Groundbreaking News – Should you close your doors for a remodel?

Outdated or damaged commercial property can be a drain on your image and the efficiency of your business. A major remodeling project can boost your business in the long run, but what is the best strategy for handling operations during construction?

Our crew at Peter Schwabe, Inc. is experienced in running remodeling projects with minimal impact on business. We work hard to keep businesses open during such projects. In some cases, however, you could do your business a disservice by trying to remain open throughout the entire project. If you are not able to meet quality expectations during your remodel, you may damage your reputation and lose valuable customers.

A cost-benefit analysis may show that you actually come out ahead by preplanning a brief shutdown to complete the work. Consider the following.

How long will the remodel take?
Most business owners prefer to keep their businesses operational during a remodel, and most contractors will bend over backwards to make that happen. Performing the most disruptive work afterhours is a common practice, but it can extend completion time exponentially. If you need your project completed on an extremely tight timeline, planning ahead and closing for a short duration can be your quickest option.

How disruptive will the remodel be?
If the project interferes with your employees' ability to complete their normal, everyday tasks – or compromises your customers’ experience or product quality – then you will need to shut down business during your remodel. Things like the installation of a new interior sprinkler system, flooring, under slab plumbing or major additions may be too disturbing to keep business up and running as usual.

Is it safe to stay open?
Obviously, if you cannot offer your product or service safely and meet health codes during your remodel, you will need to shut down. Contractors have methods of closing certain areas of the building while the other parts remain open, but if that cannot be done in a way that protects safety and sanitary requirements, you must close your doors. Your contractor should work with you to minimize the required shut-down time and get you back up and running as quickly as possible.

Is there an effective option to relocate temporarily?
Depending on the scope of the project, you could consider moving your business to a different location during the construction duration. Examples include a opening a temporary mobile or "pop-up" office, joining operations with a nearby second office/location, or negotiating a short-term lease of nearby space.

Can you use a brief shut-down to your benefit?
If you decide a brief shut-down is best for business, get the most out of it! Create excitement and publicize the impending benefits to your employees and customers. Plan a special event, offer incentives and promotions, advertise the improvements, and post project updates on social media. Leverage this opportunity to create buzz around your improvements!

A successful construction project means the job is done on time, within budget, and to high quality standards. At Peter Schwabe, Inc., we go beyond the ordinary. We share your concerns, vision, and enthusiasm throughout each step of the construction process.

Our team takes pride managing each detail of a project to suit your project goals. We work with you to understand the unique aspects of your business that play into the project, your timeline needs, and what your space needs to achieve for you and your team. This informs how we advise you along the way, how we direct the project team, and how we get you the most for your investment.

A lot has changed over the last 95+ years PSI has been providing construction services; however, our differentiators remain consistent: On time, on budget and top craftsmanship. For more information on how Peter Schwabe, Inc. can help with your next construction project, contact Michael Gilbert, Director of Business Development, at 262-352-9786 or mgilbert@pschwabe.com.