7 Energy-Efficient Upgrades Baltimore Businesses Can't Ignore

As a Baltimore business owner, you are always looking for new ways to save money. And a lot of business owners ask us, “how can we make our commercial business more eco-friendly?” Business owners are looking for commercial renovations to save money, go green, and give their business a facelift.

One of the best ways to do it all is by making energy-efficient upgrades to commercial buildings. At Marshall Cruz Construction, we specialize in commercial renovations that improve energy efficiency, helping businesses lower their energy bills and create more comfortable workspaces, all while improving the value of the business and the experience for customers and employees alike.

If you’re looking to upgrade your commercial space, we have seven energy-efficient upgrades you can start planning today – get a quote to learn more.

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1. Upgrade to LED Lighting

One of the easiest ways to improve energy efficiency in your business is by switching to LED lighting. Traditional lighting, like incandescent and fluorescent bulbs, use more electricity and don’t last as long. In contrast, LEDs use up to 75% less energy and can last 25 times longer.

At Marshall Cruz Construction, we help Baltimore businesses install energy-efficient LED lighting in offices, warehouses, retail spaces, and more. LED lights also provide better brightness and color quality, creating a more pleasant environment for employees and customers.

2. Install Insulated Doors

Old or poorly sealed doors let air escape, making it harder to keep your building comfortable – a common problem with historic Baltimore buildings. This forces heating and cooling systems to work harder, driving up energy costs. Replacing outdated doors with insulated commercial doors helps maintain indoor temperatures and reduces energy loss.

We install steel, fiberglass, and glass doors designed to provide both energy efficiency and security. For added efficiency, we also recommend weatherstripping around doors to block drafts and seal air leaks.

3. Use Drop Ceilings for Better Temperature Control

A drop ceiling isn’t just for aesthetics—it also helps improve energy efficiency. By lowering the ceiling height, drop ceiling installations reduce the amount of space that needs to be heated or cooled. This means HVAC systems use less energy to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature while all ceiling-mounted wires, pipes, and duct systems are still available for maintenance.

Our team can install drop ceilings with energy-efficient materials that help insulate your space. For areas where noise reduction is important, we also offer acoustic ceilings that absorb sound while improving energy efficiency. We can consult on the right materials, height, and design that preserves the ambiance of your space while helping you save on energy bills.

Learn More About Why Drop Ceiling Installations are Perfect for Baltimore Historic Buildings

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4. Improve Insulation with Drywall Installation

Proper insulation is essential for reducing energy costs, especially in Baltimore’s hot summers and cold winters. Many commercial buildings lose energy through poorly insulated walls that have not been updated since their initial build. By installing drywall with added insulation, we help businesses maintain stable indoor temperatures and reduce heating and cooling expenses.

We use high-quality drywall that pairs well with spray foam or fiberglass insulation, creating a thermal barrier that keeps heat inside during winter and outside during summer. This upgrade makes a big difference in both energy savings and indoor comfort. Plus, new drywall installation can help you re-organize the layout, create more space or design more offices, and give the interior a makeover.

5. Energy-Efficient Flooring Installation

Believe it or not, the right flooring can also help improve energy efficiency in commercial renovations for Baltimore businesses. Certain flooring materials, like carpet and cork, provide natural insulation, helping to keep heat in during the winter months. In warmer seasons, materials like vinyl and tile help keep spaces cooler. If your building is prone to extreme temperatures, new commercial flooring installation could help.

At Marshall Cruz Construction, we offer a range of commercial flooring options designed to suit your needs while improving energy efficiency. Upgrading to modern, durable flooring can reduce maintenance costs and improve the look of your space. Talk to us about flooring options for retail spaces, medical buildings, offices, and more. 

Bonus: see our commercial flooring recommendations for high-traffic areas.

6. Optimize Your Interior Framing Layout

The way a building is framed plays a big role in its energy efficiency. Poor framing can create gaps that allow heat to escape, increasing energy costs. Our expert framing services ensure that walls, ceilings, and floors are constructed with minimal gaps and better insulation, reducing heat loss and improving indoor comfort.

Using techniques like advanced framing or adding insulated studs can further improve efficiency by reducing thermal bridging—the process where heat escapes through framing materials. This upgrade is especially important for businesses looking to meet energy efficiency standards and reduce utility bills in older buildings.

7. Install Motion-Sensor Lighting

Believe it or not, lighting accounts for a large portion of a business’s energy costs, especially in areas where lights are left on when not needed. Installing motion-sensor lighting ensures that lights only turn on when someone is present, reducing unnecessary energy use.

We can install motion sensors in offices, hallways, restrooms, and storage areas, helping businesses cut down on energy waste. Combined with LED lighting, this upgrade provides maximum energy savings without sacrificing visibility or safety. We keep your commercial renovations simple while you still see big savings and high quality improvements.

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Talk To Us About Eco-Friendly Commercial Renovations Today

Investing in energy-efficient upgrades is a smart choice for Baltimore businesses. These improvements can help reduce energy costs, create a more comfortable workspace, and support a greener future. Plus, many energy-efficient renovations, like LED lighting and insulated doors, offer a quick return on investment through lower utility bills.

At Marshall Cruz Construction, we specialize in commercial renovations in Baltimore that improve energy efficiency, from drywall and flooring to lighting and drop ceilings. Our experienced team is here to help you create a space that’s both cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

By investing in smart energy upgrades, Baltimore businesses can save money, improve comfort, and reduce their environmental impact. Let Marshall Cruz Construction help you take the next step toward energy efficiency!

Ready to make your building more energy-efficient? Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

FAQ: Energy-Efficient Upgrades for Baltimore Businesses

How much can my business save by upgrading to energy-efficient features?
Energy savings depend on the type of upgrade. For example, LED lighting can cut lighting costs by up to 75%, while improving insulation can reduce heating and cooling expenses by 20-30%.

Do energy-efficient upgrades qualify for tax incentives?
Yes! Maryland offers tax credits and rebates for businesses that invest in energy-efficient improvements like LED lighting, insulation, and HVAC upgrades.

How long does it take to install energy-efficient upgrades?
Installation times vary depending on the project. Lighting and door installations can be completed in a day or two, while larger projects like drywall and framing may take longer. We work with you to reduce business down time as much as possible.

How do I know which energy-efficient upgrades my building needs?
We recommend starting with an energy audit to identify areas where your building is losing energy. Our team can assess your space and recommend the best upgrades based on your budget and goals.

Do energy-efficient renovations increase property value?
Yes! Energy-efficient buildings are more attractive to buyers and tenants, often leading to higher property values and lower operating costs.

Can I upgrade my building in phases?
Absolutely! We can help you prioritize upgrades based on your budget, schedule, and energy savings goals.

How do I get started?
Call Marshall Cruz Construction today to schedule a consultation! We’ll help you plan energy-efficient upgrades that fit your needs and budget.

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Based in Baltimore, MD, Marshall Cruz Construction is a quality, professional construction company serving Maryland, DC, and Northern Virginia. Whether you’re a company manager in need of new renovations at your business or you’re a project manager completing residential home renovations, we have a crew to help.