Describes how a new generation of X-ray-like vision--the patented INFRARED2k--provides roof-condition reports that help extend roof life, conserve energy, and survey for mold-supporting environments, thereby improving indoor air quality. (EV)

Describes the pros and cons of three broad categories of hard flooring: terrazzo, architectural finishes, and resilient flooring. Includes a sidebar on floor maintenance. (EV)

Discusses the poor maintenance of school facilities from years of under-funding, the sheer volume of tasks, and the natural preference to fund growth and development rather than maintenance. Describes the importance of preventive maintenance and skilled staff. Includes a description of facility maintenance resources. (EV)

Discusses issues involved in outsourcing school maintenance and custodial services. There are many advantages to this approach, but it has definite drawbacks. In many instances, a combination of contract and employee services works well. (SLD)

Describes how the LaPorte Independent School District in Texas turned to ultraviolent light devices installed within the HVAC system to combat mold and fungus after conventional approaches failed. Describes the additional benefits of energy savings from the system. (EV)

Provides an overview of what maintenance personnel should know about a school's technological equipment and infrastructure in order to help them provide needed services. Concluding comments address what maintenance can do to help network personnel in making equipment function optimally. (GR)

Discusses maintenance scheduling in schools that are being used year-round for various purposes. Rethinking maintenance work beyond the traditional summer vacation is described as are school district budgeting for year-round maintenance scheduling and the need for cooperative planning. (GR)

Offers a primer on toxic mold and its removal, warning against ignorant or unethical mold remediation companies and offering five considerations (checking references, considering the big picture, sampling more than the air, considering release, and considering the source) when hiring such services. (EV)

Describes the effects of improperly insulated chilled water distribution systems on mold and mildew in occupied buildings, its health risks, prevention, economic impact, and solution. (EV)

Explains that due to the complexity of today's custodial work, extensive education and training is required. This includes basic commercial/industrial cleaning techniques; hygiene procedures; asbestos awareness; management, scheduling, and budgeting; chemical usage; and calculating operations efficiency. Details the in-depth custodial training of…

Explains that schools must be maintained to ensure children have a good environment in which to learn and explores the following three components affecting a learning environment: site improvements; building shell; and interior spaces and systems. A building assessment form is included. (GR)

Discusses computer software that can help school maintenance department cut their costs. The use of a maintenance management system is examined along with examples of how these systems can actually operating costs. (GR)

Discusses the essential role played by the school custodian in providing a clean and healthy environment. Details various floor cleaning methods and materials. (EV)

When planning for a new facility, consideration of maintenance needs is crucial to successful design. Designing for maintenance needs involves considering such factors as the durability of materials used, the cost and lifecycle of the materials, and the flexibility of the maintenance staff. Stresses the importance of including key members of the…

Describes how a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS), a centralized maintenance operations database that facilitates work order procedures and staff directives, can help individual school campuses and school districts to manage maintenance. Presents the benefits of CMMS and things to consider in CMMS selection. (EV)