Five Steps to Conquering Cold-Weather Maintenance

With so much to do during the holiday season, crucial maintenance can too easily fall to the wayside, leaving your building vulnerable in harsh winter weather.

Keep your property safe from freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and hazardous conditions by checking these steps off your list as soon as possible.

  1. Make sure the exterior is ready for a storm by trimming tree branches, checking outdoor lighting and handrails, and arranging snow clearing in advance. Drain water and shut off faucets for exterior pipes if needed, and don't forget to winterize and store outdoor equipment and furniture. 
     
  2. Secure routine inspections and maintenance for your roof and chimney to ensure functionality and keep the frigid elements outside. Check for damaged shingles or flashing, clean the gutters, and secure the fastening to prevent accumulating weight and moisture.
     
  3. Keep the cold out and the heat in with proper insulation and weatherstripping, replacing the screens with storms to reduce your energy bill even further. Repair and caulk gaps and cracks in between door and window frames as well, using a flickering candle flame to locate troublesome drafts.
     
  4. Rather than dishing out for costly emergencies later, keep your HVAC system up-to-date by handling any necessary repairs, replacing the filters for improved air quality and energy efficiency.
     
  5. Take precautions in case of an emergency. Acquire essential items such as snow shovels, fire extinguishers, and rock salt, and secure biannual inspections to keep your ducts, vents, plumbing, smoke alarms, and other systems in top working order.

Preparing your property to combat the cold will help prevent emergency situations and strengthen your financial stability throughout the seasons.

Contact Southwest Companies today for fundamental care and expertise that will keep your building safe, dependable, and ready for what winter holds.