A roof audit reveals both short- and long-term roof problems. A list of roofs that must be replaced, their cost, and a time schedule for replacement will prevent multiple simultaneous failures. (Author/MLF)

A gasoline operated air blower saves time, improves the quality of work, reduces operator fatigue, and costs less to use than a push broom. (Author/MLF)

Formulas for clearer finishes with improved wearing qualities will help schools and universities curb the high cost of maintenance. (Author)

Checklists for planning a summer cleanup of school facilities and for improving the whole custodial operation. (Author/MLF)

Athletic field turf gets little rest, and part of summer cleanup is to plan and schedule maintenance procedures. (Author/MLF)

District custodial costs can be cut without sacrificing quality by adopting team cleaning. A team of trained cleaning specialists performs specific tasks (dusting, vacuuming, and restroom and utility cleaning) systematically, thereby achieving total cleaning with higher productivity and quality. If internal personnel are retrained, contracting out…

Discusses how to deal with the pressures to defer maintenance on campus buildings, including the issue of accelerated cycles of obsolescence, which "stranded" costs to avoid and to accept, and specific strategies to gain control of the physical asset portfolio. (EV)

Describes how, although deferring maintenance can seem like the least painful choice among tough decisions about spending, some colleges have found it a lot more costly in the long run. (EV)

Roof problems arise from faulty design, vandalism, severe weather conditions, and more. Describes how three educational institutions overcame such problems. (MLF)

An annual survey of school maintenance and operations (M & O) funding concludes, among other detailed findings, that budgets continue to shrink in the face of a weak economy--the sixth year of dropping budgets and the smallest level since the survey began. (EV)

A roof system's warranty is an essential detail of which every purchaser should be aware. Addresses different types of warranties offered, what a manufacture warranty covers, and important features all warranties should include. Additionally, benefits of warranties, five common loopholes in warranties, and five guidelines for a purchaser to follow…

The principal is viewed as the one responsible for the opening and occupation of a new school. Lists 17 questions a newly appointed principal needs to have answered. Stresses the importance of operating an efficient and effective maintenance and operations program. (eight references) (MLF)

Discusses the prevention of high roof repair costs by implementing a roof-maintenance program as part of a total building-condition assessment. Assessing roof conditions and establishing a critical priorities list are examined as are the five key elements to properly managing a roof system. Final comments address ways to maintain the…

Discusses the key questions facility managers should ask during the selection process for a facility-maintenance software program. Questions include ease of use, asset modeling capabilities, ease of reconfiguration, and software scaleability. (GR)

Discusses the advantages of placing school handwashing stations in the adjacent hallway in terms of space conservation, traffic management, cost savings, and facility maintenance. Also addressed are issues of privacy, meeting American with Disabilities Act requirements, and reducing vandalism. (GR)