Preparing Commercial Properties for Winter Storms: Essential Tips for Businesses

11/2/2024 (Permalink)

Snow, ice, high winds, and freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on commercial properties

Winter storms can be brutal, and for business owners, the stakes are high. Snow, ice, high winds, and freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on commercial properties, leading to costly repairs, operational downtime, and safety hazards for employees and customers. Proper preparation before winter hits can save you from dealing with extensive storm damage later on. Here are the essential tips for protecting your commercial property from winter storms, focusing on securing roofs, preventing water damage, and maintaining backup power systems.

1. Secure Your Roof: Protect Your Building from Snow and Ice

The roof is your property’s first line of defense against winter weather. Heavy snow, ice dams, and freezing rain can cause significant damage if your roof isn’t properly secured and maintained. Here’s what you can do:

• Inspect and Repair: Before winter arrives, hire a professional to inspect your roof for loose shingles, damaged flashing, or any signs of wear and tear. Addressing these issues early can prevent leaks and structural damage caused by snow buildup or ice dams.
• Clear Gutters and Downspouts: Clogged gutters are a common cause of roof damage in winter. When snow melts, blocked gutters can lead to ice dams, which prevent water from draining off the roof. This water can then back up into your building, causing leaks and interior damage. Clean your gutters thoroughly and ensure downspouts direct water away from the building’s foundation.
• Invest in Roof De-Icing Solutions: Consider installing roof de-icing cables to prevent ice dams from forming. These cables can keep the edges of your roof warm, allowing snow and ice to melt and flow into the gutters rather than refreezing and causing blockages.
• Snow Removal Plans: If your area regularly experiences heavy snowfall, develop a snow removal plan. Excessive snow accumulation can strain the roof, causing sagging or even collapse. Hire a professional snow removal service to clear your roof safely and prevent damage.

2. Prevent Water Damage: Ice, Snow, and Flooding Risks

Winter storms can bring more than just cold air—they can cause serious water damage. Snow and ice that melt rapidly or storms that bring freezing rain can create major water intrusion issues. Here’s how to prevent water damage:

• Seal Windows and Doors: Inspect windows and doors for gaps or cracks where cold air and moisture could enter. Sealing these openings with caulking or weatherstripping can help keep your property dry and energy-efficient during winter storms.
• Insulate Pipes: Frozen pipes are one of the most common causes of water damage in winter. When water freezes in pipes, it expands and can cause them to burst. Insulate exposed pipes, especially in basements, crawl spaces, and areas with minimal heating. If your building will be closed during a winter storm, leave the heat on at a moderate level to prevent freezing pipes.
• Maintain Proper Drainage: Ensure that water can drain away from your property by keeping drains, gutters, and downspouts clear. If water pools around the foundation due to snowmelt or rain, it can cause flooding in basements or lower levels. Consider adding a sump pump if your building is in a flood-prone area.
• Check for Roof Leaks: After significant snowfall or ice accumulation, inspect your roof for any signs of leaks or damage. Addressing a small leak quickly can prevent costly repairs from water damage.

3. Backup Power Systems: Keeping Your Business Running

Power outages are a common side effect of winter storms, and they can bring business operations to a screeching halt. Investing in a reliable backup power system is essential for maintaining productivity and protecting critical equipment:

• Install Backup Generators: A commercial backup generator can keep your essential systems running during a power outage. This includes heating, lighting, security systems, and IT infrastructure. Choose a generator that’s powerful enough to support your business’s most critical needs and have it serviced regularly to ensure it’s ready when you need it.
• Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS): In addition to a generator, install uninterruptible power supplies for sensitive equipment like servers, computers, and telecommunications systems. UPS devices provide short-term power and protect your equipment from sudden power loss or surges during storms.
• Regularly Test Backup Systems: Backup generators and UPS systems need regular testing to ensure they’ll function properly in an emergency. Schedule routine checks and maintenance to avoid any unpleasant surprises when the next storm hits.
• Create a Contingency Plan: Have a written emergency plan that outlines steps to take during a power outage. This plan should include instructions for contacting your backup power provider, notifying employees, and protecting data and equipment.

4. Winterize Your HVAC System

During the winter, your HVAC system works overtime to keep your building warm and safe. Ensure your system is prepared for the cold by performing the following tasks:

• Schedule a Tune-Up: Before winter arrives, have a professional inspect your HVAC system to make sure it’s operating efficiently. Replace filters, check for leaks, and ensure the heating elements are in good working condition.
• Check for Carbon Monoxide Leaks: Heating systems that burn fuel (such as natural gas or oil) can produce carbon monoxide if they aren’t properly vented. Install carbon monoxide detectors throughout your building, and have your system inspected for any leaks that could endanger employees or customers.
• Maintain Proper Ventilation: While keeping your building warm is important, proper ventilation is equally critical to ensure fresh air circulation and prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold growth.

5. Develop an Emergency Storm Plan

Preparation goes beyond securing your property; you also need to have a clear emergency plan in place to protect your employees and business operations. Here’s what to include:

• Communication Plan: Ensure all employees know how to get updates on closures, power outages, or safety procedures. Assign specific responsibilities to key personnel for managing the response during a storm.
• Emergency Supplies: Stock your property with emergency supplies, such as flashlights, batteries, first-aid kits, blankets, and non-perishable food. In the event of a power outage, these supplies can keep your employees safe until help arrives.
• Property Maintenance Schedule: Create a regular maintenance schedule to ensure your property remains in good condition year-round. This includes roof inspections, HVAC maintenance, and testing backup power systems.

Winter storms don’t have to catch your business off guard. By taking proactive steps to secure your roof, prevent water damage, maintain backup power systems, and prepare your HVAC system, you can protect your property and ensure your business continues to run smoothly throughout the colder months. The time and resources you invest in preparing for winter weather can save you from costly repairs and downtime later on.

If you’re unsure where to start, a professional restoration and property maintenance team can help assess your building’s vulnerabilities and implement the necessary precautions. Don’t wait for the first storm—start preparing your commercial property for winter today!

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Framingham has the advanced training and equipment needed to restore your home and business. Give us a call at (508) 370-4400