Typically, when a business owner is considering ground-up construction or commercial renovation of an existing building, it’s because of two reasons.
- Your business has outgrown your current location.
- You looking for a second location
Either scenario, the decision becomes commercial renovation vs. ground up construction. To help you decide, here are a few points of interest to determine whether ground up construction better than renovating an existing building?
When You Need Design Freedom
Do you want the freedom to create a specific look to appeal to your clientele? Is a floor plan that supports the safe, efficient use of machinery a necessity? With retrofitting, the need to work within the existing framework can limit your options. Starting fresh with ground up building generally offers a wider range of possibilities. After all, it’s easier to design a space that meets your needs when you’re starting with a blank slate.
When Regulatory Compliance Is a Must
Remodeling can trigger new requirements for ADA compliance. Those requirements can impact areas outside the ones being remodeled, expanding the project’s scope and adding to its cost. In addition, many companies have industry-specific regulations to contend with. It may be possible to comply with the various regulations governing your commercial space with renovations. It’s often easier to do with new construction vs. renovation.
When You Want System Upgrades and Energy-efficient Features
Much like new smartphones, tablets and laptops offer new and improved features, new commercial construction presents an opportunity to upgrade mechanical systems and incorporate energy-efficient features. These upgrades are often impractical for older buildings, but they’re a natural fit for a newly built facility. Their use can lead to perks like lower energy bills and decreased maintenance.
When Hazardous Materials Are a Concern
An older building can harbor some nasty surprises. Do you have reason to believe that lead paint, asbestos or other hazardous materials are lurking in your existing facility or the new building you want to buy? Addressing these issues can present logistical and financial headaches. If they are a concern, ground up construction may be the better option.
If you are purchasing a new building, please consider a site analysis. It’s always a good idea to eliminate surprises.
When Your Location Is No Longer Optimal
Is your current facility in an excellent location that offers plenty of business, perfect transportation and supply chain connections, and sufficient space? Retrofitting might be wise. Is the neighborhood less than ideal? Is space tight? Will your current location accommodate the growth of your business? If not, it may be better to start fresh with a new building in a new location.
If you are able to expand your space with commercial renovation services, check out this article: Staying Open for Business During a Commercial Renovation
When Your Budget Allows
In most cases, commercial building renovation services are considered more affordable than ground-up construction. If your budget is tight, renovating might be your best choice. This is especially true if you are able to proceed with the project in stages.
On the other hand, problems like compliance issues or the discovery of hazardous materials can send costs soaring. Ultimately, the difference in price between renovating an existing building and starting fresh may not be as great as you expect.
Don’t forget, ground up construction allows you to create a space tailored to your company’s needs. This can deliver savings over the long term.
CBF Contracting Inc. is a full-service commercial renovation contractor with more than three decades of experience in industrial and renovation services. Let us help you identify which of these two scenarios will work best for your company. Contact us today at 814-745-3000 to discuss your next commercial construction project.
