Rebuilding with Confidence: Key Tips for Managing Disaster Reconstruction

HVAC. Radiant heat. Boiler systems. These terms get thrown around in owner meetings—and yes, they overlap. Yet they have very different implications for cost, maintenance, comfort, and risk. At The Barton Group, we guide owners through these options so you can align decisions with your project goals—not guess in the dark.

1. Understand the Systems

• HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air-Conditioning): The most common system—moves air, handles cooling and heating, uses ductwork or packaged systems. Simpler to maintain, but sometimes less efficient for large facilities or zones.
• Radiant Heat: Heating elements (pipes or electric coils) embed in floors, ceilings, or walls. Great for comfort (no drafts), but higher upfront cost and slower response time—less ideal for quick temperature swings.
• Boiler Systems: Uses water or steam to heat radiators, convectors, or pipes. Efficient in the right setting, but needs controls, maintenance, and potentially more space for mechanicals.

2. Align System Choice with Ownership Goals
Ask:

• How many zones do I have (e.g., classrooms, labs, offices)?
• What are my comfort expectations vs budget constraints?
• who will maintain the system, and does our team have that expertise?

A radiant system may feel premium, but if your occupancy changes rapidly or you have many users with variable schedules, a simpler HVAC might outperform.

3. Don’t Skip Controls & Integration
Regardless of the system, the control strategy is critical. Poor controls or outdated software create waste, reduce lifespan, and frustrate occupants. Confirm:

• Is there a central BMS (Building Management System)?
• Can the system integrate with lighting, metering, and occupancy sensors?
• Are spare parts and qualified technicians available locally?

4. Plan for Life Cycle & Risk

Big systems like boilers or radiant floors come with higher one-time risk. For example: a pipe leak under a finished floor can be very expensive. Forecast the maintenance schedule, replacement cost, and risk event(s) over the next 10-15 years.



5. Make Decisions with an Owner’s Rep Mindset
As your advocate, we ask the questions contractors might not:

• What’s the real payback period of radiant vs HVAC?
• If occupancy changes, how adaptable is the system?
• Does the system support sustainability goals or future retrofit options?

Whether you’re building new or renovating existing space, the right mechanical system is more than equipment—it’s a strategic decision. Let us help you ask the right questions up-front so your investment aligns with performance, budget, and timeline.

— The Barton Group