As teaching methods continue to evolve, higher education facilities have adjusted to integrate new ideas and approaches. These efforts have ushered colleges and universities into a new era of adaptive design and sustainability when it comes to their facilities. For decades SaniGLAZE by Cubix, Inc. has worked with colleges and universities who are finding creative, innovative ways to design learning spaces, attract and retain students, and prepare them for the future.
More institutions have begun to take a deeper look at facilities spending and how that’s truly impacting student enrollment and graduation rates. Many universities have extensive data showcasing that living on campus leads to students having higher graduation rates and a more positive opinion on their
college experience. However, for some, too high of rising costs hurts student outcomes. For instance, one university in the southeast found that when it increased housing costs after spending $168 million on apartment-style student housing, it found a student was 12 percent less likely to graduate for every $5,000 in unmet financial need. Because of findings like this, there’s been a return to smaller, more spartan campus housing – allowing schools to both maximize space and reduce housing costs for incoming students.
As it turns out, prospective students seem much more willing to compromise on room space and amenities in exchange for a more affordable education, surprising some administrators and college experts. “Triples” or three students to a room isn’t unheard of, albeit typically reserved for incoming freshmen. Rather than tearing down these residential halls, many schools are opting instead to restore them. Some schools take a moderate approach and replace rooms with larger communal rooms, and
some are taking buildings down to the studs and rebuilding from the inside out.
Whether a building was built in 1950 or 2005, it likely features tile and grout surfaces in its restrooms,
locker rooms and athletic spaces. Throughout the years, tile and grout has remained a dependable choice in building thanks to its durability, longevity and moisture resistance.
If the tile and grout surfaces are unsealed, custodial efforts to transform flooring to an attractive, clean state typically require harsh chemicals and abrasion or agitation. Both can deal long-term damage
to tile and grout surfaces. Grout in its natural state is porous. When strong chemicals are applied to it, they can penetrate the surface, eventually causing the grout to break down and erode. As erosion occurs, more cracks and holes appear, creating new spaces for bacteria and debris to hide in. Harsh agitation may temporarily remove staining or soiling, but it also hastens the breakdown of compromised grout – and the cycle continues. New products and services from Saniglaze by Cubix, Inc. offer a variety of flooring solutions to guard against this. Advanced tile and grout sealers or floor shields are a good way to protect the integrity and longevity of restroom floors and walls. They not only seal out moisture and reduce the burden of cleaning, they help maintain another valuable school asset: Student satisfaction. Reach out to our Cubix, Inc. experts to learn more about the solutions we can offer to keep your student housing facilities in tiptop shape.
Travis Owens, the President of Cubix, Inc., has dedicated over 18 years to refining and leading the premier leader for commercial flooring services in Florida. Before taking the helm as President, Travis excelled as the Director of Operations, solidifying his reputation as an industry trailblazer in commercial flooring consulting and solutions. A proud veteran, Travis honorably served 8 years in the Marines, exemplifying his commitment and discipline in all endeavors. Residing in Orlando with his family, he also indulges in his passion for culinary spices.
