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Considering dental office remodeling? Or should you just build new? The decision goes far beyond price. You want to make sure you get the remodeling or building done in a timely manner, so your practice can remain open. You probably don’t have time to meet with architects, interior designers, contractors, builders, etc. That’s why you want to work with an experienced firm that specializes in dental office design that can complete the project from start to finish.
Assess the State of Your Current Office
What is it about your current dental office that needs to be modified? If your work space does not have any unique features, you can build a new dental office to match your requirements. If your dental office has a special charm, level of comfort, superior-quality construction and workmanship that you feel you may not find anywhere else, remodeling can provide you with more room to add whatever is missing. However, if your dental office has major structural problems or issues with HVAC, plumbing, or electrical systems, then building a new dental office could be a more sensible decision.
Make Sure You’re Covered Legally
You may also have to check with your local government whether you can make the renovation modifications you desire. If you’re staying within your current designated area or footprint, there shouldn’t be a problem. However, any expansion without a permit can go against the laws in your local zone. So, whether you’re planning to build a new dental office or remodel your existing office space, get in touch with the local government to get the required permissions.
Why Should You Remodel?
There is currently an explosion of growth in the dental field. Not only are current dentists stepping up their game, but new dentists are entering the workforce at a high rate. If your practice hasn’t been updated within the last few years, you could be falling behind. One of the effects of having an outdated dental office is your patients’ perception of you and your staff. If a patient sees an out of date office with out of date equipment, it’s entirely likely they could assume you and your staff aren’t up to date on treatment which can be a deterrent. From outdated wait rooms to treatment rooms, if the patient experience isn’t up to their perceived standards, it could affect how your patients feel coming to you.
Why Should You Build?
Was your practice a dental office from it’s construction? If it was a building that got fitted with your dental office, you could seriously be operating less efficiently than you should be. Dental offices are unique when it comes to their construction. Dental offices require specific plumbing, equipment, and design. If something is amiss or improperly built for dental work, it could cause major problems down the road, costing you time and money. Building new can ensure your practice is designed to be both aesthetically pleasing and properly suited for the job. The foundation, plumbing and equipment can be installed and housed properly making for a smoother, better place to work and to get treated.
Other Things to Consider About Dental Office Remodeling vs. Building New
On top of everything else, the amount of hassle involved is also a factor worth considering. Remodeling an existing dental office or building a new one are two equally challenging projects. Nevertheless, if your dental office is undergoing remodeling, your dental practice’s business may get affected for a longer duration. Dental construction may also cause inconvenience to your patients. Depending on the type and extent of remodeling, it may take some time for the remodeling project to complete.
If you build a new dental office, your daily business may get as directly affected. While the construction of your new dental office may last several weeks or months, you can move your dental practice to a temporary space. However, you’re the best judge here, and only you can determine if a temporary move is a viable option. The option you pick will entirely depend on your specific needs and budget. Again, this is why it is imperative to work with a design-build firm that has done this before. Based on their experience, they will help you make an informed decision.
