Changing seasons means a shift in property maintenance needs. From the roof to the landscape, commercial property buildings need to be prepared for the harsh conditions that come with winter.
Here are 4 ways to protect and prepare your property from water intrusion due to snow and ice melt.
- Address Drains and Gutters
Storm drains and roof gutter systems can collect debris making it difficult for melted ice or snow to flow through. Clogged drains can cause ice dams, which occur with the cycling of cold and warm temperatures. Melted snow or ice re-freezes and backs up underneath the roofing system, causing leaks. Before winter begins, inspect drains and gutters and clear debris from these areas.
- Repair Roof
When addressing drains and gutters, it is an opportune time to check your property’s roof. Your roof protects your most valued assets, and it is imperative to conduct a roof inspection prior to the winter season. This will help prevent leaks after snowfall. While inspecting your roofing system, check for holes, punctures, loose seams or shingles, or other damages that could lead to water intrusion. Metal flashing should also be addressed to ensure the roof is structurally capable for withstanding winter weather.
- Protective Coating
Besides inspecting your building, concrete or asphalt surfaces such as, sidewalks, elevated decks, pool decks, parking garages, and parking lots should be addressed. Protective coatings andcrack seal on these surfaces ensures melted snow or ice does not seep into exposed cracks, further damaging the surface or substrate. Also, to avoid stressing the concrete or asphalt, be sure to apply eco-friendly ice melt products such as SafeStep 8300 which are safer for vegetation and concrete than calcium chloride-based ice melt products.
- Tend to Landscape
Tending to your property’s landscape is just as important as preparing the building, walkways, and parking areas for the winter season. Before the first snowfall, ensure the grass is cut, leaves and other debris are removed, dead branches are cut, the irrigation system has been winterized, and aeration and fertilization are complete. Unkept landscape can cause hazards and lead to water build up around your property.
Performing these 4 steps to winterize your property can help protect from the invasion of water from snow or ice melt during the winter season. However, it is best to hire a professional property services provider to evaluate your property’s conditions and deliver any necessary property services.
