Storms happen in all seasons, of course, but winter storms bring their own unique challenges to your building maintenance. Gusty winds, ice and snow, and freeze/thaw cycles mean that your building is at risk during the winter months. Get ahead of the weather and mitigate your risks with a robust maintenance plan that will have you prepared long before winter arrives.

Take time in the fall to create a maintenance plan that will carry you right into the spring, with these steps to avoid winter storm damage:

• Conduct a risk assessment to determine what needs to be done to get your building ready. Look for trees near your windows or hydro lines, a roof that needs repair, structures like sheds that could be carried away during a storm, and more.
• Check your equipment storage to make sure that in case of a flood, critical equipment is being stored off the ground to avoid damage and risk of failure.
• Once the temperatures drop and storms start, you may need to address the risk of freezing pipes. Insulate exposed pipes or pipes located in cold areas like warehouses or bays to protect your building from leaks, loss of heat and water of your pipes freeze.
• Prepare for winter storms or natural disasters with a plan and procedures in place to mitigate damage and keep your staff safe.
• Ensure that you have contracts with vendors for things like fuel, so that if the power goes out during a storm, you have a backup plan.
• Confirm contracts with snow removal companies or ensure that you have the supplies and equipment needed should a large volume of snow fall.
• Check on backup systems like generators and emergency lighting to confirm that they are operational if needed.
• Protecting your building is crucial, but so are your teams. Put procedures in place to keep staff home or limit driving during unsafe conditions. Stay on top of governmental warnings and local weather so you can plan ahead for a smaller staff on site or take safety precautions.
• Landscaping can also take a beating during a winter storm, so use shrub wrap to protect bushes and small trees from strong winds and damage from salt if they are close to the road.
• If you need to work outside, be sure that your teams are dressed appropriately, rotate shifts to limit time outside, and be aware of risks and safety practices.

Winter storms are inevitable, but being prepared, putting a plan in place, and executing proactive maintenance can protect you from the damage that can come with winter storms.