Proper Preparation Can Help Prevent Winter Storm Damage

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

Proper Preparation Can Help Prevent Winter Storm Damage

Before icy winds blow, commercial property owners in Chicago, IL can take steps to prepare for winter storms. Time spent winter-proofing structures can pay big dividends by saving money and time in repair and restoration costs, including for the two most common types of winter storm destruction: frozen pipes and roof damage.

An Ounce of Prevention

When summer ends and the days grow shorter, owners of business buildings should work with a checklist every year to best prepare their properties for the cold months ahead. A few steps taken in time can save many headaches later.

1. Inspect the exterior. Have a professional check the roof, and repair all damages to rain spouts and drains. Clear the gutters to help prevent ice dams, which can damage property and eventually lead to mold growth.
2. Take care of trees. Trim trees and bushes near the property to help prevent building damage from ice storms.
3. Turn up the heat. Keep temperatures throughout commercial structures above 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius), even in empty or unused rooms, to prevent a pipe burst from causing damage.
4. Keep it clear. Before properties need repairs after a wintry storm, put arrangements in place to keep access to business structures clear during snowy, icy weather. This includes arranging for snowplows.
5. Plan for the worst. Preparing for winter storms is not a time for positive thinking or hoping for the best. Think of worst-case scenarios, including frozen pipes, pipe bursts, and roof damage, and write a contingency plan for each one. Inform all team members about the disaster plan.

Disasters Happen

Even with the best preparations for fierce winter storms, damage to commercial properties in Chicago, Illinois can occur. When it does, building owners should notify their insurance companies and also call in restoration specialists who can quickly assess the situation and begin repairs. The right professionals can make the damage seem to disappear.