Managing school buildings in Ohio comes with its fair share of challenges, and keeping roofs and building envelopes in good shape is definitely one of them. The good news? Taking a proactive approach to managing these assets can save time, money, and headaches down the line.
Why Wait for Problems?
Picture this: a roof starts leaking, and by the time you figure out what’s wrong, the warranty has expired, and your only option is a full (and expensive) replacement. Sound familiar? Letting roofs "run to failure" is costly and disruptive—but avoidable. A better approach is to actively manage your assets, starting with a simple evaluation process:
- Green (Maintain): These areas are in good shape and just need regular upkeep.
- Amber (Restore): Some wear and tear here, but restoration can bring them back to life.
- Red (Replace): Unfortunately, these areas are beyond saving and need replacement.
This triage system gives you a clear picture of where things stand and helps you create a smart, long-term plan that could span 10 to 20 years or more. And it’s not just for roofs—you can use the same approach for walls, windows, doors, and other parts of the building envelope.
Stay Ahead of the Game
Being proactive means more than just fixing things when they break. It’s about regular inspections, maintenance, and tackling restoration projects early, before replacement is your only option. Here’s why that’s a big win:
- Save Money: Restorations cost a lot less than replacements.
- Avoid Hassles: Restoration projects are quicker and less disruptive.
- Be Green: You’ll produce less waste and reduce environmental impact.
What’s New in Restoration?
If you haven’t explored modern restoration systems, you’re in for a surprise. Low-odor, fluid-applied roof systems are designed to be restored again and again, potentially extending a roof’s life by 20 years or more each time. Instead of planning for a replacement, you can plan for restorations that keep your roofs performing like new—and keep your budget on track.
The Dollars and Sense of It All
Let’s break it down with an example. Say your district has 15 buildings with a total of one million square feet of roofing. If 40% of that space (400,000 square feet) is suitable for restoration, and restoration saves about $15 per square foot compared to replacement, you’re looking at $6 million in savings. That’s money that could go toward classrooms, technology, or other priorities.
And it’s not just about the budget. Restoration projects are far less intrusive. No worrying about storm damage during a roof replacement or dealing with asbestos removal. Restoring a roof is smoother for everyone involved—staff, students, and administrators alike.
Thinking Bigger: The Whole Building Envelope
While roofs often get the most attention, don’t forget about the rest of the building. Managing your entire building envelope—walls, windows, doors, foundations, and air barriers—can lead to even greater savings and efficiency. Here’s why it matters:
- Walls: Keep water out and protect structural integrity.
- Windows and Doors: Boost energy efficiency and comfort.
- Foundations: Maintain stability and prevent costly repairs.
- Air Barriers and HVAC Systems: Improve thermal performance and lower energy bills.
A holistic approach ensures all parts of your building work together seamlessly, saving you time, money, and effort.
The Bottom Line
For school facility managers in Ohio, proactive asset management isn’t just a good idea—it’s the key to keeping your buildings running smoothly and your budgets predictable. Start with your roofs, and then expand to other parts of the building envelope. With the right plan in place, you’ll be set up for long-term success, leaving you free to focus on what really matters: creating the best environment for students to learn and thrive.
About the Author
Kevin Butler is a Senior Field Advisor with Tremco Roofing and Building Maintenance.