Archive for April, 2021

HIRING THE BEST GLASS AND GLAZING CONTRACTORS FOR COMMERCIAL PROJECTS

Tuesday, April 27th, 2021

Most modern commercial buildings have a vast amount of glass incorporated into their structure—a result of glazing contractors. Between storefronts, glass doors, skylights, and wall-to-ceiling windows, architects are designing glass features into many of their commercial projects. None of this is possible without the partnership of an experienced glazing contractor. They play an important role in the construction process by providing a facade enclosure that’s not only beautiful but protects the interior of the building from the elements. As one of the top glass/glazing contractors in Minnesota, Egan Company knows why choosing the best contractor is important in any commercial project. 

WHAT DO GLAZING CONTRACTORS DO?

Glazing contractors are trade professionals who are responsible for designing, fabricating  and installing glass and aluminum products on the interior or exterior of buildings. Additionally, these professionals are responsible to ensure a weather tight building that will last for many years. Experienced glazing contractors work with glass in a variety of different products, including:

  • Curtainwall
  • Windows
  • Displays
  • Storefronts
  • Doors
  • Skylights
  • Shower Doors
  • Mirrors
  • Glass Walls

As with any industry, the latest and greatest styles and designs are always evolving.  Currently, many architects seek to bring as much light as possible into their buildings with the help of glazing contractors, who have the expertise to install massive pieces of glass.

It’s also important to note that glazing contractors often specialize in niche building projects. For example, some glazing contractors will focus on security windows and room dividers in commercial buildings while others specialize in curtainwall and glass panels that are common in large-scale commercial properties. 

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO HIRE A GLAZING CONTRACTOR?

Proper glazing, as a result of working with a professional union contractor, provides many benefits to a building. First, it prevents water damage by stopping moisture from entering the inside of the building. This protection functions as an effective solution for buildings to avoid mold and water intrusion while providing a facade that’s both elegant and functional. An additional consideration involves ensuring your building, and it’s components, are structurally adequate. Whether you’re building a high rise in downtown Minneapolis, a hospital in Duluth, or a warehouse in the suburbs, Egan professionally engineers its systems to ensure they meet the stringent design loads and pressures that today’s buildings require.  

Second, the work of a glazing contractor can maximize the building’s energy efficiency. Glazing contractors can work with mechanical engineers to ensure the glass and glazing systems selected will work with the building mechanical system to provide the most energy efficient solution.  Glaziers can provide glass with various Low-E coatings, tints and different reflectivity to ensure proper building performance. These tints and coatings not only create a comfortable environment for the people inside, but they save property owners on the operating costs of cooling and heating the inside of the building. Glazing contractors can even provide glass with frit or film that adds another design element into the building and can help reduce the likelihood of birds flying into the glass.  

Partnering with  a professional glazing contractor like Egan for your glass and glazing needs will ensure your building not only performs well but looks beautiful. 

EXPERTS IN CURTAINWALL, GLASS, AND GLAZING

For over 20 years, InterClad, a business within Egan Company, has been the go-to source for general contractors and property owner’s needs when it comes to curtainwall, windows, and all around glass and glazing. We ensure every project we undertake is properly designed, engineered and, installed to exceed customer expectations. Contact Egan Company and learn more how our expert team can assist in your next project.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BUILDING COMMISSIONING AND RECOMMISSIONING?

Wednesday, April 21st, 2021

Simply put, recommissioning is the process of commissioning a building that has been previously commissioned. Now that you’re thoroughly confused, let’s break this down.

BUILDING COMMISSIONING

Commissioning is the process by which a building is approved to be ready for service. In order to meet this standard, buildings must withstand intense tests of design and functionality pertaining to the construction of the build. Building commissioning guarantees that the new construction operates as was intended. At this time, potential problems can be identified and corrected prior to a facility being put into service.

RECOMMISSIONING A BUILDING

Recommissioning seeks to better a building’s efficiency and performance. Unlike commissioning a building, recommissioning  occurs on a building that has already been commissioned. There are a number of reasons for a building to be commissioned once again, such as changing use of the building, new ownership, or to assess deeper operational problems. Since the occupancy and usage of many buildings has changed in the past year, now is a great time to recommission your building to serve your current needs. 

With a Plan-Design-Build-Maintain approach, Egan Company will work alongside commercial and industrial facility teams with both commissioning and recommissioning buildings. We understand the importance of your building functioning as it was designed. For us, this is an extension of our commitment to providing professional services of the highest quality and value.

Commissioning parts of your facility is not limited to any one industry, but rather, industries across the board. Egan Company is your resource from pre-planning through construction and commissioning. All systems installs are subject to inspection and our testing checklists were developed from several industry resources including ASHRAE, The State of Minnesota, OSHA, peers in the industry, and manufacturers for the specific equipment installed in the project.

WHY IS RPZ TESTING IMPORTANT FOR YOUR FACILITY?

Friday, April 16th, 2021

The importance of RPZ (reduced pressure zone) valve testing lies in the promise of a safe and clean water supply for your facility and those who reside within it.

WHAT DOES AN RPZ VALVE DO?

Plumbing systems are designed to maintain pressure in order to keep water flowing. If the pressure falls, backflow (water flowing in the wrong direction) can enter the system, introducing contaminants from appliances, industrial equipment, and even landscaping fertilizers to the water supply. Even the slightest drop in pipe pressure from a water leak or break can present a backflow concern. 

Here lies the importance of functioning RPZ valves. These valves play an integral role in protecting the water supply by maintaining a constant flow of safe water and ensuring groundwater doesn’t enter, even when pressure fluctuates. 

WHY IS RPZ TESTING NECESSARY?

Backflow testing ensures that valves are functioning correctly. Many states, including Minnesota, require RPZ testing and verification annually by a certified professional to protect not only the facility’s water, but the city’s water supply. 

Egan Company regularly performs RPZ testing to help you avoid serious backflow issues and manage the safety of your water supply. Our experienced team is RPZ-certified and can test and repair your plumbing system. From preventative maintenance and diagnosis to repairs and immediate support – Egan is ready 24/7.

WHAT IS A COMMERCIAL MECHANICAL CONTRACTOR?

Tuesday, April 6th, 2021

From new constructions to renovations and system upgrades – all of these job sites have one thing in common: a mechanical contractor. Without the expertise provided by the mechanical trade, buildings would lack many necessary attributes. Mechanical contractors are responsible for designing, constructing, and maintaining a variety of equipment and systems that provide functionality to a building. But, what exactly does a commercial mechanical contractor do and why should general contractors, building engineers, and facility managers look into hiring them? As one of the top commercial construction contractors in the Midwest, Egan Company has the solution for you.

Experience and Knowledge of Commercial Mechanical Contractors

When working with a mechanical contractor, you’re working with a team of qualified individuals. Tradesmen hold a variety of licensures and have extensive on-the-job experience, often obtained from completing an apprenticeship. Beyond this, the team includes a host of Project Managers and Engineers – many of whom hold bachelor’s degrees in construction management, mechanical engineering, architectural engineering, and other relevant fields.

What To Expect From a Mechanical Contractor

As aforementioned, a contractors role is to oversee projects. Understandably, mechanical contractors work on projects with any mechanical aspect. Companies hire mechanical contractors to take control of projects involving HVAC systems, refrigeration, piping, plumbing, and electrical systems. Furthermore, mechanical contractors often manage the ongoing maintenance and repair throughout a building’s life cycle. 

In many construction projects, the mechanical contractor is heavily involved in the coordination of all trades – they collaborate with everyone involved in the project. Additionally, they are mindful of the time and budget constraints associated with the construction of mechanical elements.

Why Should Commercial Properties Hire a Mechanical Contractor

Every business expects quality service at a fair price to maximize its ROI. By hiring a mechanical contractor, commercial properties are bringing on licensed and insured specialists to develop solutions for their projects. Contractors can help determine why systems aren’t functioning properly and promptly provide solutions to further performance and efficiency. 

Partner With Egan Company – Your Commercial and Industrial Mechanical Contractor

Since 1945, Egan Company has provided its customers with reliable, high-quality mechanical services. Committed to delivering services that prioritize safety, efficiency, and longevity, our mechanical team works to fulfill every building’s needs. In addition, Egan has the ability to provide other trades scopes of work to create a seamless “one contractor” package. Connect with us to learn how we can help you with your commercial construction, renovation, equipment upgrade, or maintenance project.

Whether you are looking for building automation experts or a commercial construction contractor, choose one of Egan’s comprehensive specialties or our whole Plan-Design-Build-Maintain offering and we’ll deliver an integrated and safe approach from start to finish.

See some of our mechanical construction projects here.