2026 Bond Q&A: Why do schools buildings need major maintenance?

Just like your home, school buildings require more than routine upkeep as they get older.
You can change air filters, clean gutters, patch cracks, and make small repairs, but eventually the roof needs replacing, the HVAC system wears out, and the driveway needs to be resurfaced.
Schools are no different, except the buildings are much larger and serve hundreds or even thousands of people each day.
The average CCS elementary school is 22 years old, middle school average age is 23 years, and the average age of our traditional high schools is 36 years.
Many major systems that make up those schools have much shorter lifespans. A typical roof may last about 15-20 years, HVAC equipment about 18-20 years, and parking lots about 15-20 years before major replacement may be needed.
Regular maintenance can extend the life of these systems, but it cannot make them last forever. Major maintenance allows the district to replace aging systems, protect the community’s investment in its school buildings, and keep those facilities safe and functional for years to come.
The proposed Cabarrus County Schools GO Bond will appear on the November 3, 2026 ballot.
For more information, please visit the following resources:
www.engagewithccs.com/bond26Engage with CCS Bond Information Page