With so many people depending on their services, most banks and credit unions can’t afford to shut down a branch in order to make cosmetic updates to its interior. Luckily, Solidus has mastered the art of occupied renovations using detailed phasing plans. Phasing plans allow for the continued functionality of a branch while it’s under construction, ensuring any inconveniences or disruptions are minimal and short-lived.
Comprehensive Systems Integration
Our phasing plans are designed to balance the ongoing construction activities with the building’s daily operations. These plans integrate seamlessly with all critical systems—including mechanical, sprinkler, plumbing, electrical, and security. We work closely with our clients to map out precisely when and where system modifications will occur so they don’t have to compromise the efficiency of their services.
If one of the phases involves modifications to electrical systems, we make sure this work is scheduled during non-peak hours to prevent service interruptions. Similarly, plumbing work is coordinated to avoid disruptions to restroom access. We understand that even temporary downtime can impact a branch’s operations, so our phasing plans are built with flexibility to address any unforeseen challenges. Plans are presented to clients with detailed illustrations and reports so they can visualize the impact of construction on daily operations.
Protecting Bank Equipment
Solidus’ renovation projects also consider the specific needs of banking equipment, which must remain functional and secure during construction. This includes everything from ATMs, ITMs, and pneumatic tube systems to vaults and teller stations. We ensure that all equipment is safeguarded during each phase, often creating temporary but fully operational setups to ensure that essential services remain available. For instance, we may construct temporary enclosures for ATMs and ITMs that allow customers to access them without being exposed to construction areas.
Security is a top priority and we work closely with branch security teams to establish protocols that ensure the safety of their assets and customers’ privacy while allowing construction to proceed smoothly.
Traffic and Customer Access Control
During a renovation, it’s important to maintain easy and clear access for customers. Our phasing plans incorporate detailed traffic control measures to ensure drive-thru lanes remain open and accessible. If temporary closures are required, signage and routing plans are put in place well in advance to guide customers to alternative entry points without confusion or frustration.
Inside the branch, we prioritize customer safety and comfort. We establish clear pathways around work zones, maintain clear signage, and control the flow of foot traffic. Solidus ensures that barriers, noise, or construction activities do not hinder operations, whether the work is happening in the lobby, back offices, or customer service areas. Furthermore, we schedule certain disruptive tasks, such as loud demolition or heavy equipment operations, outside peak hours to ensure minimal impact on customer experience.
Dust Control and Environmental Quality
The health and safety of customers and staff are paramount during any renovation. Solidus implements rigorous dust control measures to prevent construction debris from entering occupied areas. This includes using barriers, negative air pressure systems, and frequent cleaning protocols to ensure that dust, fumes, and other airborne particles do not migrate into customer or staff areas.
We also carefully monitor HVAC systems to ensure that air quality is maintained throughout the renovation process. HVAC systems are often adjusted or temporarily reconfigured during construction to ensure that temperature, humidity, and air circulation remain comfortable for customers and staff.
Sound Mitigation for a Professional Atmosphere
Construction projects can generate significant noise, disrupting the professional atmosphere our clients need to maintain. Our phasing plans incorporate sound mitigation strategies such as the use of temporary sound barriers and sound-dampening materials. Work that is especially noisy, like drilling or jackhammering, is scheduled during off hours. Taking these proactive measures ensures that the branch remains a welcoming environment where customers can conduct their business as usual.
Tradespeople Efficiency and Workflow Optimization
At Solidus, we also focus on tradespeople’s efficiency to ensure that work is completed in the most streamlined way possible. This means carefully planning the workflow so that different trades—such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters—can complete their work without interfering with one another or the branch’s daily operations.
Our detailed schedules help coordinate between trades and allow for just-in-time delivery of materials to minimize storage needs on-site. This reduces clutter and potential hazards and keeps the project on track and within budget. We also prioritize workers’ and customers’ comfort and safety, ensuring that construction areas are well-managed and that tradespeople have the space and resources they need to work efficiently.
Customer Impact Consideration
Above all, we prioritize the customer’s experience. Solidus recognizes that even a well-managed renovation can still affect how customers perceive the bank or credit union. We design our phasing plans to minimize any negative customer impact, working closely with branch managers to communicate the scope and progress of the renovation. This includes clear signage explaining that improvements are underway and assuring customers that their service will not be disrupted.
Taking a thoughtful and methodical approach to each phase ensures that each renovation proceeds smoothly without compromising the bank’s operations or customer service. Solidus’ commitment to precision planning and excellence allows us to deliver renovations that improve branch performance while keeping the doors open for business.
