6 Recommended Upgrades For a Pre-Owned Commercial Building

Steel Building Accessories Suppliers Know What Features Offer The Best Payback For Commercial Building Value.

Purchasing a pre-owned commercial building can be a cost-effective way to expand your business operations. However, it comes with the responsibility of ensuring that the building is in top condition to meet your needs. While many of the features of a pre-owned building may seem functional at first glance, it’s essential to inspect key elements critical for safety and efficiency closely. Design Components Inc., one of the nation’s most trusted steel building accessories suppliers, helps commercial building owners understand what features they may need to upgrade after purchaser to keep their buildings strong, safe, and valuable.

From the roof to the office space, here’s a checklist of features you should evaluate and consider upgrading to optimize your commercial property.

1. Roof Condition: Flashing, Rooftop Walkways, and Roof Curbs
Per recommendations from most steel building accessories suppliers, one of the first areas you should inspect is the roof. Roof damage can be a costly repair if not caught early. Ensure the roof is structurally sound, leak-free, and properly insulated. You should also assess whether essential accessories like roof curbs, flashing, and rooftop walkways are in good condition or needed.

• Flashing: Flashing is vital for preventing water from seeping through the roof’s joints and edges. Inspect for any corrosion or gaps, as poor flashing can lead to roof leaks and extensive water damage inside the building.
• Rooftop Walkways: Regular maintenance is critical for any commercial roof, especially if the HVAC system is housed there. Having a reliable rooftop walkway system can make it safer for personnel to access and maintain the roof.
  • The METALWALK® Rooftop Walkway System, available from Design Components, Inc., offers OSHA-compliant safety and durability, allowing for easier access during maintenance.
• Roof Curbs: If your building houses HVAC systems or other rooftop installations, check that roof curbs are structurally sound and adequately sealed. Worn-out roof curbs can lead to leaks and reduce energy efficiency.

2.Windows and Doors: Energy Efficiency and Security
Commercial windows and doors are the building’s first line of defense against weather and are crucial for energy efficiency and security. Older windows and doors may allow drafts, leading to higher energy bills and reduced employee comfort.

• Security: Ensure all commercial building windows and doors are secure, with updated locks and weather seals to prevent unwanted access and water intrusion.
• Energy Efficiency: Consider upgrading to double-pane windows or energy-efficient commercial doors if the existing ones are outdated. This investment can significantly lower your heating and cooling costs.

3.Canopies: Protection and Aesthetic Value
If your commercial building features canopies, check for signs of wear or rust, especially if they are made of metal. Canopies provide functional protection from the elements and contribute to the building’s overall aesthetic. Investing in durable, well-designed canopies can improve the building’s exterior while offering essential shelter. 

4.Space Expansion Needs: Considering a Mezzanine
As your company grows, you may need additional space within the same footprint. Adding a mezzanine can be an effective solution for increasing usable square footage without significant structural alterations.

• Storage and Office Space: A mezzanine can provide extra storage or be converted into additional office space. Ensure your building has the structural capacity to support a mezzanine if this is in your future plans.
• Material Handling: If you’re considering a mezzanine, think about how you will move materials and products between levels. Installing staircases, lifts, or even conveyor systems may be necessary depending on your operations.

5.Power Sources and Capabilities: Ensure the Building Meets Your Needs
Older commercial buildings may not be equipped to handle the power demands of modern businesses. Inspect the building’s electrical system to ensure it can safely support your company’s power needs.

• Electrical Capacity: Determine whether the existing wiring and electrical systems are up to code and capable of handling any machinery, lighting, or equipment your company will require, not just for now, but for future needs.  
• Backup Power: Consider installing backup power solutions like generators if your business relies on uninterrupted power, especially in areas prone to outages.

6.Interior Decor and Office Space: Functional and Aesthetic Upgrades
Finally, look at the interior decor and office spaces. Outdated interiors can detract from employee morale and productivity.

• Office Layout: If your commercial space includes offices, evaluate whether the current layout meets your team’s needs. You may need to reconfigure the space to make it more conducive to modern workflows.
• Interior Design: Refreshing the building’s interior with updated paint, flooring, and decor can give the space a more contemporary feel. Small changes can make a big difference in creating an environment in which employees and clients feel comfortable.

DCI Wants To Help You Bring Value To Your Commercial Building

If you’ve recently purchased a pre-owned commercial building and need to upgrade key building features, Design Components, Inc. can help. As the leading supplier of steel building accessories, we provide everything from METALWALK® Rooftop Walkway Systems to OSHA-compliant products that enhance the safety, functionality, and efficiency of your building. Our expertise in flashing, roof curbs, and other essential accessories ensures your building is well-equipped for both daily operations and long-term use.

To learn more about how we can help you optimize your commercial building with top-quality steel building accessories, Contact Us or Call Us at (800) 868-9910 today for a free consultation!