Importance of Consistent Maintenance Records Facility managers know of the importance of record keeping for maintenance, repairs, and inspections of equipment within commercial facilities. We have all heard the benefits of maintaining equipment so that it does not cost more later in down time and preventable repairs. There are many additional reasons to keep accurate […]
Concrete is care free and maintenance free, correct? Well, not exactly. In most cases concrete is a durable, long-lasting product without much maintenance. Properly maintaining concrete, however, can greatly extend the life and the beauty of the concrete. Plain concrete can look clean and bright and decorative concrete can look the same after years of […]
Ways to increase MPGElectric vehicles are obviously more fuel-efficient than gasoline and diesel powered vehicles. But for those who have fleets of gas or diesel vehicles, changing isn’t an option anytime in the near future. How do you save money in the meantime with fuel prices skyrocketing? Here are a few tips. Some you may have […]
Strong Facility Managers Whether you are trying to hire one or be one, it takes certain characteristics to be a strong, competent facility manager. Many people who are not happy with their job say that it is either due to those working around them or their manager. Here are some guidelines of what it takes […]
Graffiti If you are in maintenance, chances are you have had to deal with graffiti in some form or another. It has plagued shopping malls, commercial businesses, factories, highway signs, concrete walls and overpasses. At the national level it is estimated to cost $12 billion annually to clean it up, and while cost may not […]
Locker Room Cleanliness Locker rooms in fitness centers, hotel gyms and spas can be a place where harmful germs, viruses and parasites love to fester and hide. With more people using these facilities at this time of the year, it is important to properly maintain them. Unclean surfaces can spread bacteria, fungal infections, plantar warts, […]
Mold and Mildew – What’s the difference? Mildew is a type of mold, which means they share a lot of similarities. Without a doubt, mold is worse than mildew as it burrows into surfaces while mildew grows on the surface. Both mold and mildew species can release toxins into the air which can trigger an immune […]
Finding maintenance techs in todays job market There are many challenges to finding the right maintenance technicians and managers at any given time and recent times have made it even more difficult. New projects added onto old requirements, seemingly fewer applicants to choose from, and trying to find people with the correct skill set, mindset, […]
To Delay or not Delay Maintenance.(That should not be the question.) We have all been there. Procrastination. Whether the cause is insufficient funding, not enough staff, or other reasons. We have all posed the questions “What’s the harm in waiting another hour or day? What’s one more month really going to do?” Before you know it, a […]
As humans our sense of smell is powerful enough to create emotions, perceptions, and even memories. Scents, both pleasant and unpleasant, can evoke a strong response and can remind us of places we’ve been and experiences we had there. When we visit public buildings like office buildings, hotels, gyms, restaurants, airports, and theaters — unpleasant […]
Why are there so many different cleaning agentsand how do I choose the right one? There are many types of cleaning agents to help you with the job at hand. How do you choose the right one so that the job is easier and done right the first time? By understanding the different types of […]
Staffing Levels by the NumbersHow to reasonably assess maintenance staffing is an often-posed question among fleet managers and facility maintenance managers. Many organizations do not determine how many techs are required to maintain their fleet or facilities. Many report that staffing levels at their shop have been the same for years and no one knows […]
Aren’t Grease and Lubricant the same? Many people think that lubricants and grease are same. Both aim to lubricate equipment and prevent damage through metal-to-metal contact. The biggest difference setting grease apart from oil is its thickener. Grease is oil that contains a thickener, not just a thicker oil. Grease consists of two main components, a […]
What is UVC light? The brief answer is that it is another tool in our arsenal against Covid-19 and other germs and viruses that can make us sick. The science lesson answer is: Ultraviolet (UV) light is a component of the electromagnetic spectrum in the area between visible light and X-Rays. The sun emits UVA, […]
Urinals: They can cause such a stink! Let’s face it, no one hears the word urinal and thinks pleasant thoughts. The first word that usually comes to mind is stinky. There are about 8 million urinals in the US alone and about 100 million people use those urinals. No matter which type of urinals your facility […]
Since we went over hard floor care last time,I figured we should give a shout out to carpet too. Carpets are a great addition to many buildings as they provide warmth and interest. Large venues such as casinos and convention centers benefit from carpet’s ability to muffle sound and its relatively affordable cost. It is […]
One of the first things someone sees when entering your facility are your floors, which can help shape their perceptions of how clean the entire building is. Hard flooring that looks dirty, scuffed or dull can give the impression that the facility’s cleanliness standards are lacking. By developing a maintenance program which includes cleaning and polishing […]
What would I use it for after COVID?The right electrostatic sprayer can be used with a multitude of products. Using deodorizers, and sanitizing against viruses such as Flu or MRSA should be a year-round habit. What are the benefits of electrostatic technology?*Electrostatic sprayers apply a positive charge to disinfectants and other liquids as they pass through the nozzle. The positively […]
Last time we went over penetrating oils that are used to free frozen nuts, bolts, locks, and other metal items that usually contain rust and corrosion.This time we will get a little more into lubricants that are used to protect metal parts and keep them from becoming stuck in the first place. What are lubricants?A lubricant […]
Penetrants vs. Lubricants (Part 1) Penetrating oils are used to free frozen nuts, bolts, locks, and other metal items that usually contain rust and corrosion. Lubricating oils are used to protect metal parts and keep them from becoming stuck in the first place. They are also used to quiet squeaks, noises and friction that come from metal parts rubbing together.Today […]
Winterize Your Vehicles and Equipment (another handy checklist) Last time we went over ways to prep your commercial property for winter. It is just as important to prep and take care of your vehicles and snow removal equipment to keep them in top shape so they perform well and won’t leave you out in the cold. Wash […]
Winter-proof your commercial property PlumbingDon’t wait until a costly leak or burst pipe rears its head. Building’s pipes may burst with freezing temperatures. Ensure that your plumbing system is well insulated. Check the irrigation system, exterior faucets, and drain hoses. Insulate and seal cracks and openings around exposed pipes. Heating systemsMake sure you are getting […]
An inviting and appealing entrance area is important for commercial buildings of all types, apartment complexes and residential facilities. Some simple changes like unique pathways, different textures and colors, and seating areas can help draw customers into your facility. Creating Inviting Outdoor Areas:without breaking your back or your bank account Adding colorful plants to complement […]
Put bacteria to work for you removing odors and build-ups Bacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that thrive in diverse environments. They can be used in food processing, biotechnology, medicines, cleaners and so much more. Bacteria for cleaning and odor control are incredibly helpful for those who maintain buildings and other facilities on a daily basis. […]
Not taking hard water seriously can create more work for you in the long run. Water that contains a high amount of minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc and other dissolved minerals is referred to as hard water. These naturally occurring minerals are absorbed by the water on its journey to your tap. The […]