Building for the long-term is a smart choice. At SAS Projects, we’ve been helping people create buildings that last since 1978. Whether you’re building project is a storage unit, updating a living room, or designing a workspace, planning for the future will save you money and hassle.
What Does Future-Proofing Mean?
Future-proofing means creating buildings that will stay useful and valuable for many years. It’s about making wise choices now that will reduce costs later. A future-proofed building can change as your needs change, handle tough weather, use less energy, and keep its value.
Important Ways to Future-Proof Your Building
1. Install Solar Panels
Adding solar panels is one of the best ways to future-proof your building. Solar energy systems are more affordable and efficient than ever before.
At SAS Projects, we fit solar panels and eco-systems that lower your electricity bills while helping the environment. Solar panels work best on south-facing roofs, but can perform well in many locations. The number of solar panels you need depends on how much energy you use.
Solar panel cost varies based on system size, but most pay for themselves within 5-8 years through savings on electricity bills. Many energy companies will even pay you for extra power you generate!
2. Create Flexible Spaces
Buildings that can be changed over time are more valuable. Think about how your spaces might need to serve different purposes in the future.
Our self-storage conversion service transforms existing buildings into modern storage facilities. These work well because we design them to be easily adapted as needs change.
A living room that works for you today might need to be something else tomorrow. Plan for this by including:
Movable wall systems
Adaptable floor layouts
Higher ceilings
Strong foundations
Plenty of power outlets for future technology
3. Choose Durable Materials
Materials that last a long time with little maintenance save money on repairs. Our storage units use steel that remains strong for decades with minimal upkeep.
Material
Lifespan
Maintenance Needed
Steel
50+ years
Very little
Brick
100+ years
Low
Treated Wood
30+ years
Moderate
4. Prepare for Weather Changes
With more extreme weather happening, buildings need to be tougher. This is especially important for drive-up storage units that protect your belongings from the elements.
Important features include:
Better drainage systems
Raised foundations in areas prone to flooding
Stronger roofing
Better insulation
Designs that can handle strong winds
5. Reduce Energy Use
Buildings that use less energy cost less to run. When we do a self-storage fit-out, we include:
LED lights that turn on when someone enters the room
Quality insulation
Efficient heating systems
Smart controls
Better windows
Well-insulated storage space requires much less energy to keep at the right temperature.
Example: A Modern Storage Facility
Recently, we built a storage facility featuring:
Solar panel system covering most of the roof area
Storage boxes that can be rearranged as needed
Modern security systems
Motion-detecting LED lighting
Extra insulation
Electric vehicle charging points
The owner now pays 75% less for energy, and the renewable energy produced is better for the environment.
Starting Your Future-Proof Project
Think about how your building might need to change over the next 30 years
Work with specialists who understand future-proofing
Invest in quality materials
Consider long-term costs, not just the initial building price
Include solar power from the beginning
Design with flexibility in mind
At SAS Projects, we specialise in creating buildings that stand the test of time. From storage units to general construction, we use our 40+ years of experience to build for today and tomorrow.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much extra does future-proofing cost?
Future-proofing typically adds 5-15% to your building costs. The exact cost depends on which features you choose. However, these investments usually pay for themselves within 5-10 years through lower running costs.
Which future-proofing feature saves the most money?
Solar panels generally provide the best financial return. A good solar power system with a charge controller can reduce electricity bills by 50-90%. Your actual savings depend on your energy usage and the size of your system.
Can existing buildings be future-proofed?
Yes! Older buildings can certainly be future-proofed. Our self-storage conversion service demonstrates how we transform existing buildings into modern, efficient facilities. While some features are easier to add during new construction, many can be successfully added to existing buildings.
How long should a future-proofed building last?
A well-built, future-proofed building should last at least 50-100 years with regular maintenance. The main structure may last even longer, while systems like electrical wiring and plumbing will typically need updating every 20-30 years.
Conclusion
Future-proofing is a practical approach to building that saves money and benefits the environment. At SAS Projects, we’ve been helping clients build better since 1978.
Whether you need a drive-up storage unit or a complete building project, considering future needs now will deliver benefits for decades to come. Contact our team today to discuss how we can help make your next building project truly future-proof.
