Commercial Remodeling – June 2024

There can be many unforeseen challenges in the realm of commercial remodeling. Businesses investing in commercial real estate want their spaces to reflect their company’s values and overall personality while also being functional for heir operating needs. In short, these spaces have to be specific and unique. This specificity creates unexpected hurdles that can stall progress and inflate budgets.

From structural surprises lurking behind walls to regulatory requirements that demand abrupt pivots, navigating the landscape of commercial renovation demands foresight and strategic planning. Let’s delve into the intricate tapestry of commercial remodeling, by looking at some preemptive measures to ensure a smoother journey from concept to completion.

To prepare ahead of time, consider the following strategies:

1. Conduct thorough site inspections to uncover hidden structural issues or compliance concerns.
2. Engage with experienced architects and contractors who specialize in commercial renovations.
3. Develop a comprehensive budget that includes contingency funds for unexpected expenses.
4. Familiarize yourself with local building codes and regulations to anticipate compliance requirements.
5. Communicate openly and regularly with stakeholders to manage expectations and address concerns proactively.
6. Create a detailed project timeline with built-in buffers to accommodate delays or revisions.
7. Invest in technology and software tools for project management and communication to streamline processes and enhance collaboration.
8. Build strong relationships with vendors and suppliers to ensure timely delivery of materials and equipment.
9. Consider potential disruptions to business operations and develop contingency plans to minimize downtime.
10. Stay flexible and adaptable, ready to pivot and problem-solve as new challenges arise during the remodeling process.

When in doubt, it’s always best to leave concerns to the pros, especially in the commercial world. Here are some local business that can guide you through your next remodel.

Leave the “Unknowns” to the Pros

The pros at Lincoln Demolition and Excavation (lincolndemoandex.com) love working with their commercial remodeling partners. Every day that they work on these projects is an opportunity for them to transform an existing space into their customer’s desired vision for their new work space! Although they do love these types of projects, any project comes with obstacles, and they do sometimes encounter challenges that are natural to renovating an existing space – the unknowns.

“Whether it be mold behind drywall, structural integrity issues, rodent/insect problems or underground obstacles, we don’t have a way to see these issues beforehand or account for them in our quotes. So, we do find ourselves in a difficult situation when we discover these issues and have to discuss change orders with customers that affect pricing,” says Owner, Jake Metz. “Clients can plan ahead by being aware that unknowns can arise on projects that may increase the overall cost of a project. We find it best to allow for these potential unknowns in your overall budget and to be understanding while you work with your contractor to remediate the issue at hand. Regardless of any unknowns or difficulties that arise on projects Lincoln Demolition & Excavation will always prioritize transparency and communication with their customers in order to find a solution.”

They take great care and pride in this transparency and communication so that they remain a trusted partner with each and every one of their current and future customers. Lincoln Demolition and Excavation is here to make your vision a reality!

Working Around Your Schedule

One concern that is very unique to commercial remodeling is timing. In commercial remodeling, you are working around business hours, clients and customers, and sometimes this can present quite a challenge.

Gunther Baker, Owner of Icon Plumbing (iconplumbingne.com) says, “Timing is often a challenge, the timeline that is optimal or even initially laid out by contractors is not always feasible due to many factors, such as unforeseen circumstances, tenants not being ready, things simply taking more time than expected or materials being delayed. The list can be long. Clients planning to remodel commercial space should focus on making sure they have planned enough time and even have a buffer to absorb some of the delays that could happen. Paying attention to all the details can help with mitigating some of these delays as well. Communication with everyone involved in the project is key to a successful project.”

Icon Plumbing has dealt with these challenges in the past and they are efficient at navigating them for a successful project. They are ready to be your go to source for plumbing needs in your new (or refreshed) space.

Spaces That Reflect Your Brand

No stranger to commercial remodeling, Remy Refinishing (remyrefinishing.com) offers some insight into painting your new space to reflect your brand.

“The biggest challenges with commercial painting are the logistics that go into it,” says Jeremy Day of Remy Refinishing. “Do we need to work special hours? How will we shut down certain areas for us to get our work done during normal business hours? How will we plan to work around other contractors in the building? The communication level needs to be high in the planning phase of the project for things to run smoothly.”

Communication is key to the success of any project. Luckily, Remy Refinishing has been in the business for many years. They’ve seen it all and they will paint your walls the perfect shade with the least hassle to your business.

Efficient Commercial Remodeling: Reduce Costs, Increase Savings

In today’s commercial spaces, building automation is increasingly common, offering intelligent control systems that enhance efficiency and productivity. Engineered Controls (engineeredcontrols.com) provides affordable integrated building control and automation systems, making buildings smarter and more efficient by streamlining essential instrumentation and control processes.

Owner, Pat Killeen highlights the benefits, “These systems save energy, lower operational costs, and create productive and secure environments. Our building automation platforms connect HVAC, lighting and safety systems, enabling seamless communication and informed decision-making.”

During commercial remodeling, Engineered Controls assists in implementing energy-saving solutions to reduce expenses. Energy constitutes the largest expense in a building’s operating budget, with 30% often used inefficiently. To combat this, a comprehensive strategy to reduce energy consumption is essential.

“We offer a comprehensive energy evaluation program led by our certified Energy and Environmental Optimization (EEO) professionals,” explains Pat. “Equipped with training and experience, our EEO professionals assess your building’s current state and consult on energy efficiency goals.”

Engineered Controls’ EEO program identifies underperforming buildings and automates corrective actions, accelerating the implementation of energy conservation measures to optimize facility performance.

“When selecting a partner for energy reduction projects, choose one with experience and an extensive product portfolio to customize the right plan for your building,” advises Pat. “Stay informed on energy rebates and incentives with a knowledgeable partner. At Engineered Controls, our solutions prioritize cost and energy savings while ensuring compliance with regulations and enhancing comfort, safety and convenience.”

Revitalize Your Concrete Surfaces

Concrete Craft of Lincoln (concretecraft.com) offers a range of solutions for both interior and exterior concrete, catering to basic flatwork needs and providing decorative finishes with added color and texture. Whether for new construction or renovation projects, their team specializes in transforming plain concrete floors into eye-catching features. From elaborate designs to customized logos, Concrete Craft has the expertise to bring your vision to life. Even if you prefer simple grey concrete, they can assist in selecting the right finish for easy maintenance and durability. With a variety of budget-friendly solutions, Concrete Craft ensures that you don’t have to settle for plain concrete finishes.

With decades of experience, ongoing employee training, and the use of top-quality products, Concrete Craft delivers premium flooring solutions that enhance the overall appearance of your space. Contact Concrete Craft today to discuss your concrete flooring needs and let their experienced team help you transform your space!

Evolve Your Walls

Revitalizing your commercial space with a fresh look can work wonders for your business’s image and functionality. When it comes to professional remodeling, look no further than Walter’s Painting Inc. (walterspaintinginc.com) Their team specializes in delivering efficient, reliable service with minimal disruption to your business operations, ensuring your project is completed on time and within budget.

“The number one common challenge is deadlines. Clients can and will have a hard time planning ahead if we have prior commitments, So sometimes we will have to be honest and tell our clients this is where we are schedule wise plus the deposit is what gets people on our schedule,” says Owner, Jeff Walters.

Walter’s Painting makes the process seamless by providing free estimates, thorough preparation work, and consultations throughout the project. From the initial planning stages to the final inspection, they ensure your satisfaction every step of the way.

“While some businesses may consider handling remodeling projects themselves, it can be time-consuming and overwhelming,” explains Jeff Walters. “In today’s fast-paced business environment, most owners simply don’t have the time for such tasks. That’s where we come in, making the process stress-free and delivering superior quality and results.”

At Walter’s Painting Inc., client satisfaction is their top priority. Their mission is to remain a leading contractor by consistently delivering high-quality workmanship. Trust them to transform your commercial space into a vibrant, functional environment that reflects your business’s vision and values.

Tips From Remodeling Veterans

As an employee-owned firm that has been in business for over 60 years, you can be assured that Cheever Construction (cheeverconstruction.com) will deliver on their promises. They’ve completed numerous renovations, historical renovations and new construction projects since their start. For each project, decisions on many different aspects will affect the ultimate outcome.

Here are their tips for a successful commercial remodel:

Engage Professionals Early: Involve architects, designers, and contractors from the outset to develop a comprehensive plan that considers all aspects of the remodel.
Set Realistic Goals: Define project objectives clearly and prioritize requirements based on business needs and budget constraints.
Understand Building Codes: Research local regulations and ensure compliance before finalizing designs or beginning construction.
Allocate Sufficient Time: Allow ample time for planning, approvals, and construction. Rushing through any phase can lead to costly mistakes.
Communicate: Maintain open lines of communication with all stakeholders involved in the project to address concerns promptly and avoid misunderstandings.

By addressing these challenges proactively, clients can streamline the remodeling process and achieve successful outcomes for their commercial spaces.

Excellence in Electrical Solutions

With a legacy spanning 90 years in the Lincoln business community, ABC Electric (abcelectric.net) boasts the expertise to tackle any electrical application. Their proficiency in LED lighting and controls places them at the forefront of sustainable design, offering innovative solutions to differentiate your business.

“We recently completed an interior renovation for the VA in the Denney Federal building,” shared Project Manager Jon Eicher. “From LED lighting and controls to fire alarm system upgrades and data infrastructure, our comprehensive services cover all aspects of electrical installations. This is just one example of the diverse projects we excel in.”

ABC Electric observes a rising demand for energy-efficient LED lighting and advanced lighting controls. They are adept at integrating the latest data technology infrastructure, ensuring clients receive optimal solutions. Moreover, their data installations are backed by a 25-year warranty, demonstrating their commitment to quality and longevity.

“When embarking on a commercial remodeling project, it’s crucial to engage professionals in their respective fields,” advises Jon. “Securing the necessary permits and preparing a detailed budget, including a contingency fund, helps mitigate unforeseen challenges.”

Choose ABC Electric for unparalleled electrical solutions that elevate your commercial space with efficiency and innovation.

Remodeling Begins With Engineering:

While not directly involved in the physical construction of commercial buildings, REGA Engineering Group (regaeng.com) plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of such endeavors. Serving as a comprehensive civil engineering firm, they bring expertise in various areas crucial to commercial remodeling projects, including site development, ALTA surveys, floodplain management, platting, landscape architecture, irrigation design and investigative engineering. Their extensive presence across multiple states has enhanced their knowledge base and problem-solving capabilities.

The ongoing involvement of REGA Engineering Group’s engineering professionals throughout the remodeling process serves as a vital safeguard against potential challenges. Their engineers conduct frequent on-site visits, closely monitoring water and drainage plans to ensure they align with project requirements and exceed industry standards.

The diverse array of public and private civil engineering projects undertaken by REGA underscores their proficiency. Their portfolio encompasses site development and grading, recreational facilities, pedestrian and recreation trail design, roadway plans, storm and sanitary sewer analysis, parking lot design, stormwater drainage studies, detention facilities, potable water system design and soil erosion control measures for both temporary and permanent installations, as well as utility relocations.

With their wealth of experience and expertise, REGA Engineering Group emerges as an invaluable resource in engineering and surveying services for commercial remodeling projects. Their proficiency across various facets of civil engineering, combined with their comprehensive service offerings, significantly contributes to the success and seamless execution of commercial remodeling initiatives.

Illuminate Your Space

When embarking on a building remodel, lighting should not be overlooked in your project blueprint. With a plethora of options available, the impact of lighting choices can truly transform your environment.

Amidst the National Electrical Contractors Association’s report revealing that less than 10% of electrical contractors nationwide are women-owned, Oak Electric, Inc. (oakelectriccompany.com) stands proudly as one of them. Crystal Collins, the Sole Proprietor, maintains a deliberate focus on her team’s success, ensuring they are equipped with everything necessary for excellence, be it new tools in the field, skill enhancement, safety training or administrative support. Backed by a team of proficient professionals, Oak Electric is primed to illuminate your space.

“Lighting stands as one of the pivotal aspects in any building,” emphasized Matt Collins, Oak Electric’s Master Electrician. “For instance, if you’re investing substantially in a new workspace, why not consider installing under-cabinet lights to accentuate the area? Similarly, in bathrooms, adding new lighting fixtures over the shower or bath can remarkably highlight your investment.”

According to Matt, strategically positioned can lights indoors are currently trending, alongside directional lighting designs to accentuate artwork or photography on display. External lighting also holds significance.

“Exterior lighting is as vital for your business’s ambiance as interior lighting,” noted Matt. “Outdoor illumination ensures safety post-sunset and enhances your space’s inviting curb appeal.”

However, Matt cautioned that before initiating any project, it’s imperative to understand its implications on the building’s electrical system to guarantee safety for both you and your establishment. “Prior to commencing any project, it’s imperative to have a licensed electrician assess your building’s electrical panel to ensure its capability to accommodate all upgrades safely.”

Revitalize Your Commercial Space

At Kingery Construction (kccobuilders.com), they specialize in comprehensive commercial remodeling solutions, covering every aspect from pre-construction planning to project completion. Their team’s exceptional management skills and unwavering work ethic ensure the highest standard of workmanship on every remodeling project. At Kingery, they deeply value their relationships and are dedicated to upholding the trust and respect of all stakeholders, including employees, project owners, vendors and partners.

“Our extensive experience encompasses various construction processes, including Design Build, Design Bid Build, Construction Management and General Contracting,” explained Jen Cowher, Director of Construction Operations at Kingery. “This, coupled with our commitment to excellence, enables us to consistently surpass our clients’ expectations.”

Kingery remains at the forefront of the construction industry, staying abreast of advancements and emerging trends.

Amidst industry challenges like rising construction costs and material supply shortages, Kingery remains resilient, leveraging expertise to find cost-effective alternatives without compromising quality or sustainability.

“We’re excited to announce our expansion into the Omaha market through the acquisition of Construct Inc.,” shared Jen. “This strategic move aligns with our goal of delivering exceptional commercial remodeling services across Nebraska. By integrating the expertise of Construct Inc.’s employees, we’re poised to maintain our position as a premier provider of construction services for years to come.”

Concrete Flatwork Finishing

Several challenges may arise with remodeling commercial spaces when dealing with concrete flatwork finishing. Existing concrete surfaces might require extensive preparation before applying new finishes. This can involve removing old coatings, repairing cracks, and ensuring the surface is clean and level. Merritt Concrete (merrittlincoln.com) is here to help.

“Commercial remodeling projects often have tight deadlines. Coordinating our concrete finishing work with other aspects of the project can be challenging and may require careful scheduling to minimize disruptions to the business. Clients may have specific design preferences or branding requirements that we must incorporate into the concrete finishing. This could involve custom colors, textures, or patterns, requiring specialized techniques or materials,” says Terry Howell, General Manager of Merritt Concrete.

Commercial spaces typically experience high foot traffic, so the durability of the concrete finish is crucial. To minimize long-term costs, clients should consider options that can withstand heavy use and are easy to maintain.

Like any construction project, budget constraints can be a significant consideration. Clients need to balance cost-effectiveness with the desired quality and aesthetics of the finished concrete. Clients can take several steps to prepare for these challenges. One is to involve concrete contractors and finishers like us in the project’s planning stages. Our expertise can help identify potential challenges and develop strategies to address them effectively. Clearly communicate your requirements and expectations to us at the outset. This includes design preferences, budget constraints, and project timelines. Conduct a thorough inspection of the existing concrete surfaces early in planning. Identify any issues that need to be addressed before finishing work can begin.

“Remain flexible and open to alternative solutions if unexpected challenges arise during remodeling. This may involve adjusting the design or schedule to accommodate unforeseen circumstances. Prioritize quality assurance throughout the project to ensure the finished concrete meets the desired durability, aesthetics, and functionality standards. By addressing these considerations proactively and involving experienced professionals like us early in the process, clients can minimize challenges and ensure a successful outcome for their commercial remodeling project.”

Distinguished Family Owned Team

For your next full-scale commercial remodeling project, look to Pershing Demolition (pershingdemo.com). This distinguished, family owned demolition and excavating company, stands as a cornerstone in the realm of commercial construction, leveraging over two decades of expertise to translate clients’ visions into tangible reality.

Renowned for their commitment to excellence and a strong emphasis on honesty and hard work, Pershing Demolition has earned a reputation for reliability and professionalism in handling projects of diverse scales.
Pershing empowers their clients to envision ambitious projects that go hand in hand with the support of the skilled demolition and excavation team. Equipped with a modern fleet of heavy machinery capable of tackling projects of any magnitude, no commercial demo project is too big or too small for Pershing!

Certified in MSHA & OSHA, Pershing Demolition prioritizes safety and regulatory compliance, ensuring a smooth construction process.