ADDING VALUE Here Connie Johnson, vice president of marketing at surface preparation expert


National Flooring Equipment, explains how technology can help improve a renovation project’s return on investment.


The primary reason for running a renovation project is usually to add value. Whether that’s by rectifying a problem, updating your offering or optimising the space, renovation can improve both the function and aesthetics of a business.


The starting point for a renovation project is to establish what the end goal is for the organisation. In most cases, the project is not just to replace the floor, but actually to meet a business objective. The objective could be something as critical as to bring in more customers or improve a building’s efficiency.


For example, in a café or restaurant, it is important to install flooring that feels and looks good under a customer’s feet, is easy to clean if a drink is spilt and is slip resistant for safety. In a casino, a busy carpet may encourage visitors to look up, resulting in an increase in spending – helping the business to increase its profits. A patterned carpet will also conceal any spills, making the carpet cheaper and easier to maintain.


A floorcovering can even impact the energy efficiency of a business. In large warehouses or supermarkets, a reflective polished concrete floor can cut energy bills. For a project to have any real return on investment (ROI), it must be clear what problem the renovation is trying to solve and what environment the business is trying to create.


Once the goals and objectives of the project are defined, there are several ways that a business can maximise the return on investment of their floor. The first stage is during the renovation itself.


ON THE JOB When renovating a business, it’s critical that the work does not disrupt day-to- day activities. Many companies remain open during renovation or refurbishments, which means business owners must be conscious of noise, dust and debris.The contractor


can choose a battery or electric powered machine, use dust collection equipment and regularly remove any debris or rubble to help keep the business in operation during the project.


Technology can help a contractor to perform the renovation more quickly. A commonly overlooked factor is ergonomics – the more comfortable the contractor is, the more quickly the job can be performed. For this reason, surface preparation equipment that can be adjusted can help improve the speed of renovation is ideal.


Versatile equipment on the job site will also improve ROI. For example, with the right tooling, National Flooring Equipment’s Helix grinder can grind, polish, edge grind and scarify a surface – offering four capabilities in one machine. Whether you own equipment or hire a contractor, the use of one machine can improve the speed and ease of which a renovation can be completed.


Advances in coating technology can impact the floor’s return on investment, both in terms of meeting a business objective and in the floor’s lifespan. Consider this example, your business is flooded your floor is mouldy and ruined. Do you want to lay the same covering again and risk a repeat occurrence? Of course not. The best option is to address the issue


underneath the floor by laying a moisture barrier and safeguarding the floor against future water damage.


Renovation return on investment is about more than the cost of the project. True ROI is achieved by a project that helps a company


to meet a business objective, either saving energy costs or increasing customer spend. Ensuring the floor will last the test of time so the business can continue to reap the rewards of the renovated floor is another important factor. Surface preparation is


critical for improving lifespan, keep this at the forefront of your mind when you next consider adding value to your business.


www.nationalequipment.com


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www.tomorrowscontractfloors.co.uk


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