Even though the benefits of retrofitting a building with greener technology are many, most building managers and owners will have some concerns about the difficulty involved in such projects. Particularly in cases where the aesthetics of the building need to be preserved but where the energy efficiency levels of a building need to be increased, it may seem like a daunting task to actually have this type of work done. In fact, it can be done and, with the right skills and materials, it does not have to be a particularly difficult undertaking.

Analysis

Changing lighting and shades to better versions starts with a preconstruction product analysis. The idea is to get an idea of which elements of the building’s interior can be replaced with better options and what will be involved in doing so. Starting the project out will also take into account any architectural concerns that need to be addressed before the improvements are made. With a good contractor, it’s possible to make certain that all of these concerns are taken care of properly and that building owners do not need to worry that they are getting into uncharted waters when the improvements are undertaken.

Mock Ups

Mockups can provide great insight into what the effects on a building’s interior will be if the lighting and shades are improved. Sometimes, it’s much easier to look at a mockup and to use the small-scale representation as a way to understand what the end results will be than it is to look at drawings and images. This also makes it possible for the building owner to verify that they are happy with the options that they chose and to have an opportunity to change anything that they may want to do differently.

Budget

No one has an unlimited budget and a good contractor will be aware of this. To make certain that any work completed is within a budget, having detailed specifications for the scope of work, the equipment and so forth is necessary. This also plays a role in project management, allowing the contractor to make certain that everything is completed on time and within the budget set for the project.

When budgeting, it’s also useful to have a contractor who is knowledgeable enough about sustainable products to give good information on the many options available. With a solid knowledge of the products on the market, a contractor can make certain that their client is aware of all of the different options that they have and how they may impact the project they have in mind positively or negatively. Not every product will be appropriate for every job, of course, and it’s important to have a contractor who understands the difference.

Moving Forward

Installing new lighting and shades is sometimes a rather involved undertaking, and it’s important to make certain that all of the work put into it pays off over the long haul. To that end, the Specialty Group can assist with the best product and warranties with manufacturers of the equipment installed and make certain that building owners have access to maintenance contracts that ensure that those products remain functional for the longest time possible.

The Specialty Group can handle every aspect of lighting and shading improvements, from the initial consultation to the installation to the maintenance and support involved. With these services, building owners that take the initiative to make their building greener and more energy efficient can be certain that they actually are making an investment that will pay off in terms of their pocketbook and in terms of helping to make the world a better place.