Why do schools cost more than commercial buildings?

Schools have a different occupancy classification and more stringent building code requirement than most standard commercial structures. Schools must be constructed to meet much higher seismic, fire and life safety standards to protect children in the event of fire, earthquake or other emergencies. In addition, school facilities involve more complex and intensive technological and mechanical systems, such as laboratories and kitchens. This construction is more expensive for schools than for commercial buildings. Materials used in school construction must be of higher durability and quality than standard buildings in order to withstand the heavy use and potential abuse. These materials typically have higher initial costs but lower long term costs when considering reduced maintenance and repair over time. Lower cost materials and equipment typically have shorter life expectancies and require more frequent replacements.