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One of the most common projects for schools and facilities are restroom renovations and upgrades. These are typically done to meet compliance and accessibility standards but also to save on long-term operational and maintenance costs. (2) If done right, renovating restrooms can help save money by implementing accessories that minimize the overuse of supplies such as paper, soap, and water. Other savings can come from upgrading surface materials that are easier and more efficient to clean, therefore saving time and money for custodial services.
In order for your renovations to be cost-effective, proper planning and design must be administered. This process requires an understanding of common issues that can come up when completing the project and taking the necessary steps to maximize benefits while avoiding problems. (2)
"Designing restrooms that are convenient and cost-effective to operate means giving attention to maintenance costs, circulation patterns, and the intended users." (2) Following basic facility design principals is key to a successful renovation. This means thinking about durability and maintenance when selecting materials.
Finishes used in a restroom play a major role in determining maintenance costs. "Make sure that any of the finishes you are incorporating are easily maintainable". (2) This doesn't mean that you have to buy the most expensive material either, it simply means to weigh the pros and cons of the material.
A very expensive material might look amazing but may need extra care or special cleaning supplies, however, it may last a long time. On the other hand, a less expensive material might be very easy to clean but may not withstand frequent use or abuse in a school.
Four Common Mistakes When Renovating Restrooms
Determine the Benefits of Restroom Renovations to Assist with Planning
When planning for restroom renovations, you should determine if a restroom is accessible and meets ADA-compliance standards. The easiest way, and least expensive, is to review the American with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG) and the American National Standards Institute's standard (ICC/ANSI A117.1). Then grab your tape measure and conduct a walkthrough to evaluate any changes that might need to be made.
This article, "The ADA-Compliant Restroom" from Buildings.com gives a very thorough overview of what to measure and what dimensions you need to achieve ADA-compliance.
On our website, we've made ordering partitions easy. You can choose from ordering common full partition layouts, replacement pieces such as door, panels, or pilasters, or if you need a custom layout, send us your sketch and we'll send you a quote. To make custom ordering simple, just use our Toilet Partition Quote form which you can add your sketch too, plus get quotes of your layout in multiple materials and mounting styles. We also carry replacement toilet partition hardware, restroom accessories, and restroom signs for a complete restroom renovation or upgrade.
We hope that you found this guide helpful. To learn more about solutions to common school maintenance concerns, please visit the School Fix® Blog.
References
1. Buildings.com. "The ADA-Compliant Restroom". 30 May 2018. Buildings.com Blog. Retrieved 27 April 2020. https://www.buildings.com/article-details/articleid/9242/title/the-ada-compliant-restroom
2. Lorenz, Brandon. "Restrooms - Operational Costs Factor into Restroom Design". Facilitiesnet.com Blog. Retrieved 27 April 2020. https://www.facilitiesnet.com/plumbingrestrooms/article/Restrooms--3096
3. Westerkamp, Thomas A. "Restroom Renovations, Big Benefits". Facilitiesnet.com Blog. Retrieved 27 April 2020. https://www.facilitiesnet.com/plumbingrestrooms/article/Restroom-Renovations-Big-Benefits--2782
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