There are very few similarities between commercial buildings and residential properties. One such similarity is that they both need to be adequately prepared for winter, especially if you're located in a region with frigid winter seasons.
Commercial properties are larger and often much more complicated than residential properties. If not appropriately prepared for winters, these properties may incur heavy damages which require expensive repairs, disrupt business and lose value. So here are some tips that will help you in making your commercial building winter-ready.
Get Your HVAC System Serviced
HVAC systems are in charge of maintaining the air quality and air temperature of your commercial building. To keep your building warm and cozy during the winter, you’ll need your HVAC systems to function properly.
Check your HVAC system for broken parts and leaking vents and ducts, and get them fixed right away. Vents and ducts with holes in them will reduce the efficiency of the system. Get the air filters changed and cover the outdoor AC units since they will not be used during the winter season.
Check Your Roof
The roof of your commercial building plays a key role in keeping the cold out. Winter storms often lead to loosening the roof shingles and cause other damage to your roof. Check the roof of your building for cracks, holes, or loose shingles that could result in leakages when the snow melts.
If any damage is found, have it repaired immediately. You should also inspect seals and flashing to ensure that the structural integrity of the roof is not compromised and will not cave in under the weight of the snow.
Prepare Your Plumbing
Water in pipelines can freeze due to the cold temperatures during the winter season. When water turns into ice, it expands, which could rupture your pipes resulting in indoor flooding and ruining expensive equipment.
To avoid this, insulate the pipes that run through unheated areas. Don't turn off the heat in unoccupied spaces; the extra cost is worth it when you consider the inconvenience it avoids. Make sure the freeze protection valves and devices are working properly. To avoid the freezing of pipes, set the building’s thermostat to a minimum of 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
Clean Your Gutters
Gutters can get blocked by leaves and other debris. This prevents water from draining from your roof. The accumulated water can seep in through the roof causing water damage to it. Make sure to clear out any blockages in your gutter before the winter season begins.
Eliminate Drafts
The small openings in windows and doors allow the cold outside air into your building during the winter season. This lowers the efficiency of the HVAC system, driving up the electricity bill for you and your tenants. Installing door and window seals will help in eliminating this issue. It would completely seal the gaps and minimize energy wastage.
Schedule an Appointment
The winter months can be very unpredictable. Even taking the necessary precautions cannot guarantee the safety of your building. In the unfortunate event that your preventive measures fall short and your building gets damaged, get in touch with STOP Restoration of Spokane. We excel in commercial building restoration. Our expertise and advanced equipment allow us to detect, understand and fix all your building damages. Dial 509-818-7744 and let our experts help you out. For more information, click here.
