Densely populated cities like Toronto present logistical and regulatory hurdles during the building restoration process. Here we look at common challenges and share solutions to keep your restoration projects on time and on budget.
Complex building structure impacting regulations
Often older urban buildings undergo sporadic changes made to different areas of the building at different stages of the building’s life cycle. When this happens, project managers can run into inherent issues related to changing regulations, acceptable material use and even changes to best practices in installation in different areas of the building.
Referring to records of past restoration projects will provide the blueprint to identify problematic materials and building practices prior to the restoration. By identifying underlying issues or use of unacceptable materials in advance, your restoration company will understand how to address these issues in the safest, most cost-effective manner.
Minimum access means maximum costs
Urban centres optimize small footprints, building upwards as opposed to outwards. As a result, equipment maneuverability can pose a serious challenge in the restoration process.
The tighter the space and the higher the building, the more difficult it is for equipment access and the more costly restoration becomes. In densely populated areas it is difficult to bring in standard equipment as there is little space between the street, sidewalk, and building.
To overcome these challenges, it’s important for restoration companies to use proper, high-reach equipment. When the proper equipment such as swing stages, climbers, and hoists are introduced, it helps counter increased costs by improving efficiency.
Safety for high-rise buildings
Towering buildings in urban areas increase worker and pedestrian safety concerns. Risks include increased impact of materials falling from higher heights that cause far more serious property damage and personal injuries.
Working with a restoration company that is COR® certified ensures the highest standards for workplace health and safety management systems are met. Site Managers and Safety Coordinators focused on possible safety hazards will reduce the risks related to high-rise buildings. This includes initial assessments and feasibility studies used to build a sound foundation for project success.
Risk assessment not only prior to but also during restoration continuously predicts potential damage and injury. Through ongoing management, you reduce project delays, administrative costs and downtime related to equipment damage or worker injury.
Environmental factors
Environmental factors continue to impact restoration efforts in urban centres. Implementing sustainable best practices and materials will ensure urban projects reduce the impact of construction on the environment, including:
- Preserving or introducing green spaces to improve air quality, improve resident quality of life, reduce heat island effects, and help support biodiversity.
- Promoting energy efficiency to reduce carbon emissions and energy consumption of renovated buildings.
- Effective waste management including recycling or reusing materials whenever possible to reduce waste materials related to construction.
- Sustainable transportation using locally sourced materials to help reduce carbon emissions.
Although urban restoration projects present unique challenges, comprehensive planning by an experienced restoration company will ensure issues are avoided.
At WellDone Inc., we are a COR® certified building restoration company specializing in urban restorations for commercial and multi-unit residential buildings throughout the GTA. We are committed to maintaining the highest safety standards to control safety-related costs. For more information, speak to our team today.