Author: MaintenX

Choosing Low-Maintenance Flowers for Your Commercial Landscaping

Summer is in full swing, which means that it’s time to start thinking about your landscaping. Customers and tenants will be spending more time outside, which means you’ll want your outdoor premises to look their best. However, landscaping upkeep is no easy task in the summer. If you want a low-maintenance landscape for your commercial building this summer, here’s what we recommend: 

 

Peonies – These durable plants will handle six or more hours of sun every day, making them ideal for summer planting. Plus, peonies smell wonderful when they bloom which instantly enhances the storefront. Peonies come in a range of colors and will grow in most states in the U.S. use them in flower beds with some afternoon shade and you’ll be delighted with what these flowers can do. 

 

Daylilies – Daylilies are very popular perennials because of their drought tolerance and ability to grow in both light shade and full sun. Despite being such a hardy and versatile plant, the delicate blooms on these flowers are absolutely stunning.  With a wide range of colors to choose from, you can use daylilies for all types of landscaping. 

 

Carex – Carex is not a flower, but a popular decorative grass that will grow in most landscaping conditions. It is non-invasive to most areas and is therefore easy to contain in smaller areas. There are many different color and size options for carex, so ask your MaintenX landscaping team for varieties that best suit your facility. 

 

Begonias – Begonias are a beautiful flower species that are often found in prized personal gardens as well as commercial landscaping. These delicate blooms can handle shade or sun and grow well in containers or in the ground. For a stunning burst of color in your commercial landscaping, begonias are a great choice. 

 

Coneflowers – Coneflowers are another colorful addition to your commercial storefront or garden space. These hardy flowers will survive from early spring until the first frosts and can handle the full sun well. Plus, coneflowers attract pollinators which will improve the health of your flowers overall. 

 

Feather Reed Grass – Feather reed grass is another popular ornamental grass that can grow up to six feet tall in the right conditions. It is drought and sun-tolerant and remains upright no matter how tall it gets. However, you can easily trim back this grass for smaller garden beds. 

 

By incorporating some of these low-maintenance plants into your commercial landscaping, you can instantly improve your curb appeal without increasing your landscaping budget. To learn more about summer landscaping for commercial facilities, contact your local MaintenX team today for tips!

Choosing Rock vs Mulch for Your Commercial Landscaping

Summer is the perfect time to invest in your landscaping. Not only will your summer plants need additional care as the weather heats up, but you’ll want to make a positive impression as more and more customers start visiting your storefront. However, choosing the right landscaping look for your store can be tricky. One of the most difficult decisions to make is whether to lay down rock or mulch for your outdoor landscaping. 

 

MaintenX wants our customers to always make informed decisions about their indoor and outdoor maintenance. Below we’ve compiled a list of pros and cons for both rock and mulch to help you better understand your options for this summer:

The Pros and Cons of Mulch

Mulch is a natural landscape bedding option that helps to deter weeds and uneven grass growth around flower beds or shrubbery. While it is great for nurturing plants, it can cause other issues in your landscaping project. 

 

The Pros

 

  • Mulch retains moisture which can help plants stay hydrated and grow
  • Mulch naturally deters weeds from growing
  • As mulch breaks down, it provides nutrients for the soil to facilitate plant growth
  • Mulch naturally insulates the ground to keep plants alive in winter

The Cons

 

  • Mulch must be replaced annually as it breaks down
  • Over-mulching can smother plants and cause issues in their growth
  • Cheap mulch can come with weed seeds that ruin your plant beds

The Pros and Cons of Rock or Gravel

Rock and gravel can be used in landscaping beds for both aesthetic and practical purposes. Not only does this option look clean but it is easy to maintain. However, rock is not the best option for every commercial landscape. 

 

The Pros

 

  • Though rock is more expensive upfront, it is cost-effective in the long run because it does not need to be replaced
  • Rock provides protection against weeds in your plant beds
  • Rock is lower maintenance than mulch

 

The Cons

 

  • Rocks can sometimes affect the pH levels in the soil
  • Rock can also raise soil temperatures in some cases
  • Rock does not provide any nutritional benefit which means that the care of the plant bed will be more intensive than with mulch

 

MaintenX can help you make the right choice for your specific needs and lawn care maintenance plan. To learn more about our landscaping services, contact your local MaintenX today!

Benefits of Commercial Groundskeeping

As we head into the summer months, most businesses are starting to think about their lawn care more seriously. Without a proper groundskeeping plan in place, before the summer begins, you may end up with a dead, weedy, or otherwise unsightly outdoor area on your commercial property. While employees can take care of some of the groundskeeping tasks, we typically recommend hiring a professional landscaping team for many reasons. 

 

One of the biggest reasons facility managers should hire a groundskeeping service is consistency. If you leave it up to your staff, the outdoor maintenance tasks will always get pushed to the back burner when something more important comes up. This is the least effective way of maintaining outdoor plants and grass that need consistent care during the summer. By hiring a groundskeeper, you can get rid of this hassle and see results quickly. 

 

A well-maintained outdoor facility will also increase curb appeal and property value. If you are looking to rent or sell a commercial property, regular lawn maintenance can help you to justifiably increase the price. A well-maintained outdoor space can also speed up the resale process by up to six weeks. Curb appeal is a big seller and will make your job much easier in the long run. 

 

Groundskeeping services can help make your facility a greener place. By planting native flowers and shrubs you can make your facility a healthier place for employees and surrounding wildlife. You may even be able to attract butterflies and other pollinators, which can keep your lawn looking lush and will boost mood and productivity for your employees. A green facility is typically a happier one. By investing in your lawn, you can invest in the sustainable future of your company. 

 

Finally, groundskeeping services will aid in customer retention. A first impression is often the most memorable one. If your facility looks well taken care of, customers will feel like they are spending their money at a place that cares about quality. If your grounds are unsightly, however, you can expect your customers to take this into account on their opinions of your business. 

 

Hiring a landscaping professional from MaintenX can help you tremendously during the busy summer season. To learn more about our outdoor maintenance services, contact your local MaintenX team today! We are more than happy to help. 

Why OEM Parts Are Preferable To After-Market Replacements

Original equipment manufacturers (OEM) parts are ideal for most facility repairs. If you are following a preventative maintenance plan with MaintenX, your technicians will be interested in creating a detailed list of each manufacturer for your various facility systems parts. This includes HVAC, roofing, electrical, plumbing, and other facility equipment that you regularly service. By having the original manufacturer’s replacement parts on hand you are making your technician’s job easier and your repair more successful long-term. 

 

There are several reasons why OEM parts are preferable to generic or after-market parts for repair: 

 

OEM parts generally have a higher ROI than aftermarket parts. 

An original manufacturer’s replacement parts are typically higher in value, and will therefore have a higher ROI than aftermarket general parts. This is because they are less likely to need future repair or replacement and will cause fewer issues with other installed parts in the equipment. Some aftermarket parts are not fully compatible with specific manufacturers and can cause underlying issues if not installed correctly. 

 

OEM parts are more reliable. 

Aftermarket parts are often chosen because they are cheap and readily available. However, they are made more cheaply and are therefore less reliable for long-term use. By using generic parts as a long-term solution, you’re putting your facility at risk for future equipment failures. 

 

OEM parts are often warrantied. 

Generic parts are typically made more cheaply which can cause issues with the entire system. This can void your equipment warranty if the generic part causes other issues within the machinery. By purchasing OEM parts you’ll likely receive a warranty for the piece itself and will preserve your warranty with the original manufacturer. 

 

In order to use the preferred OEM parts, you’ll need to have them on hand for facility repairs. By keeping parts on hand for your HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and roofing repairs, you can improve the quality of your preventative and reactive maintenance repairs. 

 

Talk to MaintenX about keeping OEM parts onsite for general repairs. Your technicians will help you to determine what should be onsite, and what pieces of equipment are easy to replace in emergencies. 

 

To learn more about our emergency and preventative repair services, contact your local MaintenX today!

 

Choosing To Repair or Replace Commercial Kitchen Equipment

The food service industry is one of the most intensely competitive and difficult to break into. With a slim profit margin and competition on every corner, restaurant and commercial kitchen managers need to make wise decisions every step of the way in order to succeed. This is true even with the maintenance of their commercial kitchen. You need to save costs as much as possible without compromising the efficiency of your kitchen. 

 

The choice to repair or replace your commercial kitchen equipment is a difficult one. 30 years ago most commercial kitchen equipment was repairable by employees because it was simple to operate. However, more and more high-tech options are being introduced into the foodservice industry that makes a professional repair service necessary for even minor issues. 

 

It’s more and more difficult to understand your equipment and when it’s reached the end of its service life. You’ll want to ask your repair professionals the following questions before determining whether to repair or replace your kitchen equipment: 

 

  • Will my warranty cover the needed repairs? Cost-savings are a top priority for commercial kitchen managers. If your warranty will cover certain repairs, you should always take advantage of this before replacing the equipment. 
  • Is this piece of equipment close to the end of its service life? One of the signs of a declining piece of commercial equipment is an increase in the frequency of repairs. This could mean your equipment is on its way out, and that repairing its current issues will only lead to more repairs. Ask your MaintenX professional about the expected service life for your equipment if it is having recurring issues. 
  • Are you looking for an upgrade? There is probably at least one piece of equipment that you’ve considered upgrading over the next few years. If this piece of equipment is experiencing repeated repairs, you may want to consider replacing it now. You’ll save more money in the long run with an energy-efficient and modern equipment design than repairing something that is outdated. 

Maintaining a commercial kitchen is a balancing act. To learn more about your options for commercial kitchen repairs and installations, contact your local MaintenX team today!

The Benefits of a BUR Roofing System

Have you heard of a built-up roofing (BUR) system for commercial buildings? These innovative roofing designs are becoming the industry standard for many commercial applications. They are durable, affordable, and will outlast most other roofing options within the same price range. If you’re considering re-roofing your commercial building, this may be the solution for you. 

 

A built-up roofing system uses layers of asphalt and sheets of insulation to build a water, heat, and mold-resistant surface on your roof. Most BUR systems are built on top of a layer of polyisocyanurate insulation. Then, a layer of asphalt is poured over the base, and a play sheet (the layer of insulation) molded on top of the asphalt. 

 

The insulation barrier is the most important layer of the BUR system, it prevents moisture from penetrating to the base and is layered over and over again with asphalt to create a thick, impenetrable barrier against corrosion. Once enough layers have been created, the roofing is capped with a flood coat of asphalt or in some cases a reflective coating. .

 

Redundancy – BUR roofing systems are redundant, which makes them exceptionally weather- and damage-resistant. If one layer is penetrated, the layers underneath still provide a barrier to rain, debris, and mold. This is a major benefit for buildings that are at risk to roof damage due to volatile weather or that are exposed to prolonged periods of extreme heat. 

 

Energy-efficient – Many BUR systems include reflective cap sheets to reflect the sun’s rays and reduce heat absorbed into the building. This can help keep your energy costs low in the summertime and prevent roofing damage due to the UV rays. These roofing systems are also ideal for rooftop HVAC systems and solar panels, increasing your building’s energy efficiency. 

 

Longevity – BUR systems have been in use for over 100 years. They are time-tested and typically last longer than shingle or tiled roofing. Because of this, many BUR systems have warranties that last upward of 20 years. Check with your manufacturer to learn about the warranty offers for your BUR roof, as well as your MaintenX specialists for how to maximize its lifespan through preventative care. 

 

At MaintenX, we help our clients maintain their BUR systems to ensure they reach maximum lifespan and hold up to any weather condition. To learn more about our preventative maintenance services for roofing, contact your local MaintenX team today!

When to Schedule A Roofing Inspection?

Commercial roofing is a complex system that needs more care and maintenance than most facility managers estimate. Your roofing is the second-most important structural element other than your foundation. It protects your facility, provides both functional and aesthetic appeal, and may even be home to an HVAC system or solar panels. Therefore, it is critical that you stay up to date on roofing repairs and maintenance. 

 

At MaintenX, we recommend scheduling a roof inspection annually in the springtime to ensure your roof is ready for hurricane season. Hurricanes and severe storms typically begin around May or June. If you plan your inspection ahead of time, you can complete any necessary repairs before the first major rainfall hits. 

 

The Benefits of a Roofing Inspection

A roof inspection is recommended every year for several reasons. First and foremost, we do not want our clients to have potential roof damage during the summer hurricane season, as this can lead to roof collapses or other severe damage. There are many ancillary benefits to annual roofing inspections for your building including: 

 

  • Cost-savings by performing preventative instead of reactive repairs
  • Improving ventilation and HVAC performance
  • Preventing mold and mildew damage
  • Preventing pest issues on roofing
  • Increasing service life of roofing
  • Aids in insurance claims and protects your roofing warranty

 

What To Expect During Your Roofing Inspection

Depending on the size of your property and the number of buildings onsite, your roofing inspection may take several hours or several days. Your contractors will be looking for signs of damage including leaks, sun damage, and missing shingles or panels. Some of these repairs might be minor, while others will need immediate attention. You should prepare some time and a budget for potential repairs after you go over the results of your inspection with the roofing contractor. 

 

At MaintenX, we make roof maintenance easy. Our team of trusted roofing specialists will talk you through preventative steps to keep your roof in tip-top shape. For more information on our preventative services, contact us today!

The Service Life of Four Types of Commercial Roofing

Your roofing system is one of the most crucial elements of your building’s exterior. It is home to your rooftop HVAC system, ventilation, and can even be used for energy-efficient solar panels. Choosing the right roofing material is essential for the long-term upkeep of your facility. Below are some of the most common types of commercial roofing systems and the expected service life for each: 

 

TPO 

Typical thermoplastic olefin (TPO) roofing is a synthetic roofing material commonly used for flat roofing systems. They are strong, simplistic in design and can last 15-20 years with regular maintenance. They will, however, last even longer if you implement a preventative maintenance plan with MaintenX.

 

Metal roofing

Metal is used for sloped commercial roofing and comes in a wide variety of options. Galvanized steel, aluminum, zinc, and copper are popular choices, and are usually coated to protect them from rusting and abrasion. These roofing systems can last up to 50 years depending on the quality of the metal, the angle of the slope, and the investment in proper maintenance. 

 

EPDM rubber

EPDM rubber is a sturdy, weather-resistant roofing material also common for flat roofing. It is shock resistant which is ideal when your area experiences hail, or if you have rooftop HVAC systems that need regular service. The rubber absorbs pressure and prevents the roof from taking long-term damage. EPDM is a highly durable roofing material that can last up to 30 years with proper care. 

 

Asphalt shingles

Asphalt shingles are one of the most affordable roofing options for commercial buildings. These roofs are layered strategically to reduce uplift from the wind. While they are simple to maintain and affordable to install, asphalt shingles will typically only last 10-25 years with proper maintenance. They are prone to falling off during bad weather and may crack when exposed to extreme heat and UV rays. 

 

No matter what roofing material you choose for your commercial building, MaintenX is here to help! We offer comprehensive roofing maintenance services for commercial facilities across the U.S. Contact us today to learn more!

Should You Use Asphalt Shingles for Your Roofing?

Asphalt shingles are one of the most common types of roofing for both residential and commercial facilities alike. This affordable roofing material is easy to install and looks nice with most architectural designs. However, it is not the right choice for every commercial facility. If you’re considering asphalt for your roof, keep these # things in mind: 

 

Shingles come in basic and stylized designs

One of the primary benefits of asphalt shingles is the sheer variety of designs and colors available. Basic shingles are affordable and will still look nice, but you can upgrade to architectural shingles that give a 3D effect, or other premium shingles that can be made to look like cedar shake or terra cotta roofing. Not all roofing materials give you this variety of design and color options. 

 

Shingles are affordable but don’t last as long as other roofing materials

On average, asphalt shingles will last between 15-20 years. As opposed to a concrete flat roof or terra cotta, this is not a long service life for a commercial roof. However, an asphalt shingle roof is affordable to replace and easier to repair than a solid roofing material. If a concrete flat roof is damaged, for example, you’ll likely have to replace the entire roof. If your shingles are damaged, you can replace them individually for an affordable price. 

 

Shingles are susceptible to weather damage

Due to their designs, cheaper shingles may lift up during extreme wind and are more susceptible to water damage than other types of roofing. They can also crack from overexposure to sun and heat in the summertime. While this is an issue for buildings that are exposed to severe heat or storms, they are again very easy to replace individually. If your asphalt roofing is damaged, you can replace shingles individually instead of re-roofing your entire facility. 

 

Shingles don’t necessarily add value to your building

Shingles are very common for residential and commercial roofing, and they are not always compatible with advancements in commercial building technology such as solar roofing and rooftop energy-efficient HVAC systems. If you are looking toward the future, you may want to choose a different material to re-roof your building. However, if you are looking for maximum value for your investment, asphalt shingles are a great material to choose. 

 

MaintenX specializes in roofing repair and installations for all types of commercial roofing. If you’re interested in roofing repairs or replacement, contact us today!

What You Need To Know About Roofing Walk Pads

Most commercial roofing utilizes walk pads for protection of the roofing and for safety. These walk pads create a barrier between the roofing and workers who may have to walk on it, such as roofing specialists and HVAC repairmen. Otherwise, walking on the bare roof may cause damage over time. Typically, these walk pads are made of similar material to the roof and lead to the roof’s HVAC units or ventilation sites. 

 

While we recommend adding walk pads to your roofing, you need to do so strategically. Below are some tips we recommend for optimal installation of walk pads for your roofing: 

 

Install sparingly

Walk pads protect your roofing against long-term damage, which makes them a necessary part of preventative maintenance. However, they can become expensive if you decide to cover your rooftop with them. We recommend reducing your expenses by only adding walk pads en route to areas where repairs will be most needed such as to your rooftop HVAC system or rooftop drainage. 

 

Create a direct line from the access point to our HVAC system.

Most repairmen won’t notice the pathway you lay out for your walk pads immediately. They will simply make a beeline for the HVAC system or area of the roofing that needs repair. For this reason, we suggest designing your walk pads for practicality rather than in an aesthetic pattern. 

 

Ensure proper water drainage.

Unfortunately, walk pads can impede water drainage of your roofing system if too many are installed. If you install walk pads, make sure you have proper water drainage and a system in place to clean it regularly. Your walk pads will do no good if your roof is having water damage issues instead. 

 

Consider cover board

If you have a lot of surface area to cover and are concerned about the price of walk pads, a cover board may also be an option for your roofing system. This layer will protect the roofing membrane and is typically less expensive per square foot than walk padding. Talk to your MaintenX professional about this option for your roofing system. 

 

There are many different ways to protect your roofing from foot traffic and exterior damage. If you’d like to learn more about roofing maintenance and repairs, contact your local MaintenX today! We are always happy to help with all your roofing needs.