SchoolFacilities.com

Portable Classroom Lockdown: Door Locks and Emergency Comms

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Mon, 19 Oct 2026 02:42:47 +0000

By Matt Banes · 38 years in commercial modular buildings · Updated October 2026

To lock down a portable classroom safely, the teacher must be able to lock the door from inside without opening it, staff and responders must be able to unlock it from outside with a key or credential, and anyone inside must still be able to open it with one motion and no key. Those are the conditions in the model building and fire codes (IBC/IFC Section 1010.2.8 in the 2021 edition) and NFPA 101, with hardware mounted 34 to 48 inches above the floor. Every portable should also have two-way communication with the office and a direct line to 911.

Key takeaways

In a portable, the classroom door is usually also the building's exterior door, so it has to meet security, egress, accessibility and weather demands at once.
Code-compliant classroom locks engage from inside without opening the door, allow free egress, and unlock from outside with a key or credential (NFPA 101, 2021).
Barricade devices that block the door or modify door closers and panic hardware are not code-compliant; PASS and fire officials caution against them.
The Partner Alliance for Safer Schools (PASS) 7th edition moved inside-lockable classroom doors to Tier 1, the baseline for every school.
Communication is half of lockdown: PA or intercom, a phone that dials 911 directly, and a silent panic alert where required.

What does "lockdown-ready" mean for a portable classroom?

This article sits in the portable classrooms pillar. A lockdown is the response to a threat on or near campus: doors locked, lights off, occupants out of sight. A classroom security lock locks the outside lever from inside the room (by key, thumbturn or button) while the inside lever always opens the door. A barricade device is an add-on that jams or blocks the door. For fencing, lighting and funding, see securing portable classrooms.

What do the codes require for classroom door locks?

Source	Requirement
IBC/IFC 1010.2.8, Locking arrangements in educational occupancies (2021; 1010.1.4.4 in 2018) (City of Houston summary)	Locks designed to keep intruders out are permitted if the door can be unlocked from outside with a key or other approved means, opens from inside per the egress rules, and no modifications are made to listed panic hardware, fire door hardware or door closers. Remote locking and unlocking from an approved location is allowed in addition.
NFPA 101 Life Safety Code 14.2.2.2.4 (new) and 15.2.2.2.4.1 (existing), 2021 edition (text)	Lock engages from inside without opening the door; unlocks from inside without a key, tool or special knowledge; one releasing motion (existing buildings may have two non-simultaneous motions if the AHJ approves); hardware 34 to 48 inches above the floor; unlockable from outside with a key or credential; must not modify closers or panic hardware; staff drilled on locking and releasing from both sides.
2010 ADA Standards 404.2.7 (US Access Board guide)	Hardware operable with one hand without tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist, mounted 34 to 48 inches above the floor or ground.
PASS Safety and Security Guidelines, 7th edition (2025) (PASS)	Inside-lockable classroom doors are Tier 1. Locks must allow keyed or electronic access from the corridor side and always allow free egress; a visible locked/unlocked indicator is recommended (Security Sales, May 2026).

The building official and fire marshal decide which edition applies, and some states are stricter. Section numbers move between editions, so confirm the adopted edition before specifying hardware.

Why is door hardware harder on a portable?

It is an exterior door. Weather and sun wear out locksets, closers and weatherstripping faster.
Accessibility still applies. The door needs a 32-inch minimum clear width and thresholds limited to 1/2 inch in new construction (Access Board). See ADA ramps, steps and lifts.
Closers must work. A lock is useless if the door does not latch on its own. ADA requires closers to take at least 5 seconds from 90 to 12 degrees.
Panic hardware. If a room's calculated occupant load is 50 or more, panic hardware is required (iDigHardware, 2023). Lock choices then have to work with the exit device.
Wiring is limited. Readers, electric locks and intercoms need power and data run to a detached building.

What I tell schools is to check the door before buying the lock: hinges tight, frame square, closer adjusted, latch engaging. An older portable may have settled enough that the door no longer latches without a push.

Which lock types work best in portables?

Lock approach	How it locks for lockdown	Strengths	Watch-outs
Older classroom or storeroom function	Teacher must lock with a key from outside, or door is always locked	Simple, already installed	Teacher steps outside to lock; a PASS advisor says these traditional functions no longer meet best-practice guidelines (Locksmith Ledger, 2023)
Classroom security (intruder) lock	Key or thumbturn from inside locks the outside lever	Locks without opening the door; mechanical, no power needed	Key management; thumbturns let anyone lock, so plan for misuse
Push-button or indicator lockset	Button or switch from inside, with a visible status indicator	Fast; teacher can see it is locked	Must still unlock from outside with a key or credential
Electronic access control with remote lockdown	Office or software locks every portable at once	Ties portables into the campus system; audit trail	Needs power, data and battery backup; local lock still recommended

California's AB 2565 (2024), now Education Code 17586, requires interior locks on doors of rooms with five or more occupants when a school building undergoes an addition, alteration, reconstruction, rehabilitation or retrofit, contingent on state funding. Florida's locked-door law, revised in 2025, keeps classroom doors locked during instruction (Bay News 9, May 2025). Texas requires exterior doors of instructional facilities, including portables, to be closed, latched and locked, with limited exceptions and at least weekly checks (19 TAC §61.1031).

Are classroom barricade devices allowed?

Generally not as a substitute for compliant hardware. The model codes and NFPA 101 do not allow classroom locking to modify or impair panic hardware, fire door hardware or closers. The Minnesota State Fire Marshal warns that non-compliant devices can create new hazards and keep responders out (Minnesota SFM). PASS also cautions against barricades for code and ADA reasons. Before buying any add-on device, ask your fire marshal in writing.

How should teachers in a portable communicate during a lockdown?

Lockdown fails if the teacher cannot hear the alert or call for help, so build in redundancy:

Channel	What it does	Rule or standard
PA speaker and call-in intercom	Hears campus announcements; calls the office	Texas requires every portable classroom to have access to a communication device (19 TAC §61.1040)
Classroom phone (VoIP or multi-line)	Calls 911 directly and gives location	Kari's Law: dial 911 with no prefix and notify a central on-site location; RAY BAUM'S Act: send a dispatchable location (FCC)
Silent panic alert	Alerts office and police without a sound	Silent panic alarm (Alyssa's Law) requirements in 13 states as of September 2026 (Stateline); Texas SB 838 requires it in every classroom from 2025-26
Two-way link with fire alarm	Connects detached buildings to the office	California DSA requires two-way communication with the main office for temporary relocatables more than 25 feet from other buildings with a standalone fire alarm (DSA IR A-1)
Mass notification	Voice and visible alerts for non-fire emergencies	Designed under NFPA 72 Chapter 24 (Emergency Communications Systems) based on a risk analysis (CSE magazine)
Radio or mobile app	Backup if power or network fails	District policy

Metal-skinned portables can weaken cell and radio signals, so test every channel from inside each unit with the door closed. Make sure 911 location data names the portable, and number each building to match the map given to police and fire.

What does it cost? Costs vary widely. A new classroom security lockset is usually the smallest line item. Extending intercom/PA, access control and two-way radio coverage to a portable costs more, and the price depends mostly on the distance to the main building, whether wiring has to be trenched or can go wireless, and what your existing campus system can support. Get a price from your locksmith or security integrator after they walk the site, and confirm the hardware meets your fire marshal's egress rules before you buy.

Portable classroom lockdown checklist

Check	Pass when
Door closes and latches	On its own from fully open, every time
Lock from inside	Teacher locks without opening the door
Free egress	Inside lever opens the door in one motion with no key
Unlock from outside	Admin and responders have keys or credentials; key plan coordinated with police and fire
Vision panel and windows	Covering or film plan; shelter spot out of the line of sight
PA/intercom	Announcement audible inside with HVAC running
911 call	Direct dial works; location shows the building number
Panic alert	Tested from inside the unit
Drills	Staff practice locking and releasing from both sides (NFPA 101)

In my experience, the portables that perform best in drills are the ones someone has walked out to and tested, rather than assuming the main building's systems reach them. Fire alarm and evacuation needs for the same buildings are covered in fire safety for portable classrooms.

Can a school change locks on a leased or used portable?

On a leased unit, get the leasing company's written approval before changing locksets or drilling for readers, and agree whether hardware stays at return. On a used unit, budget for new hardware, since keys and lock functions are often out of date. If the long-term plan is a permanent building, specify lockdown hardware in the design from day one (see permanent modular school buildings).

FAQ

Do portable classroom doors need to lock from the inside?

The model codes permit inside-locking classroom doors as long as egress stays free and the door can be unlocked from outside. Some states require it, such as California under AB 2565 (2024) for additions and alterations, contingent on state funding, and PASS lists inside-lockable classroom doors as a Tier 1 baseline.

What height should a classroom door lock be?

Between 34 and 48 inches above the floor, under both the 2010 ADA Standards (404.2.7) and NFPA 101's classroom locking provisions.

Are door barricade devices legal in schools?

Devices that block egress, keep responders out, or modify panic hardware, fire door hardware or closers do not meet the model codes. Ask your fire marshal before buying any add-on device.

Does a portable classroom need a panic button?

In states with Alyssa's Law, silent panic alert requirements generally reach every classroom, including portables. Texas SB 838 requires silent panic alert technology in every classroom from 2025-26.

Do classroom phones have to dial 911 directly?

Under Kari's Law, multi-line telephone systems installed after February 16, 2020 must dial 911 without a prefix and notify a central on-site location. RAY BAUM'S Act adds dispatchable location requirements.

About the author

Matt Banes has spent 38 years in the commercial modular building industry, including more than a decade at Williams Scotsman. He is president of iModular.com, where he values and inspects modular buildings. SchoolFacilities.com is an independent resource. We solve school space needs.

Portable Classroom Tie-Downs: Anchoring for Wind and Earthquakes

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Sat, 17 Oct 2026 03:10:27 +0000

By Matt Banes · 38 years in commercial modular buildings · Updated October 2026

A portable classroom has to be anchored to resist wind uplift, sliding and earthquake forces at the site where it sits, and that requirement starts over every time the building moves. Under the International Existing Building Code (IEBC) Chapter 14, a relocated building must meet the wind, seismic, snow and flood loads of its new location, with a foundation and a foundation connection that comply with the building code. The anchoring is engineered for each site and approved by the building official or, for public schools in some states, a state agency such as California's Division of the State Architect.

Key takeaways

A tie-down connects the building to an anchor or foundation so it cannot lift, slide or overturn. Piers alone only carry weight.
Anchoring is site-specific: a relocated portable must meet the loads at its new site (IEBC Chapter 14), and the 2024 IBC adopted new wind and snow maps through ASCE 7-22.
FEMA found portables are "frequently blown over" in high winds because inexpensive anchoring is inadequate (FEMA 424, 2004).
California public schools need a permanent foundation when the floor framing sits more than 18 inches above grade, the building exceeds 2,160 sq ft, or it is more than one story (DSA IR 16-1).
Inspect tie-downs every year. Florida law requires it for every relocatable used as a classroom or occupied by students.

What is a tie-down, and how is a portable classroom anchored?

This article sits in the portable classrooms pillar: relocatable buildings that can be moved again. A permanent modular school building, the other pillar, sits on a permanent foundation like a site-built school. The vocabulary:

Pier or blocking: supports under the frame that carry the building's weight. They resist gravity, not uplift.
Tie-down: a steel strap, cable or rod that connects the building to an anchor or footing to resist uplift, sliding and overturning.
Ground anchor: a helical or auger-type steel anchor screwed into the soil, which the tie-down attaches to. Its holding capacity depends on the soil.
Permanent foundation: concrete footings, slabs or stem walls with an engineered connection to the building.

Anchoring method	What it resists	Where you see it	Who designs it
Piers or blocking only	Gravity loads only	Should never be the whole system for an occupied classroom	n/a
Piers plus straps to ground anchors	Uplift, sliding, overturning (if engineered for the site)	Common on rented and short-term portables where the jurisdiction allows ground anchors	Engineer, per manufacturer's installation instructions and local approval
Wood non-permanent foundation with pipe anchors	Sliding; DSA deems it acceptable for uplift	California public school relocatables that meet DSA size and height limits	Design professional, DSA-approved plans
Combined steel pier and tie-down system (for example, CP Anchor Pier)	Gravity, uplift and lateral (wind and seismic) loads in one unit, within its approved ratings	HCD-approved commercial modulars on flat, stable sites in California	Installed to the manufacturer's state-approved plans; engineer where site conditions require
Permanent concrete foundation	All design loads	Larger, taller, multi-story or long-term buildings	Engineer of record, building official or state agency approval

Combined pier and tie-down systems

Some manufactured steel pier systems do all three jobs in one unit: they carry the building's weight, tie it down against uplift, and brace it against earthquake and wind movement. The CP Anchor Pier from Central Piers, a maker of foundation and set-up products since 1973, is one example. It is state-approved in California for 100 mph wind loads and 100 lb snow loads, is listed and labeled by CTC Services, installs with basic hand tools, and goes no more than 15 inches into the ground, compared with about 30 inches for auger-type anchors (product listing). State-approved plans are available for foundations, tie-downs and earthquake bracing.

We use this type of system often on California commercial modular buildings approved through HCD, such as private school, church and office installations on flat, stable ground. It is fast, removable when the building moves, and usually straightforward for the local building department to approve on a suitable site. It is not a substitute for a site-specific engineered foundation where one is required, such as public school relocatables under DSA, soft or uneven soils, or high-wind coastal zones; there, the engineer of record decides.

What codes govern anchoring a portable classroom?

When a portable is moved, the IEBC Chapter 14 (Relocated or Moved Buildings) applies, as summarized in the Modular Building Institute's 2026 Annual Report: the building must meet the wind, seismic and snow loads for the new site. California adopts the IEBC as the California Existing Building Code, which keeps the model code's section numbers, and its Section 1402 spells out the pieces:

1402.2 and 1402.2.1: the foundation and the connection of the building to the foundation must comply with the building code.
1402.3 (wind) and 1402.4 (seismic): the building must meet wind and seismic provisions at the new location, with narrow exceptions (such as elements whose stress rises no more than 10 percent).
1402.5 (snow): applies where snow loads at the new site are higher than at the old one.
1402.6 (flood): a building moved into a flood hazard area must comply with the building code's flood provisions (IBC/CBC Section 1612).
1402.7: the code official may require an inspection for damage from the move, with repairs before final approval.

The MBI report notes that the 2024 IBC updated wind and snow maps by adopting ASCE 7-22, so an older unit moved into a jurisdiction on the 2024 IBC may need upgrades. The engineer starts from the design loads on each module's data plate. See our guide to buying a used portable classroom.

Why does anchoring matter so much in high winds?

FEMA's Design Guide for Improving School Safety in Earthquakes, Floods, and High Winds (FEMA 424, Chapter 6) (2004) says portable classrooms are "frequently blown over during high-wind events" because the inexpensive techniques typically used are inadequate to anchor them. FEMA recommends:

Unless portables, including their ground anchorage, are designed for the same wind loads as the main building, consider occupants at risk during high winds.
Do not occupy portables when high winds are forecast.
Site portables so that, if one fails in a storm from the prevailing wind direction, its debris will not hit the main school building.

A portable is not a storm shelter. Since the 2015 IBC, Section 423 has required ICC 500 storm shelters, with limited exceptions, for Group E occupancies with an aggregate occupant load of 50 or more in the 250 mph shelter design wind speed region (STRUCTURE magazine), so students in portables need a route to it. Texas treats installing a modular building as new construction, including storm-shelter requirements (19 TAC §61.1040).

What about earthquakes?

The earthquake risk is a building sliding off or falling from its supports. California's DSA requires a positive connection between isolated piers and the floor structure on every foundation (DSA IR 16-1, 2025 CBC, revised April 2026). For wood non-permanent foundations, IR 16-1 requires anti-sliding pipes or rods within two feet of each corner in both directions, penetrating at least 12 inches into soil or paving.

How do the rules differ by state?

Jurisdiction	Rule	Who decides
Model codes (most states)	IEBC Chapter 14 for relocated buildings; IBC/ASCE 7 loads for the site	Local building official
California public K-12	Permanent foundation required if floor framing is more than 18" above grade, area exceeds 2,160 sq ft, or more than one story (DSA IR 16-1)	Division of the State Architect
Texas	All foundations for industrialized buildings designed by a Texas licensed engineer or architect, including tie-down specifications; ground anchors allowed for buildings only if the municipality deems them appropriate (TDLR)	TDLR, local building official, or Council-approved inspectors outside city limits
Texas first-tier coastal counties	For TWIA windstorm eligibility, a Texas PE-sealed design and TDI windstorm inspection are needed; the TDLR inspection does not satisfy this (TDLR TB 1004)	Texas Department of Insurance
Florida	Relocatable standards must address wind resistance; annual inspection of foundations and tie-downs for every relocatable used as a classroom or occupied by students (F.S. 1013.20)	District school board
South Carolina	Engineered foundation plans for support, tie-down, seismic and wind resistance (SCDE relocatable guide, 2012)	SCDE Office of School Facilities

If your state is not listed, start with the local building official, then your state education agency's facilities office.

Who is responsible for anchoring a rented portable?

Read the lease. Leases often price the building separately from site work. A 2025 Montgomery County (MD) Public Schools lease bid, for example, excluded ramps, decks, foundations and ground anchors from the unit scope (MCPS ITB, January 2025). What I tell schools is to get one name, in writing, for who designs the tie-downs, who installs them, who gets the inspection signed off and who removes them at the end of the term. See also site preparation for portables.

What does anchoring cost? In my experience, anchoring a single portable classroom runs from a few thousand dollars to several thousand dollars. The low end is a standard ground-anchor and strap system in an area with moderate wind and little seismic risk. The high end is where a professional engineer specifies heavier anchors, more tie-down points or a permanent foundation for hurricane-prone coasts, high-wind zones or high seismic areas, and the state and/or local building authority must approve that design. Soil conditions and site access move the number too. Anchoring is often billed as part of a "block, level and anchor" line in the installation price rather than as a separate item, as in this Suwannee County (FL) Schools relocatable classroom RFP (2020), so ask for it to be itemized.

Annual tie-down inspection checklist

When I inspect a used portable, I get under it first, because a building that has lost its anchoring or settled off its piers changes the whole deal. The same walk-around works for a school's own fleet:

Item	What to look for
Straps and cables	Present at every location on the approved plan; tight; no rust-through, fraying or cuts
Anchor heads	Not pulled up, leaning or loose in the soil; not undermined by erosion
Strap-to-frame connections	Bolts and buckles in place; no bent or cracked brackets
Piers and blocking	Plumb, tight to the frame, no cracked block, no settlement
Drainage	Water not ponding under the building or washing out anchors
Floor and doors	Sloping floors or sticking doors can signal settlement
Ramps and decks	Attached and anchored as designed; not pulling away from the building

Florida files and posts each relocatable's annual inspection report (F.S. 1013.20), a good model for any district. For fire separation between units, see fire safety for portable classrooms.

What happens to the anchoring when a portable is moved?

Treat anchoring as part of the new site, not the building. The engineer designs tie-downs for the new site's wind speed, seismic category and soil, and the official approves them. In my experience the anchoring plan is one of the items most often missing from early relocation budgets. For a long-term installation, compare the cost against a permanent modular building (see permanent modular school buildings).

FAQ

Do portable classrooms have to be tied down?

Yes. An occupied portable must be anchored for the wind, seismic and other loads the building code requires at its site, using an engineered design approved by the building official or state agency. Piers alone do not hold it down.

Can a portable classroom keep its old tie-downs when it moves?

Not automatically. Under IEBC Chapter 14, the foundation and its connection are designed for the loads at the new site. Existing hardware is reused only if that design allows it.

Should students stay in portables during high winds?

FEMA recommends not occupying portables when high winds are forecast, and considers occupants at risk unless the portables and their anchorage are designed for the same wind loads as the main building.

When does a California portable need a permanent foundation?

For public schools under DSA, a permanent foundation is required when the floor framing is more than 18 inches above grade, the building exceeds 2,160 square feet, or it is more than one story (DSA IR 16-1).

How often should portable classroom tie-downs be inspected?

At least once a year and after any major storm or earthquake. Florida law requires annual inspection of foundations and tie-downs for every relocatable used as a classroom or occupied by students.

About the author

Can School Shootings Be Stopped?

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Wed, 29 Mar 2023 22:30:00 +0000

School shootings are a complex issue, and there is no simple solution to stopping them. However, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of school shootings and prevent them from happening.

One approach is to improve school safety measures, such as implementing active shooter drills, installing security cameras, and hiring more school resource officers. Additionally, identifying and addressing mental health issues in students can also help prevent school shootings. This includes providing access to mental health services and support for students who may be struggling with mental health issues.

Another approach is to address the root causes of school shootings, such as bullying, social isolation, and access to firearms. Schools can promote a culture of kindness and inclusivity, provide resources for students to report bullying, and work with parents and law enforcement to prevent students from accessing firearms.

It is important to note that preventing school shootings will require a coordinated effort from multiple stakeholders, including educators, parents, law enforcement, and policymakers. While there is no foolproof solution, taking proactive measures can help reduce the risk of school shootings and create a safer learning environment for students.

How to Achieve LEED Certification for Your School Facility

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 16:23:00 +0000

To become LEED certified, a school must meet specific criteria in several categories related to sustainability, including:

Sustainable Site: This category evaluates the school's location and transportation options, such as proximity to public transportation, bike storage, and parking.
Water Efficiency: This category assesses the school's water usage, including indoor and outdoor water use, and encourages the use of water-efficient fixtures and landscaping.
Energy and Atmosphere: This category evaluates the school's energy efficiency, including HVAC systems, lighting, and renewable energy sources.
Materials and Resources: This category evaluates the school's use of sustainable materials, waste reduction strategies, and recycling programs.
Indoor Environmental Quality: This category evaluates the school's indoor air quality, ventilation, and other factors that contribute to a healthy and productive learning environment.
Innovation: This category rewards schools for implementing innovative strategies that go beyond the basic LEED certification requirements.

Based on the school's performance in these categories, it can earn points towards LEED certification, with higher scores corresponding to higher levels of certification (Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum).

To learn more about LEED certification for your school, you can visit the website of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), which administers the LEED certification program. On the USGBC website, you can find information on the LEED certification process, including the criteria that schools must meet in order to become certified.

You can also explore resources specifically geared towards LEED certification for schools, such as the USGBC's Center for Green Schools, which provides guidance and resources for creating healthy and sustainable learning environments.

Additionally, you may want to consider reaching out to local green building organizations or sustainability experts for guidance on the LEED certification process and how it applies to your school.

Finally, it may be helpful to speak with other schools in your area that have undergone the certification process to learn about their experiences and best practices.

The Top 5 School Facility Management Concerns

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Wed, 22 Mar 2023 04:43:00 +0000

Top 5 School Facility Management Concerns for Public School Facility Managers in the United States

Safety and Security: One of the biggest concerns for public school facility managers is the safety and security of students and staff. This includes implementing security measures such as access control systems, security cameras, and emergency communication systems to prevent incidents such as violence and unauthorized access to the school premises.
Aging Infrastructure: Many public schools in the United States have aging infrastructure that requires significant maintenance and repair. This includes outdated HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical, and other mechanical systems. Facility managers must ensure that these systems are functioning properly to ensure the health and safety of students and staff.
Budget Constraints: Public schools often operate with limited budgets, which can make it difficult to maintain and repair facilities adequately. Facility managers must find ways to stretch budgets to ensure that the school facilities are functional and safe for students and staff.
Energy Efficiency: Public schools are often large and energy-intensive facilities, which can lead to high utility bills. Facility managers must implement energy-efficient solutions such as LED lighting, smart thermostats, and renewable energy sources to reduce energy costs and conserve resources.
Environmental Sustainability: Many public schools are implementing sustainable practices such as recycling, composting, and using environmentally-friendly cleaning products. Facility managers play a critical role in ensuring that these practices are implemented effectively and efficiently.

These are the top 5 concerns that public school facility managers in the United States face when it comes to managing school facilities. Addressing these concerns is crucial to ensuring that students and staff have a safe, functional, and sustainable learning environment.

Should I Rent or Buy a Modular Classroom in Texas?

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Sat, 27 Apr 2019 06:11:00 +0000

Rent or buy a modular classroom?

This is the most common question I answer for schools, daycare centers and churches across the U.S. - and Texas is no exception. There are many options with respect to making a modular classroom decision and your budget is a major concern, especially with annual school spending being subject to so many changes. For some public schools a long term rental is a good fit for a modular classroom while a private school may have the total funds available for a purchase.

For the Texas rules that apply to relocatable classrooms, including TDLR industrialized building requirements, see our modular school construction guide.

Web Site Helps Schools Save on Renting Modular Classrooms

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Sun, 10 Dec 2017 18:01:00 +0000

Typical modular classroom at a school.

Public and private schools have utilized modular classrooms - also referred to as portable classrooms for years to solve space problems on campuses of all sizes. In some cases a school will need to rent modulars during construction or renovation in order to keep classes open and accommodate students. In other cases there simply is not enough space due to overcrowding thus forcing a school to add space wherever it can as soon as possible. Regardless of the actual space problem modular buildings have provided a fast and economical solution to thousands of k-12 schools, colleges, churches and daycare programs throughout the United States and abroad.

"Modular building suppliers have evolved over the years and have a very good understanding of the education space market and the demands of any type of school in need of space," stated one Facility Manager at a large public school district in Ohio.

Utilizing modular buildings may be an easy solution to a difficult space problem but the tasks of identifying the amount of space needed, where to place the modular structures and how long to rent them can be daunting for any busy facility staff person. Add the seemingly endless amount of time it takes to contact suppliers, schedule site visits and review prices and the process becomes a real challenge to manage.

Interior of portable modular
classroom.

Planning a modular classroom project? Start with our portable classrooms guide, or call toll-free nationwide (888) 998-8367 with your question.

HVAC ROI: beyond energy efficiency

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Wed, 08 May 2013 02:51:00 +0000

(Dallas, TX May 7, 2013) When it comes to helping your customers get the most out of their HVAC investment, there's more to the bottom line than swapping out an old, out-of-date system for a shiny, new, high-efficiency model. While the new, higher-performing system will instantly result in monthly utility savings they can see, there's more to ROI than efficiency ratings and first cost.

As businesses consider the purchase of packaged HVAC units, tallying the total ROI—from first cost, setup and installation to ongoing service and maintenance—is the best way to determine which system will offer your customers the best return in the long run.

Here's what to look for when choosing or replacing an HVAC unit:

Easy installation
Did the HVAC manufacturer do its research to find out what the contractor needs in order to make the system easier to install? Simplifying the installation process is a win-win for both the contractor and the end user. It all comes down to less time spent on the job, and fewer subcontractors needed to get the job done—which in turn equates to less cost to the end user, and potentially more time for contractors to add another job to the day's roster. Look for intelligent controls that verify proper system setup with a guided menu that reduces complexity of start-up and commissioning, and keyed and color-coded wire connectors that simplify field sensor or thermostat installation and prevent miswiring. These features add up to a quicker and easier installation process, ensuring equipment is installed correctly and helping contractors get to the next job quicker.

Factory-installed options
Everyone benefits from features that help save time and money. Factory-installed options are another way HVAC manufacturers help contractors, as well as end users, save money. These add-ons are typically created to ensure the unit runs at its maximum capability and efficiency, offering peace of mind to the contractor and increased savings to the end user. Look for intelligent controls <http://www.lennoxcommercial.com/products/commercial-controls.asp> that record and track the runtime of every major system component for quick and easy troubleshooting, and multi-stage air volume supply fan technology <http://www.lennoxcommercial.com/landing/msav.asp> that provides customers with increased comfort and savings all year long.

Service and maintenance savings According to research, facilities in which proper HVAC maintenance is completed will use at least 15 to 20 percent less energy than those where systems are allowed to deteriorate. Performing regular preventive maintenance can keep equipment operating at peak efficiency, helping customers save time and money in the process. Look for:

* Hinged door panels that make units easier to service and eliminate the need for screws, which can come loose during service and cause rooftop penetration
* Units with slide-out blower motor compartments that provide quicker, easier access to the unit's belt, blower motor and coils
* An isolated compressor compartment that allows performance checks during normal compressor operation without disrupting airflow

Choose a reliable HVAC manufacturer
When it comes to selecting energy-efficient HVAC for light commercial buildings <http://www.lennoxcommercial.com/products/packaged-rooftop-units/Landmark/> , Lennox Commercial is an industry leader. Lennox' 18 SEER Energence® units <http://www.lennoxcommercial.com/products/packaged-rooftop-units/Energence/> are designed with comfort, reliability, efficiency and ease of use and service in mind, providing peace of mind to contractors as well as end users. For more information, visit www.lennoxcommercial.com.

About Lennox Industries Inc.
A worldwide leader in residential and commercial heating and air conditioning systems, Lennox Industries Inc. is based near Dallas, Texas. Deeply committed to helping consumers and businesses reduce energy needs and lessen their environmental impact, the company offers a wide range of resources for improving efficiency, including a selection of ENERGY STAR® qualified products. Lennox Industries is a subsidiary of Lennox International Inc. and is a global leader in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration markets. Lennox International stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "LII." To learn more about Lennox International, visit www.lennoxinternational.com. To learn more about Lennox Industries, contact a Lennox sales representative or visit www.lennox.com <http://www.lennox.com/> .

Modular classroom cost?

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Sat, 04 May 2013 14:33:00 +0000

My school is searching for a new modular classroom (portable) for twenty-five students and we wanted to get the best price possible. How?

It is one of the most common questions schools ask. For current cost ranges and what drives them, see How much does modular school construction cost? in our modular school construction guide.

How many portable classrooms are in the United States?

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 03:03:00 +0000

According to Lawrence Berkeley Laboratories in 2011 there were 600,000 relocatable classrooms serving about 1.4 million students in the United States.

Can you imagine how much energy could be generated if half of these "boxes" had photovoltaic systems installed?

Can you imagine how much energy could be saved if these modulars had energy management systems and were being maintained properly?

Food for thought!

Special Windows for Green Modular Classrooms

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 18:20:00 +0000

Here is a quick video with information about windows for eco friendly "green" modular classrooms. This GreenZone modular classroom was on display at the 2012 GreenBuild conference.

Modular Classroom Design Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Thu, 31 Jan 2013 20:40:00 +0000

This is a helpful article about Modular Classroom Design. If a school or church is going to rent or buy a modular classroom the facility manager, administrators and teachers should be involved - particularly if the structure will be used for a long period of time. Read these six tips and be really prepared when the time comes to talk to a supplier about renting or buying a modular.

Using Modular Classrooms for Daycare Programs

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 12:56:00 +0000

"Our daycare program was growing so fast that we needed to add space to keep up with enrollment so we went online to search for a modular classroom provider. We found that modular classrooms can be purchased or rented with options specifically built in for daycare programs."

Many private schools and churches have daycare programs and using a modular building as the facility is always a good option when space is hard to find....especially in a growing city like Austin, Texas.

Answers About Modular Buildings for Churches and Schools: 48'x40' Used Modular Church School Building in Cal...

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Mon, 03 Sep 2012 14:41:00 +0000

Answers About Modular Buildings for Churches and Schools: California churches and schools in need of classroom or office space have been using modular buildings and prefabricated structures as as temporary and ...

Modular Classroom Buildings - Tips for Buyers

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 16:59:00 +0000

Portable classroom suppliers offer a variety of modular buildings for use as classrooms, daycare centers, churches and office space. If you are searching for a supplier consider the following questions during your initial meetings and calls:

Does the supplier offer leasing, lease purchase and purchase options?
Does the supplier have the resources to provide you with a new, custom designed modular building or a used structure?
Is the supplier willing to make changes to the floor plan to meet your specific occupancy needs?
Can the supplier assist with building permits?
Can the supplier provide services such as delivery, installation, and the assembly of a handicap ramp and or steps for accessibility?

Don’t forget that having a supplier with a proven track record and with some history at the local building and safety department is a huge advantage when it comes to obtaining permits for your modular school project.

School Facilities Cut Energy

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 17:29:00 +0000

Students Cut Energy Use By Up to 17% in National Energy Conservation Challenge

Schools Showcase Energy-Saving Technologies and Positive Behavior Changes

New York, NY – Students across the U.S. are reporting impressive energy savings on their school campuses during the third week of meter readings for the 2012 national Green Cup Challenge® (GCC), with some schools reporting cuts as high as 17%.

"This is extremely positive news for America, which makes up just 5% of the world's population but consumes 24% of the world's energy," says Peg Watson, Founder and President of the Green Schools Alliance (GSA). The GSA sponsors the GCC, which is now in its fifth year; 116 GCC schools in 22 states are competing to reduce their electricity consumption during peak winter energy usage, January 18 to February 15.

Preventable energy waste costs Americans hundreds of billions of dollars a year and studies have shown that most Americans continue to live in denial about their energy consumption. But students are turning that around.

"From California to Florida, students and school campuses are modeling technologies and behaviors that save energy, money and the environment during the GCC and beyond," says GCC Program Director Katy Perry.

Energy-saving strategies range from the simple and low-tech to the high-tech.

The Latin School of Chicago has seen an 8.2% reduction in its energy consumption so far. The independent K-12 school has quietly made big investments in renewable energy and campus-wide efficiencies that are paying off in many ways, thanks in large part to Peter Brown, the school's Director of Facilities and Operations.

"We're seeing a savings of around $45,000 per year for our campus," says Brown, who last year installed solar PV panels on Latin's Middle School building, along with a new bird friendly wind turbine and a solar hot water heating system. The Upper School's roof went solar in 2009. All lights in the Middle School were retrofitted with motion sensors and dimmable ballasts. AV management software shuts down systems at night, and environmental monitoring software tracks and promotes awareness about sustainability.

With the annual cost savings, Brown expects to see a return on Latin's investments in about ten years; but their value is not just economic. A public website page is tracking how many pounds of carbon dioxide the school has kept out of the atmosphere by using solar energy, and the educational opportunities surrounding these choices are infinite.

"By making ethical decisions about how we use energy throughout our facilities, we can use our campus as a classroom for our students," says Brown.

Indeed, Latin's two green roofs - atop the Middle School (5,500 sq. ft.) and the Upper School (1,200 sq. ft.) – have become virtual science and engineering laboratories. On a hot day, using infrared thermometers, students have observed that the temperature on a traditional roof is often 30 degrees Fahrenheit higher than a green roof. "This is a great opportunity for students to see how a green roof can help reduce cooling costs," says Brown.

Saint Paul's, an independent Pre-K – 8 school in Clearwater, Florida has been using air conditioning (A/C) instead of heat this winter, due to unusually warm temperatures. But it has nonetheless managed to reduce its electricity consumption by 17% during the GCC. A/Cs have been set at 74° F, up from 72° F. Since the last GCC, Dean Ledee, Saint Paul's Director of Facilities and a member of the staff Green Team, says he has replaced up to six old A/C units with more efficient Energy Star models. And as exterior lights blew out, he replaced them with LEDs. "Despite the recent 3% electricity rate increase, we haven't felt it," says Ledee, who gives credit to the teachers and students for being conscious about their electricity use. "We've really focused on turning lights off when we leave a room, setting our computers to sleep mode, and using the GCC as an opportunity for people to focus on their habits," says Karen Zilhaver, Technology instructor and Green Team member. Zilhaver says that, over the years, Saint Pauls's staff has educated students about why it's important to save energy, and resources more generally. "It serves them well at school and in the world to be good environmental stewards."

At the New Roads School in Santa Monica, California, students and staff also achieved reductions of 17%. "We brought natural light into the computer classroom by cutting a big skylight into a false ceiling and we haven't turned the lights on in the room since," says Tyrone Sandaal, the High School's Co-Director. Sandaal said students and staff have been going room by room controlling thermostats, shutting off computer monitors, space heaters, and lamps. They installed special plates on light switches outside of seven modular buildings to prevent lights from being turned on unnecessarily during the day, and put night lights on timers. "What we found going into the GCC is that we were very effective in our campaign last year, so it was much easier for us to do what we needed to do this year. It's about creating habits." In the future, Sandaal hopes to create a GCC home version. "Parents and families would compete with each other to create percentage reductions at home, and report the results in school," he says.

With just one week to go for the national GCC and popular GCC video contest (both end on February 15^th) schools are scrambling for last-minute reductions and the coveted first place, posting web and Twitter updates along the way.

"National winners will be announced in a couple of weeks, though all GCC schools are winners in our book," says Perry.

New York City and Chicago public schools launch their own GCC on March 2^nd.

CONTACT: Katy Perry, 860-578-0174, Emily Fano, 917-301-8830

If you would rather not receive future communications from The Green Schools Alliance, let us know by clicking here.
The Green Schools Alliance, c/o Jeffrey A. Smith Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP Worldwide Plaza, 825 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10019 United States

School Safety and Security - Window Safety Week

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 18:38:00 +0000

April 3-9: National Window Safety Week

PARKERSBURG, W. VA. – Whether opened or closed, it’s important that window safety be a top priority for every family in America. During National Window Safety Week, April 3-9, 2011, the experts at Simonton Windows® recommend consumers always observe safe window practices in their homes.

Families with small children should pay special attention to windows and patio doors. Start with practicing home emergency fire drills. Show them the fastest safety route to the outside and make certain children know under what circumstances to use a window to exit a home. Since small children tend to “hide” from fire, make sure they understand how important it is to safely and quickly exit the home should a fire occur.

“If a door is hot to the touch or not safe to exit through during a fire, then both children and adults should exit through an open window,” says Gary Pember, vice president of marketing for Simonton Windows. “Unless it is absolutely necessary, do not to break the window glass. Doing so could cause injury. During family safety drills, show children how to operate windows and how to use chain escape ladders that should be kept in all bedrooms located above ground level. Also establish a designated meeting place for the family outside the home.”

Along with practicing for emergency situations, daily window safety can be achieved by doing the following:

- When windows are opened for ventilation, only open what young children cannot reach, such as the top portion of a Double Hung window.

- Keep furniture (including cribs), or anything children can climb, away from windows.

- Remember the primary purpose of a window screen is to keep insects outside. Never push on screens, as they will not support the weight of a child or family pet.

- Lock windows when not in use to protect against intruders and make it more difficult for curious young children to open windows.

- Do not paint or nail windows shut. Every window in the home that is designed to be opened should be operational in case of an emergency.

- Refrain from nailing or attaching decorative lights to the interior or exterior of window frames.

- Plant shrubs or grass, and place “soft landscaping” like bark or mulch, directly underneath windows to help lessen the impact should someone accidently fall out of a window.

- Make absolutely sure your home has windows with clear openings that meet egress requirements in the living spaces as required by your state and local building codes. Egress windows provide emergency exits in your home. Make sure your home has the proper amount of egress windows in every room used as a bedroom and on any floor or basement level with habitable living space.

Safely Handling Broken Glass

Whether a stray soft ball or a ladder that slips and goes through a window, it’s important to know in advance how to handle broken window glass safely. Pember offers these important and useful safety tips for handling broken window glass:

Tip #1– Do not pick up broken pieces of glass with your bare hands. Put on heavy leather or safety gloves before handling glass pieces and try to sweep or vacuum up as much of the broken glass as possible without touching it.

Tip #2 – Never walk in bare feet around broken glass. Put on closed-toe shoes before starting any cleanup efforts involving glass.

Tip #3 – Make certain children and pets are kept outside the area where the broken glass is located before beginning a cleanup project.

Tip #4 – If a window breaks, make sure to check for broken glass inside the home, within the frame of the window and outside the window area on the ground.

Tip #5 – To clean up small particles of glass, use several thicknesses of wet paper towels and then discard safely. Cloth napkins, cloth towels, sponges or ordinary mops should not be used for clean up because they can harbor tiny glass particles.

Tip #6- To dispose of glass, carefully put it in a durable container (such as a sturdy box or plastic container) and label “broken glass.” Do not dispose of glass shards in plastic bags.

Tip #7 – If a window is broken, do not try to “knock out” remaining glass in the frame. Safely remove the loose and fallen pieces of glass and then contact a professional to repair or replace the window.

Tip #8 – Immediately post a warning sign and/or secure the area where there is broken glass until it can be cleaned up successfully.

Tip #9 - If your entire window glass is broken out, cover the window to help prevent additional accidents or inclement weather from coming into the home. Usually you can tape cardboard over the opening or heavy plastic as a temporary fix.

Tip #10 - If the glass in your window gets broken, do not replace it yourself. Some windows have insulating glass units that contain harmless Argon gas that helps increase in the window’s energy efficiency. A replacement unit should be ordered and installed by a professional that perfectly matches the original window.

Celebrating its 65^thyear of quality manufacturing operations in 2011, Simonton Windows produces ENERGY STAR® qualified replacement and new construction windows and doors, including a line of impact-resistant products. Simonton ranked “Highest in Builder and Remodeler Satisfaction among Residential Window and Patio Door Manufacturers” in the J.D. Power and Associates 2010, 2009, 2008 Builder and Remodeler Residential Window and Patio Door Satisfaction Study^SM. The company also ranked “Highest in Customer Satisfaction among Residential Window and Patio Door Manufacturers” in the J.D. Power and Associates 2010 Windows and Patio Doors Satisfaction Study^SM.

Simonton was also ranked #1 in quality in the 2009, 2007, 2002 and 1998 Brand Use Studies sponsored by Builder magazine and has won three Best In Class Awards currently administered by LBM Journal Research Institute.

Founded in 1946, Simonton’s hallmark has been to deliver the industry’s shortest, most dependable lead-times. Part of the home and security business of Fortune Brands, Inc. (NYSE: FO), Simonton delivers award-recognized products nationwide to key markets throughout the 48 continental United States. Simonton is a founding sponsor of The Weather Museum and a supporter of Homes for Our Troops. For information, call (800) SIMONTON (1-800-746-6686) or visit www.simonton.com.

###

PHOTOGRAPHY: Media members may visit “media.simonton.com” (use password “media”) for access to hundreds of high resolution images.

SIMONTON ON-LINE NEWS ROOM: http://news.simonton.com/

ENERGY STAR is a government program that helps consumers protect the environment through superior energy efficiency and is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

For more window safety tips, call 1-800-SIMONTON to request a free copy of the easy-to-read, eight-page booklet, “A few things to think about when thinking about your home.”

If you would rather not receive future communications from Ziprik Consulting, let us know by clicking here.
Ziprik Consulting, 511 Fox Hollow Lane, Mills RIver, NC 28759 United States

This blog post was approved by www.SchoolFacilities.com.

FW: 21 New Seminole County Classrooms Installed

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 04:44:00 +0000

NEWS -- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                   Aug. 13, 2008

CONTACTS:    Royal Concrete Concepts
John Albert, Vice President                          Wendy Elwell, Director of Marketing
561-689-5395 x 3007, 561-719-6628           941-544-4940

21 New Classrooms Installed at Seminole Schools Over Summer Break

LAKE MARY, Fla. - An innovation in concrete construction methods is creating greener schools with more hurricane protection and they go up so fast that entire schools can be built during a summer break.

Royal Concrete Concepts (RCC), a manufacturer of patented pre-fabricated concrete buildings, worked for Seminole Schools to remove 11 portables and then build 21 brand new state-of-the-art classrooms for five elementary schools. Bentley, Hamilton, Spring Lake and Keeth elementary schools each received an additional four classrooms while Partin Elementary received five all between June 16 and Aug. 11.

"We offer a need not currently met in the marketplace for sustainable, economical buildings designed and built in one-third the time," said John Albert, Vice President of RCC. He explained, "These buildings last twice as long at an overall lower cost."

The classrooms were made at RCC's assembly line in Okeechobee and then trucked 95% complete, including electrical wiring, plumbing and interior finishes such as white boards, tile floors and cabinets, to the schools. The RCC process is an inherently more sustainable approach to making buildings because the process is more precise and less wasteful than traditional brick-and-mortar construction. The buildings withstand Category 5 hurricane winds. The buildings save school districts 20 percent to 30 percent in initial costs, and have minimal maintenance bills and lower energy usage. They are all extremely quiet; mold, mildew and termite resistant; and fire resistant.

"The number of green buildings is expected to increase rapidly in the coming decades," according to Paul Nutcher, an expert in the LEED green rating systems. "As green buildings become the minimum standard in local building codes, companies such as RCC already using this approach are ahead of the game."

Wally Sanger, President and owner of Royal Concrete Concepts said, "With today's limited budgets and environment focus, school boards must be prudent with their constituents' money and good stewards of the earth. We believe applying the Henry Ford principles to building schools helps school districts achieve these goals."

For photos of classroom construction, contact thomas@greenappleconsult.com

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High Performance Schools Criteria

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Fri, 16 May 2008 18:57:00 +0000

Notice of CHPS High Performance School Criteria 2009 Edition 45-Day Public Review

The Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHPS) has provided school districts and their design teams with tools for building a new generation of high performance schools since 2000. At the heart of the CHPS program is the CHPS Criteria, Volume III of the CHPS Best Practices Manual, which provides a stringent and comprehensive standard for high performance schools. The Criteria is updated every three years, concurrent with the updates to California’s Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24). The 2009 Edition of the Criteria will soon be out for public review and CHPS is seeking public comment on the updated Criteria. The drafts for public comment will be available at this address on the CHPS website in early June 2008: http://www.chps.net/review/2009edition. The comment period is forty-five days.

Some of the exciting developments for the 2009 Criteria include new credits for designing for deconstruction and adaptability; siting for school gardens; net-zero energy schools; providing safe routes to schools; innovative water management strategies; limits on mercury and other health hazards; and life-cycle assessment of building materials.

For more information on CHPS and the programs available to schools and design professionals, visit: www.chps.net.

School HVAC Statistics

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 06:49:00 +0000

In permanent school buildings, heating and air conditioning were the most frequently reported interferences, with less than half of schools reporting that air conditioning did not interfere at all with instruction. Air conditioning interfered to a moderate or major extent in permanent buildings in 16 percent of schools; heating interfered to a moderate or major extent in 13 percent of schools. Schools reported less severe interference from heating and air conditioning in portable buildings, with 11 percent of schools reporting moderate to major interference from air conditionting, and 9 percent reporting the same from heating.

SOURCE: U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics. (2007). Public School Principals Report on Their School Facilities: Fall 2005 (NCES 2007-007).

Are Smaller Schools Better?

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 03:02:00 +0000

Is designing a smaller school a good idea in comparison to a larger one?

Can the quality of a students education improve if the size of their school is reduced?

Can building a smaller school increase efficiencies in facility management tasks?

Read Frank Hill's latest article about building smaller schools and share your comments with us.

School Crime Statistics

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 03:31:00 +0000

The percentage of public schools experiencing one or more violent incidents increased between 1999–2000 and 2003–04 from 71 to 81 percent. In 2003–04, 18 percent of schools experienced one or more serious violent incidents, 46 percent experienced one or more thefts, and 64 percent experienced another type of crime. Forty-four percent of public schools reported at least one violent incident to police, 13 percent reported at least one serious violent incident to police, 31 percent reported at least one theft to police, and 50 percent reported one of the other specified crimes to police.

SOURCE: U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics. (2006). Indicators of School Crime and Safety, 2006

What is a Refuge Sign?

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 17:15:00 +0000

Refuge signs have been a requirement in buildings for years and are usually listed on the evacuation map if its part of the fire department regulations for a facility.

Area of Refuge signs are typically in English but are available in bilingual text with international icons of fire and / accessibility.

Additional signs are often required with directional arrows showing the way to the Area of Refuge..

The signs can be in standard aluminum or photo luminescent materials that absorb light in day and glow at night as well as reflective local regulations specify the size and materials.

The signs are typically mounted above head height for easy viewing when a group is present. They are part of most Life Safety Programs and required in most facilities with 50 or more occupants and visitors.

For more information on wayfinding and emergency signage visit SchoolFacilities.com.

Saving Money on Acoustical Ceilings

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 18:51:00 +0000

Today's school facility maintenance should include the cleaning of the acoustical ceiling tile instead of replacement or worse yet, painting. Why you ask, because just like carpets, acoustical ceiling tile accumulate dirt, grease, dust, odors and other unsanitary pollutants which bond themselves to the acoustical ceilings through the thermal air currents causing the ceiling to become stained, unpleasant to the eye, and unhealthy if left untreated. Today these dirt's, grease and other unsanitary pollutants can be removed using a professional acoustical ceiling cleaner and cleaning techniques. Cleaning saves you money over the cost of replacement and will leave your ceiling looking like new again. Just think about it, you don't replace your carpet when it gets dirty, you clean it. Today that holds true for acoustical ceilings as well.

Read the complete article on SchoolFacilities.com here>

Portable Classrooms & Public Schools

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 18:10:00 +0000

According to a survey of Public School Principals conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics and published in 2007, 37% of all public schools use portable buildings, also known as modular classrooms, relocatables and trailers, to handle overenrollment and other space requirements.

The schools with the greatest use of portable buildings were as follows:

Large schools (52 percent had portables, compared with 27 and 36 percent of other schools);
City schools (49 percent versus 28 and 39 percent in the other two locales);
Schools in the West or Southeast (62 percent and 41 percent, respectively, compared with 17 and 20 percent in the other two regions); and
Schools with high minority enrollment (53 percent among schools where 50 percent or more were minorities, compared with 19 to 42 percent in other schools) (table 3).

Visit www.schoolfacilities.com for more education statistics, facility products and articles about facility management.