Author: MaintenX

Four Small Roofing Issues That Will Cause Big Repairs

Your facility’s roofing takes more damage than the rest of your facility on a daily basis. It is exposed to intense sun, rain, wind, falling debris, and even snow in some areas. It can also be damaged by foot traffic, faulty repairs, and myriad human errors during installation or maintenance. Hopefully, you’ve chosen the professionals at MaintenX for all of your roofing repairs. However, even with top-notch care your roof can experience maintenance issues throughout the year that need to be addressed. 

 

Below are four common roofing issues that often lead to major repairs when they are not addressed immediately. If you notice any of these issues with your roofing, contact your MaintenX specialists immediately:

 

Gaps in flashing

Flashing is used as a protective layer against moisture and debris, but sometimes gaps can develop around a roof penetration such as a ventilation site or from damage to the roofing. If the damage goes unnoticed during your roof inspection, it can allow water to seep in and cause permanent damage to your facility. By the time you notice the water damage from the inside, you’ll be in for thousands of dollars of roofing and interior repairs. 

 

Debris buildup

Debris in your gutters, stuck between shingles, or simply piling up on your roof is much more than an eyesore. It can put added weight onto your roofing system which can cause it to deteriorate and buckle under the pressure. Organic debris such as leaves and tree branches will also retain moisture which leads to mold growth. Proper roof inspections and cleaning will reduce problems related to debris. 

 

Restricted water runoff

Whether you have a gutter system or a drainage system for flat roofing, clogged water drainage is a major problem for roofing. This immediately leads to water damage which you may not notice until it has caused serious internal damage. This can even put your electrical and HVAC systems at risk if they are involved in the water damage. Schedule regular gutter or drain cleanings to ensure you never run into this issue.

 

Roof membrane damage

This is nearly impossible for the untrained eye to spot. Oftentimes, membrane damage occurs when workers are walking around the roof, or after a major storm has caused serious roof damage. This reduces your roofing’s ability to withstand water and can weaken its entire structure if not repaired quickly. Roofing inspections from MaintenX can help you spot membrane and other roofing structural damage before it becomes catastrophic. 

 

MaintenX’s roofing specialists can help you find roofing issues early and repair them for an affordable cost. Don’t let your roofing issues go unnoticed! Schedule a consultation today to learn what MaintenX can do for you. 

How To Prevent Overworking Your HVAC System This Summer

Summertime is one of the busiest seasons for restaurants, retail outlets, and offices. However, with this influx in foot traffic, you can expect an increase in your cooling costs. Your HVAC will be working overtime to cool your large space, and that can lead to premature breakdowns if you’re not careful. 

 

MaintenX cares about your HVAC health and recommends you follow these guidelines to keep your system in peak performance. 

 

Schedule a tune-up

A tuneup is your best defense against unwanted HVAC problems in the summer. By checking your unit for minor issues and repairs, you can prevent major issues when your HVAC is working overtime. A tune-up can also help you increase your units’ performance which will help you keep up with summer demands. 

 

Clean out your air ducts and filters

One of the primary culprits of inefficient HVAC units is the air duct system. If not cleaned regularly, they can become clogged with dirt and debris and provide less cool air to your facility. This can also reduce indoor air quality which impacts the overall health of your workplace. Talk to your MaintenX technician about a cleaning schedule that is appropriate for your unit. 

 

Use fans to keep it cool 

It can be very tempting to turn the thermostat down lower and lower in an attempt to keep things cooler. However, this will lead to problems with the HVAC later on, as it will be overworked and will start to need regular repairs. Instead, utilize the fans in your office space to keep air flowing. This will help it feel cooler and also improve overall air quality. 

 

Install window treatments

You may enjoy the beautiful summer sunshine, but keeping the blinds closed will help to reduce the temperature inside the office. This can be done in rooms where natural light is not necessary. If you love natural light, try energy-efficient windows instead. These can reduce heat without sacrificing the sunshine. 

 

If you are still having issues with your HVAC system after following these steps, call your MaintenX technician for help. Your system may have a more serious problem that needs professional diagnosis and reactive maintenance care. 

 

To learn more about general HVAC maintenance and preventative care steps, contact your local MaintenX today!

Safe Practices for Summer Outdoor Maintenance Work

Summertime is one of the busiest times for maintenance workers. With HVAC systems overworked and outdoor spaces needing additional care, we are often booked to the maximum every day. However, this can pose several risks for the maintenance team on your job site. We ask that all clients help us promote a safe and productive work environment by following these general guidelines for maintenance work during the summer:

 

Begin early and take breaks often

The morning is the best time to complete outdoor maintenance work in the summer. The day will not be at its hottest until late afternoon, and plenty of work can be done in the first few hours of the day to prevent overexertion in the heat. By starting early (as early as you are allowed on your property), your maintenance team will have to take fewer breaks in the summer heat. It is important, however, to allow for breaks as the afternoon rolls on to ensure a safe work environment. 

 

Prioritize hydration

One of the most common causes of fatigue, passing out, and other heat-related work incidents are dehydration. If a work crew is not given enough breaks for water and food, they will work less effectively and may even hurt themselves in the process. This is especially dangerous for roofing or HVAC repair services where the tasks must be done in dangerous locations. Always give your maintenance team time for water breaks and a lunch break for their safety.  

 

Provide sunscreen

Many of us skip sunscreen unless we’re planning a day at the beach, but it should be worn at all times when working in the sun. This not only protects workers from the dangers of skin diseases and cancers but will allow them to work longer in the heat. A sunburn is a serious issue and can limit the number of hours your maintenance team can work. If handy, offer them sunscreen every few hours to ensure your team is well taken care of. 

 

Look out for signs of heatstroke

Though rare, heatstroke can happen to workers who have been in the sun for too long. Typically, heatstroke symptoms will show early before the individual passes out. They may include nausea, slurred speech, irritability, flushed skin, rapid heart rate, and heavy breathing. If a maintenance technician reports any of these signs in themselves or another worker, take action immediately. 

 

By following these simple steps you can help your maintenance team work more efficiently. MaintenX always follows these procedures, and we always appreciate it when our clients do the same. For more workplace safety tips, visit our resource center. 

How To Manage Summer Landscaping At Your Facility

Summer is finally here, which means two important things for your facility — your A/C bill is about to go up and your landscaping is about to get out of control! With increasing temperatures and summer showers, it can be difficult to manage your facility’s landscaping schedule. Luckily, MaintenX has some tips that can get you through any summer season.

 

Tip #1 – Give your grass some extra TLC

Grass often struggles in the summer with extended periods of heat and sporadic rains. If not maintained, it will die in the summer and that can be a headache (not to mention very costly) to fix. Start your summer landscaping off right by purchasing fertilizer for your plants and installing a sprinkler system if you don’t already have one. This will help keep grass healthy in the summer and reduce the demand on your landscaping staff. 

 

Tip #2 – Start Planting Perennials

Summer is a great time to revamp your flower beds or other decorative landscaping, especially at the front entrance of your building. If you notice some of your flowers aren’t blooming like they should, take this time to plant new ones that are drought-resistant and survive the upcoming autumn. 

 

Tip #3 – Prioritize pest control

During the summer months, you may see more mosquitoes and other pests present at your facility. Some may even try to find their way indoors to escape the summer heat, which is why proper pest control is crucial during this season. Talk to your local pest control company about outdoor solutions for mosquitoes and indoor solutions for ants, roaches, mice, rats, and more. 

 

Tip #4 – Spruce up your outdoor hardscape

Many of us spend more time outside during the summer, so it’s important to keep your outdoor storefront looking presentable to customers. Schedule preventative maintenance and cleaning services for outdoor areas including your outdoor showroom, rooftop, and any area visible from the road. This will make your facility look more inviting to passers-by and create the first impression you want. 

 

Tip #5 – Communicate with your maintenance team

Summer is typically the busiest time for the MaintenX crew. We see an influx of HVAC and exterior maintenance service calls, which means our team is on a very tight schedule most days. Keep this in mind when scheduling preventative maintenance services, and be proactive in working with your maintenance team to achieve summer goals. A little bit of communication goes a long way and can help us make your life easier too. 

 

MaintenX is happy to serve commercial clients across the U.S. with HVAC, plumbing, roofing, electrical, and general contractor services including exterior maintenance. To learn more about our landscaping and exterior maintenance services, contact our offices today!

Is Facility Maintenance The Right Career For Me?

Facility maintenance jobs can be incredibly rewarding for the right person. They are hands-on, meaningful to the community, and pay very well in comparison to the cost of education. However, becoming an HVAC technician, electrician, plumber, or other maintenance worker is not right for everyone. It requires several years of training and should not be chosen as a line of work unless you are confident you’re up to the task. 

 

If you’re interested in joining the facility maintenance field, ask yourself these questions to determine whether you’re right for the job:

 

Do you like working outside? 

Even though you’ll be working on buildings, quite a bit of maintenance work happens outside. HVAC technicians, plumbers, roofers, and electricians all have job duties that require work outside, sometimes in tight spaces or on the ground, These jobs can get dirty, too, so if you’re not used to hard labor in the sun, you may want to consider whether you’ll be capable of working in these conditions daily. 

 

Is your schedule flexible?

When a pipe bursts in a home or the power goes out, most people can’t wait until the next business day for service. This means that many facility maintenance jobs require on-call time and overtime in order to provide 24-hour service. While this will inevitably add to your paycheck, it can be taxing on those who prefer a 9 to 5 job. Be aware and willing of this job requirement before applying for trade school. 

 

Are you willing to invest in your education?

Most facility maintenance fields will require a two-year technical school degree or the completion of an apprenticeship before you can begin your work as a journeyman. While technical school is much less expensive than a four-year college, it will still take time and patience before you can begin earning as a maintenance technician. 

 

Are you looking for a challenge?

Maintenance work is very different from modern desk jobs. You’ll always be on the move when you’re at work — there is little time to sit back and relax as a maintenance tech. You’ll also be working physically most of the time, which can wear on the body the longer you’re in the field. While this job can be very satisfying for diligent hard workers, it is not the path for everyone. You have to really want success to achieve it in the maintenance field. 

 

MaintenX is always in search of qualified maintenance technicians at our locations across the U.S. Once you’ve completed your training, give us a call to learn about the opportunities in commercial maintenance and how to get started with us!

How To Become an HVAC Technician

HVAC technicians may seem just like regular people, but if you’ve ever had the air conditioning go out on a hot summer’s day, you know them as heroes. The work of an HVAC technician is difficult, but incredibly rewarding when you see the happy faces of the family or business you serve. If you’re interested in joining this field, there are some aspects of the job you should know beforehand. 

 

Job Duties and Salary of an HVAC Technician

HVAC technicians are responsible for installing, repairing, cleaning, and maintaining the entire HVAC system. This includes any air conditioning or heating component in a facility such as the air ducts, outdoor units, vents, and other features of the system. Some of the tasks you’ll do on the job include: 

 

  • Replacing old HVAC systems and installing new ones
  • Scheduling and performing maintenance
  • Cleaning ducts and outdoor units
  • Ensuring buildings meet local HVAC codes
  • Communicating with clients

 

HVAC technician work is not easy. Oftentimes you’ll be called to fix broken units in the middle of summer or winter when the systems are most often overworked. This means you’ll be working in cramped spaces either in the biting cold or sweltering heat. However, the salary often compensates for this. HVAC technicians can make anywhere between $50K and $60K at upper levels, and will often receive overtime when specializing in commercial work. 

 

How To Become an HVAC Technician

HVAC technicians typically start their careers with technical school training or an apprenticeship similar to other vocational training. However, this is not necessary to become a certified technician. If you have worked in the family business or have received an entry-level position at a company, you can learn on the job and take your certification tests just like a technical school graduate. To practice with a license, however, you will need to be certified in your state. 

 

HVAC technician work is incredibly rewarding, and MaintenX offers both a competitive salary and numerous on-the-job benefits. We value our technicians and make sure they always have a reason to come to work tomorrow. If you’re interested in starting your career with MaintenX contact us today or visit our careers page for more information. 

How To Become an Electrician

The work of an electrician often goes unnoticed in modern media and culture. While this job may not be as glamorous as others, it is one of the most important in the trade fields. Electricians keep the light on during inconvenient, frustrating, and even dangerous situations. It is a highly rewarding career where you can make a difference in the lives of families and businesses in your community. 

 

Job Duties and Salary of an Electrician

Electricians are responsible for a building’s entire electrical system. From the wiring inside the walls to the electrical appliances, they handle repairs and installations for the entire system. Some of the common job duties for electricians include: 

 

  • Use blueprints to install electrical systems
  • Inspect electrical circuits and breakers 
  • Test for and diagnose electrical issues
  • Understand and adhere to building regulations
  • Test computer or other electrical systems for performance issues

 

Electrical work is often considered to be hazardous, but a trained electrician can avoid almost all dangers. Plus, they are compensated heavily for the risk. With a two-year degree, electricians can make upwards of $50K – $60K per year, especially if they work for an emergency maintenance service where overtime is available. 

 

How To Become an Electrician

Like most maintenance and mechanic jobs, you’ll need to attend a technical school to receive proper training for electrical work. Sometimes you can skip this step if you have been working in the electrical field with a family business, but it is best to invest in a proper education before beginning on-the-job training. 

 

Electricians must also complete an apprenticeship before they can begin practicing under a license. Typically, your technical school will set you up with an apprenticeship in the last leg of your school training. If not, you can find apprenticeships through the union or through local companies. This important step will help you gain the hands-on experience and skills needed to excel. 

 

MaintenX is proud to be a top workplace for electricians throughout the country. We would be happy to jumpstart your career in this field! To learn more about our job opportunities for new and experienced electricians, visit our careers page. 

How To Become a Plumber

The life of a plumber may not seem glamorous, but at MaintenX we consider them to be heroes. When our clients have a plumbing disaster that’s preventing them from keeping their doors open, our plumbing team is onsite and ready to serve. That is why we are always excited when someone expresses an interest in this field. However, if you’re interested in becoming a plumber, there are a few things you should know before you begin your education. 

 

Job Duties and Salary of a Plumber

Plumbers are responsible for installing and repairing anything having to do with the plumbing system of a home or commercial facility. This includes not only the pipes and visible components (such as faucets and sinks), but any electrical or mechanical component connecting them. From the drain to the city line, plumbers handle it all. Some of the everyday job duties include: 

 

  • Preparing the layout of a new construction plumbing system
  • Measuring, marking, cutting, and bending pipes
  • Install pipes, valves, fittings, and appliances
  • Installing and repairing water heaters, toilets, sinks, and other appliances connected to the plumbing system
  • Backflow testing 
  • Welding 

 

Plumbing is often considered a “dirty job,” since you’ll be climbing under houses and dealing with water and sewage supplies. That is why it pays upward of $60K per year on average. Most licensed and insured plumbers can start making $30K – $40K and work their way up.

 

How to Become a Plumber

Most plumbers start their training in a technical school. You need to be licensed and insured to practice legally, so getting your certification from an accredited technical school is a must. Most plumbers also complete an apprenticeship, which requires hands-on experience with a company before you can work for yourself or be hired by a company. 

 

Luckily, most technical schools will help you start your apprenticeship before you even graduate so you can get on-the-job experience right away. This will help you learn as you go and be prepared for the demands of the work. Whether you want to specialize in home or commercial work, this time is critical in your education and professional development. 

 

Once you have completed your degree and apprenticeship, you can get licensed in your state and begin working! Once you reach this stage, contact your local MaintenX to find job openings for entry-level plumbing positions. We offer incredible benefits, a competitive salary, and one of the best work environments you’ll find in the industry. 

 

Get your plumbing career off the ground with MaintenX! You can contact us or visit our careers page for more information. 

Four Ways You Can Transform Your Building With Green Technology

As the eco-movement grows each year, many people are looking for ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle in their everyday lives. However, more and more of the environmental activism movement is focusing on the part businesses and commercial buildings play in carbon emissions. Research estimates that energy emissions from commercial buildings account for approximately 19% of total U.S. emissions each year. This shows just how important it is for businesses to step up and start thinking green in their everyday practices. 

 

In many cases, it is better to retrofit existing buildings with green technologies rather than building new ones. Below are some examples of ways you can use green technologies in your facility to create a healthier, more eco-friendly workplace:

 

Reduce, reuse, and recycle

This old adage is one of the most useful when it comes to reducing your overall energy emissions. Even with renewable energy technologies and energy-efficient appliances, typically buying a new product has a higher carbon footprint than repurposing an old one. That is why proper preventative care for your facility systems is important. By extending the service life of your HVAC and electrical systems, you can reduce the waste created by your facility. 

 

Invest in renewables

Many companies are looking at renewable energy sources to replace their existing energy sources. Whether you install solar panels or look for a supplier that uses wind, geothermal, or other renewable energy sources, this is a great way to dramatically impact your company’s carbon footprint. Even giants like Empire State Realty are making the switch, and so can you!

 

Use carbon-negative materials for new construction. 

While it’s best to retrofit existing structures to meet commercial building needs, carbon-negative building materials serve as an ideal alternative. Certain types of wood as well as hempwood and other green building materials can actually absorb small amounts of carbon in the atmosphere. This small act can make a big difference as more companies adopt carbon-negative building materials. 

 

Always choose energy-efficient.

Energy efficiency is an option for nearly every appliance and electrical system in your facility. From automatic lights to energy-efficient windows, roofing, and plumbing, you can find cleaner alternatives when the time comes. While we don’t recommend upgrading all at once (following the first tip in this list), when your current equipment reaches the end of its service life you should always look for energy-efficient models. 

 

Green technologies are available for almost every commercial application. Research local alternatives for energy and suppliers, or ask your MaintenX team for recommendations. We are always happy to help our clients make informed and greener choices for their HVAC roofing, plumbing, and more. 

Fire, Storm, and Other Natural Disaster Preparedness Tips for Commercial Buildings

What should facility managers aim for when it comes to disaster response and preparedness? Should they look for ways to disaster-proof their facility? Or should they simply look for the best company to clean up the damage in the event of a hurricane or fire? At MaintenX, we believe that there is one simple key to your facility weathering any storm: resilience.

 

A resilient facility is not one that simply folds under pressure and waits for the clean-up crew. Instead, it is able to prevent damage and cope with it when it happens. Below are some tips to make your facility more resilient to fires, storms, and other natural disasters: 

 

Update your plan annually.

A disaster emergency plan doesn’t do your facility any good if it is not up to date. Review your plan at least once a year to ensure that your insurance coverages are up-to-date, your contacts are accurate, and that any action plans you have still meet the needs of your facility. This is especially important if you add new equipment, staff, or change anything to your regular maintenance schedule throughout the year. 

 

Plan for disruptions in the supply chain.

If the COVID-19 pandemic has taught business owners anything, it’s that you can’t just worry about disasters that affect your community directly. Many businesses have been adversely affected this year not because they couldn’t open safely, but because their suppliers or manufacturers in different parts of the country or even around the world couldn’t. Be prepared for this by having backup suppliers or routes in the event of a natural disaster such as a hurricane or local fire. 

 

Understand your risk factors. 

Each facility is built differently and will have unique risk factors in the event of a natural disaster. For example, if your building is older you may have to worry about roofing collapses or pipe bursts more so than a newer building. If you have had electrical problems in the past, you may be at a greater risk for power outages to last longer than expected. Talk with your maintenance team to learn the ins and outs of your facility so you know what to expect when disaster strikes. 

 

Have a communications plan.

If you live in a disaster-prone area (like along the coast of Florida, which faces an increasingly destructive annual hurricane season), you need a plan in place to communicate with staff before, during, and after the disaster. You’ll need to know how to communicate to everyone effectively if you plan closures or an evacuation, and will want to be able to get in touch with your MaintenX team when disaster repairs begin. This communication plan should be effective whether employees and your maintenance team are onsite or at home. 

 

Choose contractors ahead of time. 

After a natural disaster, there will be an influx of general repair and remodeling contractors into your area offering services for low prices. Many of these contractors will perform low-quality work or may even try to scam an unprepared business. Make sure this doesn’t happen by pre-selecting a local emergency maintenance company before a disaster ever hits. By building that relationship early on, you know you’ll be in good hands. 

 

MaintenX specializes in disaster response and emergency repairs for businesses across the U.S. We care about our customers and want to help them get back on their feet as soon as possible after a storm. To learn more about our emergency services or previous work with disaster response, contact us today.