Mirsad Pekovic of Chicago works as a plumbing professional who handles retrofits in many of Chicagoland’s older commercial properties. When it comes to plumbing systems in historic buildings, the process of updating old infrastructure is anything but straightforward. Retrofitting requires technical precision, awareness of aging materials, and careful coordination to avoid damaging structures that may be decades—or even more than a century—old. Plumbing systems in such buildings often weren’t built to accommodate modern demands or technology, which creates a layered set of challenges during renovations and upgrades.
Mirsad Pekovic encounters a wide range of plumbing issues in older commercial buildings. These include corroded or failing cast iron drain lines, low water pressure due to mineral buildup in galvanized pipes, and outdated layouts that no longer meet current code or usage requirements. Many older systems were installed before modern standards were put in place, and in many cases, they may lack pressure regulation, adequate venting, or even basic access for maintenance. This makes the initial assessment a critical step in any retrofit project.
When beginning work on these buildings, Mirsad Pekovic of Chicago conducts thorough inspections to evaluate the condition of existing systems and determine how best to upgrade them without compromising structural integrity. He assesses whether pipes are safe to remain in place, where new lines can be introduced, and how to minimize demolition in historically sensitive areas. The goal is always to restore plumbing functionality without disturbing the existing framework more than necessary.
One of the most critical elements in this kind of work is preserving the building's architectural details. Mirsad Pekovic regularly works in commercial spaces where woodwork, stone, and brick were hand-laid and are integral to the overall character of the property. In these cases, drilling through walls, removing floor sections, or accessing ceilings can only be done with extreme care. He must often find creative routes for piping—sometimes opting for less invasive alternatives like wall chases or subfloor channels—so that historical finishes are not impacted.
In addition to preserving interiors, external features such as stone facades or original copper roofing may also require protection. This is particularly relevant in commercial districts where multiple historic buildings are grouped together and the visual integrity of the neighborhood is considered part of its cultural value. Mirsad Pekovic of Chicago works within these parameters, adhering to local codes and preservation guidelines.
Another important aspect of retrofitting historic commercial buildings is understanding the compatibility of old and new materials. Some existing systems may be made from lead, galvanized steel, or clay—materials that are now either obsolete or hazardous. Mirsad Pekovic evaluates whether these materials can be safely removed and replaced, or whether certain segments can be isolated and updated through transitions using approved fittings and sleeves.
In many cases, modern copper, PEX, or PVC piping must be carefully introduced into a system where rigid and heavy materials were used previously. This means managing not only the mechanical connection points but also expansion, contraction, and pressure differences. For example, PEX may require additional bracketing and insulation when retrofitted into a cold basement that wasn’t originally designed to house flexible plastic materials. Mirsad Pekovic of Chicago accounts for these details to ensure that upgraded systems perform reliably over the long term.
Older buildings often have layouts that no longer serve the current use of the space. What might have been a single-use retail space in 1920 may now house a mixed-use business, complete with multiple restrooms, kitchens, or commercial-grade laundry appliances. These upgrades place significantly greater demand on plumbing infrastructure. Mirsad Pekovic adjusts system design accordingly, often increasing pipe diameters, adding pressure regulators, or upgrading water heaters and pumps.
He may also introduce new plumbing fixtures that conform to current efficiency standards. For example, older toilets and sinks often consume more water than is necessary by modern code. When retrofitting these systems, he ensures that the fixtures installed not only match the aesthetic where needed but also help reduce water consumption and meet Chicago’s building requirements.
Many of Chicago’s older commercial properties include architectural barriers to access. Crawlspaces may be tight or non-existent. Pipe runs may be embedded in plaster walls or cast in concrete. Mirsad Pekovic must often rely on specialized tools and techniques to work within these confined or difficult areas. In some situations, minimally invasive inspection tools like cameras and hydrostatic testing equipment are used to gain insight before walls or ceilings are disturbed.
In these projects, planning is often just as important as execution. Mirsad Pekovic of Chicago invests time into mapping out plumbing routes that are practical for installation and maintenance, while also aligning with the limitations of the building’s construction. Because each retrofit varies based on structure and age, no single solution applies universally.
Upgrades in older commercial buildings must comply with current plumbing codes, which differ significantly from those in place when the building was originally constructed. Mirsad Pekovic stays informed of these requirements and ensures that all modifications—from vent stack height to drainage slope—meet modern standards. This is particularly important when tying in new systems to municipal water lines or sewer mains.
He also coordinates with inspectors to confirm that all changes are properly documented and approved. In historic buildings, additional layers of compliance may include coordination with preservation boards or city officials overseeing landmark properties. Mirsad Pekovic of Chicago communicates with these authorities to ensure that retrofitting work moves forward smoothly and without delay.
Many commercial properties in Chicago cannot afford downtime. Offices, restaurants, and retail establishments often remain open during renovation projects. This makes staging and timing essential. Mirsad Pekovic works with property managers and contractors to phase work so that essential services remain functional. He may isolate sections of plumbing, schedule temporary water shutdowns, or use bypasses to maintain operations while work is being completed.
This ability to perform upgrades while minimizing disruption is an important part of commercial retrofitting. It demands not only technical knowledge but also logistical coordination, especially when multiple trades are working on-site at the same time. Mirsad Pekovic of Chicago integrates plumbing work into broader construction timelines to avoid conflicts and keep projects on schedule.
Retrofitting in historic commercial buildings is rarely a one-time job. In many cases, updates are performed in phases—replacing portions of pipe or fixtures as budget, access, and necessity allow. Mirsad Pekovic supports clients in creating multi-year plans for full system modernization, helping them prioritize urgent repairs while planning for future upgrades.
Whether working on a one-floor renovation or a multi-level infrastructure overhaul, he maintains documentation and provides recommendations for maintenance, inspection, and replacement cycles. Mirsad Pekovic of Chicago uses his field experience to anticipate issues that may arise and advises on preventative measures.
Mirsad Pekovic of Chicago works directly with the unique demands of historic commercial buildings throughout the city, applying careful planning and technical skill to each retrofit. His experience with aging infrastructure, material compatibility, layout upgrades, and code compliance supports the careful modernization of plumbing systems without compromising the integrity of these longstanding structures. Through each stage of work—from assessment to execution—Mirsad Pekovic addresses the practical realities of retrofitting and maintains a focus on durability, functionality, and minimal disruption.
Mirsad Pekovic of Chicago continues to work on plumbing retrofits across the city, navigating the challenges of aging systems with a focused, professional approach that reflects both the complexity of the task and the importance of maintaining historic structures.
