Prioritizing HVAC on Construction Projects

WHIPPANY, N.J. - Nov. 23, 2016 - PRLog -- Here's an all-too-common scenario: a large construction project is proceeding according to its aggressive schedule when it hits a series of snags. MEP work is behind schedule, HVAC systems are not up and running, and various installation work can't begin until building spaces have been properly conditioned to hold a specific temperature and humidity. This is usually when MSC receives the urgent call for help – one that could have been avoided if mechanical and electrical work had been properly prioritized.

It used to be that heating, cooling and humidity control systems were started up when large construction projects were at or near completion, but things have changed. Expansion and contraction can affect architectural finishes if conditions are too hot or cold, or too humid or dry, and most manufacturer installation guidelines and warranties prohibit installation if the space has not been suitably tempered. Likewise, contractors will refuse to install if certain environmental conditions aren't met. Flooring contractors will test concrete surfaces for temperature and moisture before installation to prevent floors from splitting, cracking, lifting, or buckling. Air temperature and humidity are tested before cabinetry, woodwork, and other finishes can go in. IDF and MDF rooms must be clean, finished, dust-free and properly conditioned before sensitive electronic equipment can even be brought into the room. Some project managers will roll the dice and install anyway, paying the price down the line when the inevitable problems lead to finger-pointing, complaints, claims, lawsuits, double the work, and skyrocketing costs.

Mechanical and electrical system installation and startup should be prioritized on almost every new construction project, but the fact is that MEP frequently takes a back seat and only becomes a priority when major delays start piling on and the project timeline is in trouble. The remedy: project schedules must specify hard dates for completion of mechanical and electrical rooms and utilities to ensure that various finishes and electronic equipment can be installed on time and in budget. MSC is glad to help get HVAC systems on line when SOS calls come in, but our clients are better served by preventing these problems to begin with.

About MSC - The Go To Guys

We are a service sub-specialist in the technical intricacies of HVAC, process cooling, and building automation systems in commercial, industrial, and institutional environments. MSC is recognized as the leading industry expert in solving elusive problems and attaining peak performance from clients & mechanical equipment and overall systems.

Located in northern New Jersey, MSC is the only specialized contractor of our kind in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. We are MSCA STAR-qualified, NEBB-certified, fully-licensed in electrical, plumbing and HVAC, and our engineers and technicians are the most knowledgeable in our field.

Mechanical Service Corp.
41 South Jefferson Road
Whippany, NJ 07981
732-884-5000
http://www.mscnj.com