when freezing temperatures and inclement weather can really deteriorate the mechanical components and hardware.

If you are having some mechanical or operational issues with your commercial electric gate, continue reading for some top-recommended troubleshooting tips.

Commercial Electric Gate Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-253-0531

Commercial Electric Gate Problems and Diagnostics

What could be the problem with your commercial electrical gate? Well, it could be countless reasons, but the most common are issues with the power source, transmitter, motor, or an obstruction in the pathway of the gate.

Power

Have you ever tried to use an electrical device that just wouldn’t work, and then you realize it’s not plugged in? Well, the same principle applies to electric gates. If your commercial gate is not receiving power, it won’t work. So, your first step to troubleshooting a commercial electric gate malfunction is to see whether or not the power source is intact. Start with any peripheral equipment on your gate, then finish by inspecting the electric mains. If they are off, turn them back on; if they are on, inspect the wiring for visual damage or disconnections. Sometimes, changing the wires solves the problem.

Transmitter

If the electrical mains and wiring don’t seem to jump out at you as the problem, move onto the transmitter. If the light is on, the transmitter has power, but the batteries may be low. If the light is not on, the transmitter has no power, and again, the batteries probably need to be replaced. Next, test your keypads and access codes to see if they are working properly. Be sure to test all access controls if you have more than two. If the gates do not open when you enter in your code, you likely need commercial electric gate repair or replacement. Be sure to test all peripheral equipment to narrow down the culprits.

Pathway

If everything seems to be fine so far, it could be something as simple as an unnoticed obstruction. So, be sure to check the gate’s path of movement to ensure there is nothing in its way when it opens. If your problem is that the gates won’t close, waive something in its path to see if you hear a clicking noise. If so, the photocells could be damaged. This is mostly for rolling gates.

Sliding gates might not contain photocells, in which case, you would not hear a clicking noise. If your commercial gate does contain photocells, and you do not hear a clicking sound, your safety beam might be damaged. In this case, check to see if any broken fragments, wedged insects, or solid debris are blocking the photocells.

Motors

Last, you need to ensure that the motors are not the problem. Most often, you need the help of a professional facility maintenance technician or contractor to inspect and diagnose commercial electric gate motor issues, for both rolling and sliding gates. Consult with a licensed Indianapolis commercial general contractor for help solving your electric gate issues.

Do you need some commercial renovations in the New Year? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for professional commercial general contracting services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and industrial clients all throughout Central Indiana.

Am I Required to Upgrade My Automatic Sprinkler Fire Suppression System?

Posted on December 28, 2021 by bafcorp20

A good business owner who operates out of a brick-and-mortar location is proactive and practical about fire safety, no matter what time of year it is. Having an automatic sprinkler fire suppression system plan in place is one of the most important elements of a premise liability and asset protection program. As a commercial building owner, it is vital that you understand your building code requirements for automatic sprinkler fire suppression system upgrades, especially when planning a remodeling or renovation.

Continue reading to learn when you might be required by law or municipal code to upgrade your automatic sprinkler systems, as well as who to call when it’s time to schedule the project.

Fire Suppression Installation Indianapolis Indiana 317-253-0531

Automatic Sprinkler Fire Suppression Systems for Commercial Buildings and Businesses

There are several deciding factors to consider when planning a commercial renovation in a building that is equipped with an existing automatic sprinkler fire suppression system. For many, building codes require the commercial buildings upgrade their automatic sprinkler fire suppression systems if the renovation entails a certain scope of work.

Fire Suppression Building Code Requirements for Construction

Automatic sprinkler fire suppression systems are vital for public safety and investment protection. For this reason, they are often required by local, state and federal law in commercial buildings and public spaces. When it comes to building codes for commercial sprinkler systems, the requirements will differ depending on the type of construction.

New construction builds will require a separate set of building codes compared to existing buildings that are having renovation or remodeling work done. It is important to know the difference between the different building code requirements for automatic sprinkler fire suppression system upgrades and expansions.

Talk to your Indiana commercial general contractor for expert guidance and up-to-date information, as such codes are subject to change at any time.

Commercial Building Renovations

Commercial building renovations require automatic sprinkler fire suppression system upgrades and/or installations under very specific circumstances, including the detailed specifications of the construction and the location of the building itself.

For instance:

If a commercial construction project will expand a building’s fire area square footage by 5000 ft.² or more, building codes require that the facility install an automatic sprinkler fire suppression system.

If a single tenant expansion project that requires a new certificate of occupancy results in expanding a building’s fire area square footage by 12,000 ft.² or more, building codes require that the facility install or upgrade their automatic sprinkler fire suppression system.

All automatic sprinkler fire suppression systems, whether installing them new or upgrading an existing system, are required to extend throughout the entire commercial building in order to be compliant under local, state, and federal building codes.

Are you wondering if you should upgrade or expand your commercial building’s automatic sprinkler fire suppression system or similar mechanical systems? Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 for professional commercial general contractor services in Indianapolis Indiana. We serve clients all throughout the state.

How to Remove Painted Wallpaper

Posted on December 20, 2021 by bafcorp20

During the commercial renovation process, it is common to come across a painted wall that has wallpaper beneath its many layers. This is very common in older homes and buildings, partly due to the fact that wallpaper was more of a hassle to remove back then because the market lacked the innovative tools and products that we now have to ease the process. But for many property owners, especially multi-housing real estate developers and landlords, painting over wallpaper is still the more cost-effective and time-convenient option. The fact of the matter is, painting over old wallpaper really just adds to imminent work required down the line when it comes time to properly renovate.

If you are a new building owner or commercial tenant who needs to remove old wallpaper that’s been painted over, you are probably wondering how to manage the project efficiently. After all, time is money, and you are not prepared to waste either one as a business operator. But the ugly truth is, there is no secret method to removing painted wallpaper quickly. In all cases, it will take a lot more effort, time, and material than a standard wallpaper removal job. Furthermore, if you come to find several layers of paint, your best option might be to replace the drywall altogether.

Continue reading to learn the best practice for removing wallpaper that was painted over previously, and who to call when your commercial renovation undertaking is more than you thought you could handle!

Commercial Painters Indianapolis Indiana 317-253-0531

What You Need to Remove Old Wallpaper

Keep in mind that you may require new drywall installation if you find that there are several layers of paint on top of the wallpaper. If there are only a few layers of paint, you may be successful at removing it without having to replace the drywall. If you do not already know how to remove wallpaper, simply review the steps before getting started. What you will see is that it is a very similar process to removing painted wallpaper.

You will first need to gather all the necessary items, including:

➣ 3-in-1 Scraper Tool or Broad Knife
➣ Serrated Paper Scoring Tool
➣ Wallpaper Stripper Solution
➣ Wallpaper Removal Cloth
➣ Ladder or Step Stool
➣ Large Plastic Bucket
➣ 2 Gallons Warm Water
➣ Rubber Gloves
➣ Safety Goggles
➣ Drop Cloths or Tarps

Wallpaper Removal Guide for Painted Walls

Using medium pressure, score the outer layer on the wall with the paper scoring tool. Too much pressure can damage the wall so take your time on this part. You may also use a thick-bristled wire brush, or both. Choose the tool that you are more comfortable using and that produces the most results.

Once you have scored the paint, spray on your wallpaper stripper solution, focusing on small sections at a time. Then allow the solution to soak into the wall for a few minutes. Spraying too much solution on at once can damage the wall, so don’t be too generous with the spray bottle. If you do not wish to use a commercial wallpaper stripper solution, you can mix water, vinegar, and liquid fabric softener into a plastic spray bottle instead.

After the solution has soaked into the wall for a few minutes, grab your 3-in-1 scraper tool (available at any local hardware or home improvement store for a low cost), and start with the sharpest edge. Get underneath the painted wallpaper and work slowly to scrape it away. Scraping in alternate directions will help expedite the effects.

Expect this process to take several hours, or even days depending on the drywall or plaster used, the type of wallpaper adhesive, the square footage of the wall, the extent of paint on top of the wallpaper, and much more. After an abundant amount of dedication, patience, and effort, you will eventually get it all!

Hire a Professional for Commercial Painting and Drywall

Please remember that all wallpaper removal jobs will be different. There are countless factors that influence the process of removing wallpaper, especially painted-over wallpaper. Sometimes it is best to leave a tedious and complicated project to a licensed professional. An Indianapolis commercial drywall and painting contractor has the tools, resources, and training necessary to remove wallpaper, efficiently and without causing further damage.

In the case that your walls have been damaged by too many layers of paint or wallpaper, they can provide drywall installation and repair services too. If you want outstanding results at a great price, trust your Indiana commercial general contracting company for wallpaper and paint removal services.

Are you in over your head in DIY commercial renovations? Trust a pro for the best results. Contact BAF Corporation at 317-253-0531 when you need the most trusted and qualified commercial general contractors for painting and drywall service in Indianapolis, Indiana.