Fall Maintenance Tips for Commercial Property Managers

Sadly, summer is coming to an end, and fall is quickly approaching. Although we’ll be saying goodbye to boating and swimming season for another year, fall is a perfect time to enjoy some mild weather before winter hits. Not only that, but fall is also a perfect time or some building and property upkeep that will help you ease into the holiday season and winter knowing you’re ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store.

As a Commercial Property Manager, now is the time to get the exterior of your buildings ready for the freezing temperatures and cold weather that winter brings. Making sure you mitigate any potential dangers is simply smart risk management and helps to avoid possible catastrophic effects from the failure to do so. Here are 5 must-do maintenance tasks to ensure your property is ready to take on all that Winter has to bring.

1. Roof Inspection

The roof is the most exposed part of any building and summer heat, rain and winds can wreak havoc on flat and sloped rooftops alike—quickly leading to problems inside a building. High winds, freeze and melt cycles, snow accumulations, ice dams, icicles, hail and sleet can cause damage to roofing, flashings, drains and soffits. Proper preventive maintenance of a commercial roof can maximize the life of the roofing system.

To prevent the need for repairs when they will be more costly or disruptive, a regular fall inspection is always a good idea. If you can easily access the rooftop and it is relatively flat and safe, you may be able to inspect it yourself and perform any necessary preventive maintenance. Otherwise, it’s a good idea to use professionals who are properly trained.

2. Asphalt Maintenance

Maintenance of your asphalt driveways can prevent costly repairs down the road such as asphalt repair or paving replacements. Periodic pressure washing your surfaces will ensure all dirt, debris, chemicals and petroleum products are removed from your pavement’s surface. These chemicals and debris can easily be carried into cracks by water and snow causing additional damage to your asphalt driveway. Pressure washing also adds to the curb appeal of your roadway, driveway, parking lot or walkway.

Moderate temperatures of the fall season are optimal for crack sealing performance. In the cold temperatures of winter, pavement contracts and cracks become bigger while in the hot summer season, the pavement expands and closes the cracks. Crack repair should, therefore, be done while the weather is still on your side. Taking care of cracked or deteriorated pavement now can minimize further damage during the winter freeze and the spring thaw.

Sealcoating is extremely crucial for your asphalt driveway during those long winter snowstorms. It prolongs the life of your asphalt pavements by creating a barrier against moisture and debris. By sealing your asphalt, you will be able to maintain the asphalts appearance and color without having to re-do the asphalt. Unsealed asphalt is susceptible to cracks which, if left untreated, can result in costly repairs of potholes or sub-layers.

3. Check your Heating System

The most difficult time to deal with a furnace or boiler malfunction is when it’s cold and everyone else is having problems too. That’s why performing a regular fall inspection is a great idea. This means checking on the pilot light, oil levels (if applicable) and furnace filters, as well as having an HVAC expert come in for a seasonal checkup. If any repairs are needed, lining them up will be easier, faster and less disruptive to guests and employees.

4. Water Pipe Inspection

Exposed water pipes should regularly be checked for leaks, but fall is also a good time to examine the insulation and make sure it’s prepared for colder weather. Not only could you prevent the costly business interruption and property damage associated with burst pipes, but you could also save on energy costs. For example, insulating outside pipes and sealing the areas where pipes enter and exit the building not only help reduce freezing risks, it also reduces heating costs.

5. Create a Snow and Ice Removal Plan

The trick to overcoming unexpected winter weather so your property doesn’t suffer is to be proactive and prepared before the storm strikes.

Now is a great time to ensure you have a service provider ready to help you clear snow and ice during those rough winter storms ahead, so you can keep your commercial property open and accessible.

Should any commercial construction maintenance issues arise on your property in the Maryland in Washington DC area, don’t hesitate to call Team Cam. Our experienced team is even ready to handle your snow and ice removal needs this winter. We offer a complete care approach to both property managers and owners. Team Cam is dedicated to safety, quality and client satisfaction. Call 443-960-8276 or contact us online (link).