Retrofitting Existing Buildings

Retrofitting an existing building is a great way to improve its energy efficiency and more. It can improve a building’s lighting, energy usage, comfort, and overall functionality. A retrofitted building will be able to operate at lower costs and attract more tenants. 

Retrofitingt Evaluation

During a retrofit, there are certain things that should be considered. Water, energy systems, and more must be evaluated for an upgrade to increase efficiency. The areas where employees will work also need to be evaluated. Lighting, HVAC, as well as space redesign, and more will contribute to employee satisfaction. Lighting during a retrofit can be made to improve the ability to do tasks. It’s possible to install new ventilation that provides more fresh air. Some buildings have had solar shade devices installed on windows to help improve energy efficiency. 

water-heaterCorrect System

When a decision has been made to retrofit a building, it’s important to determine the correct systems to utilize. It is common for many older buildings to have a pneumatic control system. Many experts believe these systems should be replaced during a retrofit. It can be expensive and difficult to get essential replacement parts for a pneumatic control system. Currently, HVAC electricity is now the favorite HVAC installation system. These systems cost less to operate; installation is simple, and they are able to run efficiently for extended periods of time. These systems are able to function in many different building environments. An electrical system is able to be controlled remotely with a cell phone and more.

Insulation

insulationIn some cases, the retrofit of a building in Oregon OH could involve putting insulation within the cavity of its walls. The level of insulation used should be limited to fill the depth of a wood-framed wall’s existing stud cavity. With masonry walls, mineral fiber or cellulose insulation material will be measured by strapping depth. Contractors can find this limiting. In some situations, insulation can be added to the exterior of an existing building. Doing this will provide higher thermal resistance values. It will also increase a building’s air tightness as well as durability.

Rebates And Tax Incentives

In many situations, it is possible for a building owner to qualify for a number of different tax incentives and rebates. This could be offered when sustainable lighting is installed as well as with other improvements. It is also possible for building owners to get tax deductions for the entire cost of an upgrade for indoor lighting. These tax deductions may be able to be deducted in the first year instead of depreciating the amount for it over a number of years.

Increased Safety

When a building is properly retrofitted, it can have the latest safety features installed. High-quality lighting and other safety features will increase the satisfaction of occupants. The latest technologies are able to help keep a building operating efficiently when a loss of power is experienced and more.

Measured Approach And Whole Building

A building retrofit can be accomplished by doing a number of improvement projects over a period of time. This is known as a measured approach. An energy audit may provide a list of different potential projects. This list would show the type of retrofit, estimated annual savings as well as payback period. The problem with this approach is that is difficult to accurately estimate the effect of interactions between new systems and existing systems. In many situations, opportunities for significant savings may be lost. Whole building retrofitting is an effective way to install the latest systems and avoid problems resulting with existing ones.

These are just a few of the many benefits of retrofitting an existing building. For questions about the process, or to schedule your own retrofitting, contact us today.

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