Older commercial buildings in Ottawa bring undeniable character and charm—but they also come with unique construction challenges. When it’s time to renovate or modernize these structures, drywall and framing issues often top the list. At RGZ Cambridge, we specialize in overcoming these obstacles with precision, planning, and proven experience.

In this post, we’ll dive into the most common drywall problems found in aging commercial properties, explain how RGZ Cambridge tackles them, and highlight why we remain a top choice for drywall retrofits across Ottawa.

Renovating Historic and Aged Structures: What Can Go Wrong?

Older commercial buildings typically have:

  • Uneven wall surfaces
  • Outdated framing materials
  • Water damage from past leaks
  • Inconsistent ceiling heights
  • Code violations that require immediate attention

All these factors make modern drywall installation more complex than in new builds. Add in older mechanical systems, tight spaces, and the need to preserve structural integrity, and it becomes clear why experience matters.

That’s where RGZ Cambridge comes in.

Our Proven Strategy for Drywall Retrofits in Ottawa

Step 1: Comprehensive Site Assessment
Every retrofit begins with a detailed inspection. We look for moisture issues, outdated materials, structural weaknesses, and anything that may interfere with drywall or steel stud installation.

Step 2: Customized Solutions
No two buildings are alike. We tailor our drywall services to suit each project’s unique challenges. This may include moisture-resistant drywall, custom stud placement, or ceiling-level adjustments.

Step 3: Modern Meets Classic
We bring aging interiors up to code while preserving their historic value. Whether it’s reinforcing walls, correcting framing angles, or integrating drywall into a heritage design, RGZ Cambridge gets the job done right.

Step 4: Code Compliance
As a code-compliant drywall contractor in Ottawa, we ensure that all materials, finishes, and framing techniques meet current building regulations.

FAQs: Working on Older Commercial Buildings in Ottawa

Do older buildings need special drywall products?
Yes. Moisture-resistant, soundproof, or fire-rated drywall is often required to meet modern code and performance standards.

How long does a retrofit take?
It depends on the condition of the building. RGZ Cambridge provides a full project timeline during the assessment phase.

Can RGZ Cambridge work around business hours?
Absolutely. We plan schedules to minimize disruption and can work during off-hours or weekends.

What’s the biggest challenge when working in older buildings?
The unpredictability—hidden damage, outdated framing, and unlevel surfaces. But with RGZ Cambridge, we’re prepared for it all.

Do you also update the steel stud framing if needed?
Yes. We specialize in commercial steel stud framing in Ottawa and often replace or reinforce framing during the drywall retrofit process.

What Makes RGZ Cambridge the Right Fit?

We’ve worked on everything from retrofitting heritage office buildings to updating mixed-use commercial spaces with decades-old infrastructure. Our work balances the need for modernization with an understanding of the structure’s original integrity.

Here’s what sets us apart:

✅ Extensive experience with aging structures
✅ Efficient timelines and flexible scheduling
✅ Clean, organized work sites
✅ Detailed project management to prevent scope creep
✅ Long-lasting finishes that meet today’s standards

We invite you to browse our RGZ Cambridge Portfolio to see how we’ve helped bring older Ottawa buildings back to life.

Let’s Modernize Your Commercial Space—Safely and Smoothly

Whether you’re renovating a century-old storefront or a post-war office building, RGZ Cambridge has the drywall and framing expertise to help.