With climate change and increased weather events, facility and maintenance managers need a comprehensive plan to address any weather-related threats to the building. Creating a proactive prevention plan, along with knowing how to address each threat can help keep your building dry, your occupants safe, and your business running.

Protecting your building means adopting a four-season approach to be prepared for as many weather-related risks as possible throughout the year.

Winter

Temperature dropping can pose several risks to your building. Get ahead of potential threats by taking these factors into account:

• Wind chill can increase the risk of your pipes freezing and bursting, so insulate your exterior pipes and pipes exposed to cold air in places like warehouses and loft spaces.
• Before the cold weather arrives, assess your doors and windows for air leakage and install additional window caulking, weatherstripping and door sweeps to mitigate heat loss and lower your bills.
• If there has been excessive or heavy snow, monitor your roof and determine whether professional snow removal is necessary to avoid potential structural damage.
• Winter storms can also cause power outages, so consider adding or upgrading your generator to eliminate work stoppage due to loss of power.

Spring

As the snow melts and the amount of precipitation increases, flooding and water damage pose a risk to your building. Here are some of the steps to take to reduce the risk of unwanted moisture in your building:

• Conduct routine checks to make sure your gutters are clear and your downspouts are draining away from your building. Keep trees trimmed and ensure that there is no debris clogging the drains on your roof, which can cause ponding water and damage.
• Regularly change your HVAC filters, have your equipment inspected and perform routine maintenance for optimal performance, increased IAQ, and to reduce the risk of added moisture and mould.
• Seal all cracks and gaps around windows and doors to prevent water infiltration.

Summer

So far, 2020, 2021, and 2023 have been recorded as the worst years yet for wildfires. Protect your building and its inhabitants with the following practices:

• Regularly assess your HVAC for optimal performance and add screening to your exterior vents so the air quality in your building is at its best.
• If you are in an area prone to forest fires, reduce the vegetation on your property, ensure fire hydrants are in working order, install dual-paned non-combustible windows, and consider selecting non-combustible cladding on exterior walls, and for gutters and downspouts.
• Create an emergency response plan and train staff and occupants on the steps, should evacuation be necessary.

Fall

Along with flooding, flash frosts, and wildfires, this season can also bring windstorms, hurricanes, and impending winter weather. Here are some of the steps to take to protect your building this fall:

• Watch the weather to be prepared for incoming storms so you can remove outdoor signage, ensure that any siding or cladding is securely attached, and assess your landscaping to ensure that it does not become a hazard in the event of high winds.
• Hurricanes can cause wind damage along with flooding, so ensure that you board up windows if necessary, store important documents in an elevated area, and have your emergency response plan ready for execution.
• Preparing for winter is important at this time of year so taking preventative action like clearing roof drains, planning for snow removal, and practicing the above-mentioned winter tips will help you be a step ahead of the winter weather.
• Check on your HVAC system to ensure that it is functioning properly and will properly heat your building when winter arrives.

With preventative action, you can help mitigate seasonal weather-related risks to your building and our business.