Project Example: Renovation of Existing Building

When considering an innovative technology for an existing building, many elements that go into the decisionmaking process will be the same as for new construction regarding performance issues. Of course, you will want to:

• Review manufacturers’ literature regarding performance, reliability, and longevity; compare with other product options.
• Identify third party testing that has been performed and product designations, if any.
• Perform an Internet search to gain perspective on broader experience nationwide.
• Identify examples of local installations.
• Identify local installers and their qualifications.

In addition, however, an existing building will warrant additional considerations simply because of the need for the technology to “fit in with” the systems and materials that are already in place and not planned as part of the renovation. It is also important to ask the following questions regarding your maintenance staff and the current residents of the building.

• Does the maintenance staff have the skills to perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting?
• Do the residents have the skills and knowledge to operate the system properly, or can they develop the knowledge?
• What are the consequences if either of these groups fails to maintain or operate the system properly? Would such a failure result in complete breakdown or simply less than optimum performance?