The proper maintenance of a building is essential for ensuring its longevity and durability. Regular maintenance works must be carried out to keep the building in good condition. These works include occasional treatments such as whitewashing or painting at certain intervals. Major or minor treatments must also be carried out periodically to ensure the proper life of the building. The performance and services provided by the building are not only important at the early stages of its construction but also throughout its expected lifespan. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out essential maintenance to ensure the building’s continued functionality.
The proverb “Prevention is better than cure” holds true for building maintenance as well. In fact, it can be said that “Maintenance is better than cure”. By carrying out regular maintenance works, the need for major repairs or replacements can be avoided. Proper maintenance also ensures that the building remains safe for its occupants and visitors.
In summary, building maintenance is a crucial aspect of ensuring the longevity, safety, and functionality of a building. Regular maintenance works must be carried out, including occasional treatments and major or minor repairs. By prioritizing maintenance, the need for major repairs or replacements can be avoided, and the building can continue to provide the necessary services throughout its expected lifespan.
Types of Building Maintenance Works in Daily Routine
There are certain essential daily maintenance necessary, in order to avoid certain extreme problems in the facility. Some of them are explained below:
Cleaning walls and floors
To prevent the buildup of dirt and dust, it is important to regularly clean walls and floors. The frequency of cleaning may depend on the amount of dirt exposure in the area. It is recommended to clean on a daily basis if necessary. If the building has washable paints, cleaning with water is appropriate.
Proper cleaning of walls and floors is essential to maintain cleanliness and prevent the accumulation of dirt and dust. Depending on the level of dirt exposure, daily cleaning may be necessary to ensure optimal hygiene. For buildings with washable paints, water can be used as an effective cleaning solution. By adhering to these cleaning practices, a healthy and hygienic environment can be maintained.
Cleaning Glass panels and windows
To maintain the cleanliness of glass and wood surfaces for an extended period, it is possible to use specific cleaning solutions that do not compromise the quality of the wood. These solutions can be safely applied to both glass and wood surfaces without causing any damage to the wood. By using these specialized cleaning liquids, the glass and wood can be kept clean for a lifetime. This ensures that the surfaces remain free from any stains, dirt or grime, allowing them to retain their original beauty and shine. The use of these cleaning solutions also helps in prolonging the life of the wood, making it less susceptible to wear and tear. Therefore, it is advisable to use these cleaning liquids for glass and wood surfaces to keep them looking new and pristine.
Cleaning Wash areas and toilets
Water closets, also known as toilets, are an essential part of any building, whether it be a home, office, or public facility. These fixtures are crucial for maintaining proper hygiene and ensuring that the building is kept in good condition. In order to fulfill these functions, it is essential that water closets are cleaned regularly.
Hygiene is a top priority when it comes to maintaining water closets. These fixtures are used for the disposal of human waste, which can harbor harmful bacteria and viruses. Without regular cleaning, these microorganisms can accumulate and spread, leading to unpleasant odors, illness, and potential health hazards. Proper cleaning and disinfection can help prevent these issues and ensure that the water closet is a safe and healthy environment for its users.
In addition to hygiene concerns, regular cleaning is necessary for the proper maintenance of water closets. These fixtures can become clogged or damaged if not cleaned properly, leading to costly repairs or replacements. By keeping water closets clean and well-maintained, building owners and managers can avoid these issues and extend the lifespan of their fixtures.
Overall, cleaning water closets is an essential task that should not be overlooked. By prioritizing hygiene and maintenance, building owners and managers can ensure that their facilities are safe, healthy, and functional for their users.
Cleaning the Environment
In addition to ensuring the cleanliness of the interior of a space, it is also important to pay attention to the outside surroundings and utilities. These external elements can have a significant impact on the overall cleanliness of a property, and neglecting them can result in an unkempt and unpleasant environment.
For instance, if the surrounding area is littered with debris or covered in dirt and grime, it can detract from the visual appeal of the property and create an uninviting atmosphere. Similarly, neglecting the maintenance of utilities such as garbage bins, water tanks, and drainage systems can lead to unpleasant odors and potential health hazards.
Therefore, it is important to prioritize the cleaning of both the interior and exterior of a space, including the surrounding area and utilities. This can involve regular maintenance and cleaning of outdoor surfaces, as well as proper waste disposal and management of utilities. By ensuring a thorough and consistent approach to cleaning, the overall cleanliness and appeal of a property can be significantly enhanced.
Special Treatments in Building Maintenance
Certain treatments in special areas must be done at regular intervals for the building maintenance. Some of them are explained below:
Plinth area projection
Regular cleaning of the ventilators installed in the ceiling areas is crucial to prevent the accumulation of dirt. Neglecting to clean them regularly can result in a build-up of dirt and grime, which can be difficult to remove during the later stages of cleaning. Therefore, it is recommended to clean them on a routine basis to ensure that they remain in good working condition and to minimize the effort required for cleaning them thoroughly. By keeping the ventilators clean, the air circulation and quality can be maintained, which is essential for ensuring a healthy and hygienic environment.
Plinth area projection
The plinth area of a building requires cleaning due to the accumulation of dust in the space. If left unattended, the accumulation of dust can lead to the development of dampness in the area. This can be a cause for concern as dampness can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can pose health risks for the occupants of the building. It is therefore important to regularly clean the plinth area to prevent the accumulation of dust and the subsequent development of dampness. By taking proactive measures to keep the plinth area clean, building owners can ensure the safety and well-being of their occupants.
Ventilators
Regular cleaning of ventilators located in the ceiling is essential to prevent the accumulation of dirt and other debris. When these units are not cleaned on a regular basis, the build-up of grime can become severe, making it difficult to clean properly. By performing routine maintenance, facility managers can avoid the need for intense cleaning procedures during the later stages of the ventilator’s life cycle. Not only does this save time and money, but it also helps ensure that the unit is functioning properly and providing clean air to the building’s occupants. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize regular cleaning of ventilators to maintain a safe and healthy indoor environment.
White or color washing
The need for repainting walls with a fresh coat of whitewash or color wash arises after a period of 1 to 2 years. The frequency of repainting is largely dependent on the climatic conditions and other environmental factors that a building is exposed to. To reduce the frequency of repainting, oil paints can be used as they offer a maintenance-free period of 6 to 8 years. However, it is important to carry out repainting before the old paint begins to degrade.
In order to prevent moisture penetration, exterior and interior paints are differentiated. Special exterior paints are used to achieve this purpose. It is crucial to use the appropriate type of paint for each specific area, as the characteristics of the paint play a crucial role in protecting the surface of the wall. By using exterior paints that are designed for outdoor use, the durability and lifespan of the paint can be extended, and the wall can be better protected from the elements.
Maintenance of doors and windows
It is recommended to paint windows and doors every four years, although this may vary depending on their usage and how often they are cleaned. It is important to pay attention to the condition of the hinges, as well. If the doors or windows make noise when they are opened, it is necessary to apply oil to the hinges. By doing so, this will prevent any unnecessary noise and ensure that the doors and windows function properly. Overall, keeping up with regular maintenance is essential to prolong the life of windows and doors.
Maintenance of metal grills and utilities
Regular cleaning of shutters and painted grills is crucial in preventing corrosion. It is essential to keep a check on any signs of rust, which can lead to damage over time. If rust is detected, it must be thoroughly removed without leaving any trace behind. Repainting the affected area will help prevent future corrosion and ensure that the shutters and grills continue to function correctly. By taking these preventative measures, homeowners can prolong the life of their shutters and grills and avoid costly repairs or replacements down the line.
Floor Treatment and maintenance
The method used to treat a soiled floor depends on the type of flooring installed. For marble floors stained with grease, a mixture of chalk dust and acetone paste is applied and left overnight. The following day, a sponge is used to clean the surface. When dealing with organic stains, such as those caused by food liquids, a paste made from chalk dust and hydrogen peroxide is used to eliminate the discoloration. Rust stains can also be removed using this same technique.
Terrazzo floors that have been stained by oil or grease can be treated by mixing hydrated lime powder and marble dust. Alternatively, benzoyl or clear gasoline can be applied to the surface for 12 hours, followed by washing to achieve a clean finish.
Periodic polishing can improve the appearance of PVC floors, while linoleum floors can be cleaned using white kerosene oil to remove dirt and grime.
Water Carrying Systems
Regular cleaning of sumps and overhead water tanks is crucial to ensure the stored water remains safe and hygienic for consumption. As these containers are designed to hold water, it is essential to maintain them at a high level of cleanliness to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria or other contaminants that may compromise the water quality.
To ensure adequate hygiene, it is recommended that these storage tanks be cleaned at regular intervals, with a maximum interval of three months between each cleaning. This practice will help to prevent the buildup of sediment, algae, or other debris that can accumulate over time, which may affect the water’s taste, odor, and quality.
By adhering to a regular cleaning schedule, property owners can help to ensure that their water storage systems remain in good condition and continue to provide safe, clean drinking water for their households or businesses. This simple yet critical maintenance task can help to prevent costly repairs or replacements down the line and promote the health and well-being of everyone who relies on the stored water supply.
Tree Root Problem
Trees with lateral roots can cause issues for building substructures as they absorb moisture from underground, leading to cracks in the walls of the structure. It is important to address this issue early on by removing the trees responsible for the problem. In cases where fully grown trees are present, trenching along the walls of the building and cutting the roots is necessary. After cutting the root, it is recommended to apply a coat of coal tar to prevent any further growth in that direction. This approach can help to mitigate the damage caused by tree roots and preserve the integrity of the building substructure.
Supply lines
Proper checks can prevent leakage in water supply lines. However, when it comes to sewer lines and rainwater pipes, it is crucial to seal any leaks as soon as possible. The process involves opening up the affected area, cleaning it thoroughly, and then reassembling the pipes to prevent any further leakage. It is important to address these issues promptly to prevent any potential damage to the surrounding environment and to maintain a safe and healthy living environment for everyone.
Electrical utilities
It is crucial to conduct regular inspections of electrical lines, wires, and switches to ensure their optimal functioning. Regular maintenance checks are necessary to identify any potential issues or hazards that may arise over time. By monitoring these components at regular intervals, any faults or wear and tear can be detected early on and addressed promptly to prevent further damage or electrical failures. This proactive approach helps to maintain the safety and reliability of the electrical system, minimizing the risk of electrical accidents or disruptions. Therefore, regular checks of electrical lines, wires, and switches are essential to ensure their smooth operation and prevent potential hazards.