Tag Archive for: cost-effective

How HDPE Partitions Can Save You Money

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When it comes to managing your facility—whether it’s a school, an office building, or even a store—you’re probably trying to find ways to cut costs and save money. One of the costliest endeavors that all facility managers face is maintenance. The time and money that goes into constant maintenance can certainly add up, but there has to be an easier way that can lower your costs and save you money on your facility.

One of the best ways to combat costly maintenance is by utilizing the best materials around that will last for years, stand up to the elements, and result in very low maintenance. One such material is HDPE plastic, which can be used as toilet partitions in your facility’s restrooms.

Here are a few ways that these HDPE partitions can save you money with your facility and maintenance costs.

HDPE: The Superior Partition

You may not really take the time to consider the variety of materials that can be used as toilet partitions. However, reviewing all of your options can allow you to make the best choice for your facility. Most toilet partitions are made from plastic with an inner core made from kraft paper or cardboard. Materials like Phenolic, Baked Enamel, and Plastic Laminate may look nice in your restroom, but they may be left vulnerable to the moisture and humidity in your restroom. The inner core will absorb the moisture, and over time, it’ll sprout mold, leading to a pungent odor and a substantial problem to solve.

The smell of mold is never a welcoming sign when entering a commercial restroom. However, utilizing HDPE can actually combat this problem because it’s a solid plastic. There’s no inner core made of paper or cardboard. Moisture and humidity will not seep into the inside of your HDPE partition, so you can rest easy knowing that you’re using the best material possible for your toilet partitions.

Cutting Costs on Maintenance & Partition Replacement

When mold has made its way into the inner core of a toilet partition, there’s no going back. The partition is ruined, and it needs to be replaced. However, due to the constant presence of moisture, you’ll end up replacing partitions frequently. HDPE is a quick and easy fix that will outlast other materials.

Other factors, like aesthetic damage, can lead to substantial maintenance. Whether the partition is cracked, dented, or even written on in permanent marker, there’s a lot of maintenance that’s costly and time-consuming. HDPE, on the other hand, is a more durable option. It won’t show surface damage through scratches or dents. It won’t even absorb any spray paint or marker, so you can forgo a paint job to cover up someone’s unwanted artwork.

A Material That Lasts

Due to the ability to stand up to common issues facing your restroom, HDPE partitions are the preferred choice for facility managers who are looking for a material that they can rely on. Since HDPE is a solid and durable plastic, it can endure a lot more than the average toilet partition. It’s even covered by warranty for up to 25 years. So, if you’re looking for a long-lasting solution to combat costly maintenance, HDPE is certainly a huge step in the right direction.

Would you like to learn more about how HDPE plastic toilet partitions can actually save you time and money on maintenance? Download our free eBook, Choosing Bathroom Materials, from your friends at Scranton Products.

 

 

Reduce Your School’s Energy Consumption in 4 Easy Steps

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More often than not, school facility managers are trying to find ways to cut costs. This is particularly important with energy consumption, not only because energy has a hefty price attached to it, but there are many ways to reduce the costs that are more green and eco-friendly.What Makes HDPE Sustainable

To help you get started on coming up with an action plan to cut costs, here are 4 easy steps to help you reduce your school’s energy consumption.

Let There Be LED & Natural Light

Homeowners know that one of the major energy consumers in their household is light bulbs, so to combat the energy bill, they simply leave the lights off in rooms they aren’t using. This isn’t the case with a school because, ostensibly, every room is in use. However, implementing LED light bulbs instead of fluorescent or incandescent bulbs can greatly reduce the amount of energy that your school uses.

Not only should you implement the energy-saving LED lights in your school, but you can always get rid of unnecessary fixtures. Most notably, interior lighting fixtures that are near a window are technically not needed, and your school and energy bill can certainly benefit from utilizing as much natural light as possible.

Cut Down on the Air Conditioning

Who doesn’t like fresh air? Cutting down on the air conditioning can have positive benefits for your school’s energy consumption. When the weather is particularly beautiful, don’t be afraid to turn off the air and open the windows. This can help keep your school at a reasonable temperature without having to use your air conditioning system. By utilizing fresh air and keeping your air conditioning off, you’ll cut costs on your energy bill while reducing harmful emissions.

Be Mindful of Appliances & Devices

After the school day is over and the occupants have gone home, be sure to do a thorough check throughout the building for any electrical appliances that are still on. While appliances like the refrigerator should remain on, other equipment shouldn’t, such as computers. Leaving computers on all night not only consumes a decent amount of energy but also wastes it. Be sure the turn off all classroom computers before leaving the school to help save on energy costs.Earth Tone Inspiration

Generate Your Own Energy

One of the best ways to save on energy costs is simply to create your own energy. Solar panels have been widely used in school facilities across the country with fantastic results. Installing solar panels on the roof or property of your school can help to reduce the cost of energy consumption. Implementing solar energy at your school, you’ll see a noticeable drop in costs and improve your school’s image as being forward thinking, environmentally conscious and, of course, sustainable.

Were these 4 steps on reducing your school’s energy consumption helpful? Are you looking for more ways to make your school more eco-friendly? Download the Sustainable Building Products: How to Make Your Facility Eco-Friendly from Top to Bottom from your friends at Scranton Products.

A Clean School Promotes Student Success

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Did you know that having a clean school can yield positive effects? We’re not just talking about having a nice-looking school. Actually, a clean and sanitary learning environment can positively affect a student’s ability to succeed in their educational endeavors. There have been numerous studies that highlight the strong correlation between a sparkling school and the achievements of the students. We’ll list some of the biggest benefits and help you come up with an action plan to keep your school spotless, so the students can rise to the top with their academics.

Fewer Absences

One of the major benefits to having a clean school is the reduction of the spread of germs. Less germs equals less absences. Through routine cleaning, you’ll be able to tackle the danger zones where diseases spread. By cutting down on the germs and the inevitable sick days, classrooms will be filled with students who are healthy and eager to learn.

Happier & More Productive Teachers

A teacher’s demeanor and attitude can have a huge effect on the student’s abilities. Teachers who educate in a dirty classroom are less inclined to put 100% into their lessons. Their filthy surroundings can have a huge effect on their drive and passion to educate. Teachers who are working in a clean classroom will be more positive and happy when they come into work. Their positive demeanor will reflect in their lessons, and students will be more eager to pay attention and participate in what they’re learning.

Improved School Pride

A student won’t take a lot of pride in a dilapidated school. However, when they actually look forward to going to school, they’ll be more engaged with their studies and active in classroom participation. Not to mention, they’ll even work to help keep the school cleaner by properly disposing of their trash and recyclables.

Getting an Action Plan Together

While it’s important to ensure your school is as clean as possible, you’re probably worrying about the maintenance costs. Sure, more involved cleaning will cause a rise in your costs. However, utilizing the right materials can help you reduce the cost of maintenance and the man hours it requires.

Utilize HDPE Plastic

Schools across the country have been implementing HDPE plastic into their facilities and they’ve seen great results. This versatile material can be used for bathroom stalls, partitions, and vanities. Considering that your school’s restroom can be a hotbed of germs if not routinely cleaned, implementing HDPE materials can help reduce the spread. HDPE stalls, partitions, and vanities won’t absorb the moisture that’s present in your restroom, which will ward off the threat of mold, mildew, and unpleasant bathroom odors.School Cleaning Checklist

HDPE plastic can also be used as lockers. They provide a durable and secure structure that will not only store materials properly, but they’re less costly when it comes to maintenance, compared to metal lockers. They don’t require any fresh coats of paint, they won’t rust, and they won’t dent.

Install More Rugs

Rugs can be very effective at preventing the spread of germs. Most germs are brought into your school from foot traffic, so having rugs located around each entrance can reduce the amount of germs coming into your school. It’s a good practice to have rugs on both the exterior and interior of entranceways, so you can be twice as effective at catching those germs before they spread into your school.

Invest in Green Cleaning Materials

No one enjoys the stagnant smell of industrial cleaning products, no matter how effective they are. Consider using green cleaning products that will help you keep your school clean and smelling fresh without having to use harsh chemicals. Using heavy-duty cleaning chemicals may do the job, but they could have detrimental health effects and cause respiratory problems.

These were just a few helpful tips that will get you on your way to creating a safe and clean learning environment. Do you need some more tips on how to effectively clean your school to help promote student success? Check out this free eBook, The Ultimate Guide for Facility Maintenance & Property Solutions, from your friends at Scranton Products.

Lockers That Can Save Your School Money

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When you’re the facility manager for a school, it’s imperative that you not only keep up with the necessary maintenance, but also find ways to save money for the school. Routine maintenance can end up costing your school a lot, and with the man hours put into thorough and routine maintenance, finding a way to cut down on costs isn’t always the easiest thing to do. However, if you’re planning out a renovation process, there are some things you can do to save yourself time and money on maintenance, and it simply revolves around choosing the right lockers for your school.

The Problem with Metal Lockers

Metal lockers have been the standard for schools for way too long. Sure, they’re stable and they can be painted to match the décor, however, they do require a ton of maintenance throughout the years. Most notably, with scratches and dents that are unsightly and can reduce the secure structure of the locker. Students don’t necessarily treat their lockers gently, and many prefer to slam the locker shut as opposed to lightly closing them. Over time, this can result in surface damage, chipped paint, structural damage—not to mention the loud irritable noise.

When it comes time for maintenance, each locker may require special attention, depending on their appearance and any damage. If there’s chipped paint, you’ll have to add a fresh coat. If there’s any major dents or intrusions, the locker will most likely have to be replaced. If there’s enough damaged lockers, the costs of replacement could be pretty substantial.

Issues Facing Locker Rooms

Lockers that are located in your school’s locker room are susceptible to even more damage because of the humidity and moisture that’s a constant presence. It’s no mystery that moisture on metal results in rust. Rust can be removed with a variety of household solutions, but given the amount of lockers, this process can be time-consuming. The man hours spent scrubbing each individual locker can add up, and detract from some more pressing maintenance issues.

The Solution is HDPE Lockers

HDPE (high-density polyethylene) plastic lockers have been introduced to a few educational facilities across the nation and have yielded fantastic results. They provide a durable storage compartment for students. They’re impact-resistant, so the students preferred method of closing their lockers won’t result in any surface damage. Not to mention, but they’re also much quieter than metal. They can stand up to humidity and moisture without rusting, along with resisting moisture absorption and sprouting mold. The best part about HDPE lockers is that they can last for a long time without having to be replaced.

Cutting Costs on Maintenance

One of the main reasons that HDPE lockers have made a major impact in schools is because they’re low maintenance. They don’t require any fresh coats of paint, and they’re resistant to graffiti, scratches, and dents. The only real maintenance they require is a light cleaning. Over time, you’ll notice that the cost of maintenance on these lockers is much lower when compared to metal lockers and the more involved maintenance that they normally require. Essentially, these HDPE lockers can save your school money on maintenance.

Want to learn more about HDPE lockers and the many benefits to implementing them into your school? Download The Ultimate Guide to HDPE Plastic Lockers from your friends at Scranton Products. This eBook can prepare you to make the right decision towards your school’s lockers and cut the cost on maintenance.

Middle School Lockers: Durable, Easy-to-Clean, & Cost-Effective HDPE

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When it comes to picking out the right lockers for your middle school or junior high, you’ll want to choose the right material that can handle a few hits, as well as something that’s not going to cost you a lot on maintenance. There are a few materials out there that facility managers have been using for years, however, there are better options out there, like HDPE plastic. We’re going to list a few reasons why you should consider choosing HDPE plastic for your middle school lockers.

HDPE Locker Durability

Middle school is when most students experience lockers for the first time. They’ve since upgraded from cubbies and desks with storage space. Now it’s time for them to store their materials in a locker, so choosing the right material can go a long way. Metal was always the standard material that was used for lockers, given its strong frame and light weight. However, metal lockers can be subject to a variety of damage and cosmetic issues.

Metal lockers can take a few hits, sure, but after constant slamming, there’s going to be signs of wear. The metal can easily be dented and scratched, but if a student gets the idea of marking the lockers with graffiti, the fresh paint and the man hours are going to cost you. HDPE can be a huge benefit in this situation because it’s a highly durable material that can take a few hits without resulting in damage. It also doesn’t need to be painted because it’s graffiti-resistant.

Easy to Clean HDPE

Cleaning all the lockers in your facility is never a fun experience. Not only are there a ton of lockers to clean, but the process may vary depending on the condition of the metal lockers. If there’s spray paint or even rust, you’ll have to invest in paint for the locker. But while traditional metal lockers can be very time consuming when it comes to maintenance, HDPE provides a simple and easy cleaning experience.

Due to the solid plastic construction, its overall appearance should remain untarnished by dents or scratches, which saves you from having to replace the locker. HDPE doesn’t require any sort of repainting or touch ups, and all HDPE lockers need is a light cleaning every now and then.

Cost-Effective HDPE

HDPE can be an investment…but after 2 years it is typically less expensive than other locker materials, such as metal, due to requiring less maintenance and no painting. HDPE is a cost-effective material that will allow you to save money and time when it comes to maintenance. It’s also a long-lasting material, so you won’t be looking at any costly replacements in the near future, and you’ll be able to keep the same lockers for years to come.

Want to learn more before you make the jump to HDPE lockers? Check out this free eBook, The Ultimate Guide to HDPE Plastic Lockers, from your friends at Scranton Products.

School Lockers for Sale: Cost Effective & Durable School Lockers

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When it’s time to replace your school’s lockers, there are a few factors that you need to consider. Low cost and highly durable lockers should be at the top of your list. But are you making the right choice with your lockers?

While metal lockers have been the gold standard for generations to keep their books and bags tucked away during the school day, it’s certainly time for a change. You can easily find cost effective and durable school lockersfor sale that are improved upon the standard metal and steel lockers.

Find a dealer near you!

A Highly Durable Replacement

When you’re looking for a cost effective replacement, don’t continue to spend your money on the same metal lockers. Instead, invest in a newer material like HDPE (high-density polyethylene). This solid plastic has been used for lockers in schools across the country with positive results. There are many factors that make HDPE a more versatile and cost effective material. The number one being that they’re low maintenance when compared to metal lockers.

Metal lockers may seem durable, but their thin surface makes them susceptible to dents and scratches. HDPE and its solid plastic design is actually resistant to dents, scratches, and even graffiti. When graffiti appears on a metal locker surface, the locker needs to be repainted, resulting in the cost of paint and the risk of VOC (volatile organic compounds) emissions in the air. HDPE, however, doesn’t need to be repainted. The graffiti can simply be wiped away without you having to worry about the cost of paint or the harmful chemicals seeping into the air.

Smart & Sustainable

Choosing a locker isn’t only about choosing the best material for the job, but also choosing a material that’s going to last for a long time. Picking a sustainable material like HDPE will have many benefits, one of which is lasting for the years. Going with low cost and low maintenance lockers is the smart move.

Metal lockers have too many vulnerabilities to last the years. Metal lockers require too much maintenance, and when they’re in an actual locker room, they can become rusted. This results in not only costly maintenance, but it’s also meticulous and time-consuming. HDPE just needs routine cleaning throughout their lifespan.

The Benefits of Choosing HDPE Lockers

When you opt for HDPE lockers over the traditional metal, you’ll notice the differences right away. Not only will you save time and money on maintenance, but you’ll also pick up on the fact that HDPE lockers are much quieter than metal lockers. The loud metal slam will be a thing of the past, and you’ll be happy to know that your lockers are strong, durable, and they’ll last for years, so you don’t have to worry about having them replaced anytime soon.

Want to learn more about HDPE lockers? Download The Ultimate Guide to HDPE Plastic LockerseBook. You can even find out where to get HDPE lockers for sale by contacting us at Scranton Products.

Why HDPE Is a Superior Material

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HDPE (high-density polyethylene) is a durable solid plastic that has a variety of applications. Most notably, HDPE is used for bathroom partitions and stalls, commercial lockers and student lockers within educational facilities. Many businesses and schools have implemented HDPE materials with amazing results. So, why is HDPE being considered a super material for facilities?

Durability

As a facility manager, when it comes time for remodeling and renovations, you need to think ahead. Choosing a highly durable material has its advantages because you want the material lasting throughout the years without having to pay a fortune for replacements. HDPE has proven to be a stronger, more stable material than most plastics, wood, and even metal. It’s impact-resistant, so it can stand up to the pressures and elements of your facility.

When you choose HDPE, you no longer have to worry about any exterior damages. HDPE won’t scratch or dent, so you don’t have to have replacements on-hand. You don’t even have to worry about graffiti, because with HDPE, it can be easily wiped away.

Improving Air Quality

One of the main reasons why HDPE materials are utilized as restroom stalls is because it not only provides security and privacy, but it can also help keep the air quality high. Restrooms are a hotbed of moisture and humidity. Most plastic partitions have a kraft paper or cardboard core that can become moist, and eventually will sprout mold. Mold will not only lower the air quality, but it’ll result in a pungent odor that won’t be corrected with air fresheners.

When standard plastic partitions have mold sprouting inside of them, it’s too late, and they’ll have to be replaced in order to get rid of the mold. HDPE, on the other hand, resists mold growth because of its solid plastic construction. Because mold can’t grow in HDPE partitions, your air quality won’t drop, and you won’t have to replace your partitions anytime soon.

Low Maintenance

One phrase that facility managers love to hear is “low maintenance.” HDPE plastic doesn’t require a lot of upkeep. Because it’s a highly durable material, it doesn’t get the normal wear and tear that most materials get. In fact, it can outlast most plastics and won’t rust like metal. It doesn’t even require any fresh coats of paint because of its homogenous coloring. All that HDPE requires is a light cleaning every now and again.

Sustainability

Another major benefit to HDPE is that it’s made from 100% post-consumer recycled material. They’re even recyclable themselves. You can effectively take your facility in a greener, more eco-friendly direction by installing HDPE lockers and partitions. Because it doesn’t require new coats of paint, you greatly reduce the risk of VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions in the air, which can reduce the quality and have a negative effect on occupant health.

 

To learn more about why HDPE is a superior material, download our FREE eBook, The Ultimate Guide to HDPE Plastic Lockers, or contact us at Scranton Products.

HDPE Toilet Partitions: Everything You Need to Know When Choosing Plastic Partitions

If you’re going through a much-needed renovation of your facility’s restroom, or if you’re planning out a new facility, it’s crucial to choose the right materials to ensure safety and security for the occupants. When it comes to replacing toilet partitions, there are numerous types of material that can be suitable for the job. However, depending on the material you choose, you may have to replace them sooner than later.

What Is HDPE?

HDPE (high-density polyethylene) is a solid plastic material that can be used for a variety of uses. Due to its solid construction, it proves to be highly durable and even resistant to scratches, dents, and impacts. Its homogenous color makes it resistant to graffiti, which is a common scourge with bathroom stalls. HDPE actually has several advantages over other materials that are commonly used with toilet partitions in commercial bathrooms.

Other Toilet Partition Materials

As you’ve probably noticed, not all restrooms are the same, especially when it comes to their partitions and stalls. Most toilet stalls are made from phenolic and plastic laminate, which on the surface can appear to be suitable materials. However, there are a few drawbacks.

Plastic laminate and phenolic aren’t resistant to scratches, dents, and graffiti. But, one of their weakest attributes is the interior core. Due to restroom location, these toilet partitions are subjected to constant exposure to humidity and moisture. Over a brief period of time, their core interior can actually begin to sprout mold. Once mold has taken over the interior, they need to be replaced immediately, because the mold not only reduces air quality, but it can also lead to respiratory issues with your occupants.

Why HDPE Is a Better Pick

One of the major advantages that HDPE has over traditional plastics and laminates is that it has a solid body construction, allowing it to bask in the humidity and moisture without the threat of mold growth. Because it stands up to the elements and mold, it helps keep the air quality in the restroom safe and clean. Other materials would need a costly replacement if the presence of mold is detected.

HDPE is also stronger than the other toilet partition materials. It can take a few hits and still retain its overall aesthetic. During the presence of graffiti, other materials need to be repainted, which results in VOC (volatile organic compounds) emissions, reducing the air quality. Graffiti on HDPE materials can simply be wiped away.

Lower Maintenance Costs

Another major benefit to choosing HDPE over other plastics is that it’s relatively low maintenance. It doesn’t require a fresh coat of paint or any replacement parts. Other plastics go through plenty of wear and tear; not only do they need a lot of upkeep, but sometimes, they need to be replaced entirely. HDPE just needs to be cleaned every once in a while. HDPE toilet partitions are generally low maintenance and worry free.

 

Are you looking to make the jump to HDPE? Check out The Professional’s Guide to Commercial Bathroom Renovations and Remodels or Choosing Bathroom Materials eBooks, courtesy of Scranton Products.