Prepare For Spring
Commercial properties have their own set of tasks to make sure that they’re ready for the warmer season. Standard clean ups and checking on the mechanicals in the building that have been dormant through winter are just some of the necessary things to inspect.
1. Wash the windows. Now that the sun is shining, why not bring it into the building? Clean all the building’s windows which may be caked with dirt and debris from snow, ice, and other winter weather. Check all the windows for cracks or breaks, as well as checking the screens for holes. If you notice any issues, replace or repair as needed.
2. Clean the floors. During the winter, floors are the first to take a beating. Winter weather will track in snow, ice, salt, and other dirt into the building. It’s time to deep clean the carpets and floor mats, and give hardwood or vinyl floors a good scrub and wax.
3. Wash and sanitize the restrooms. While restrooms are cleaned on a regular basis, springtime is the perfect time to do a deep clean and sanitation. Check for leaks and cracks in the plumbing – and take the time to repair or call in a professional plumber to fix the issue. This will prevent future water damage.
Head outside!
Winter is melting away, and you’ll notice that it has left bits and pieces behind in your landscaping. Rake up debris, plant new grass in areas that have worn down, trim bushes and trees, and start planting spring florals. You can also start checking the sidewalks and parking lots for large cracks and potholes that could have the potential to become safety hazards.
4) Check the roof. Check for damage to the roof that may have been caused by heavy snows, winds, ice dams, etc. Look for loose shingles or even holes – anything that could pose a potential issue or cause water to leak inside.
4) Keep water where it belongs – outside! Check the property for standing water, leaks from gutters or roofs, foundation cracks, leaks in the basement, water spots, etc. These can be telltale signs of water damage, which can lead to mold infestation.
5) Check the exterior. Winter weather can wear down the outside of a building, along with age itself. Check the exterior of your building for cracks. Pay close attention to the area around doors and windows and the foundation. Also look for chipped paint and masonry, gutters that may need repair, siding that is sagging, etc.
6) Check for pests. Have you noticed bugs and rodents are acting up lately? Keep a watchful eye out for ants, roaches, and other insects. Consider spraying the property to prevent any pests from entering the property. Don’t forget to check for any pest damage that has already happened.
Finally, your HVAC system
During winter your A/C didn’t get much usage, but the heater probably worked overtime. While spring may not call for the usage of air conditioning right away, it’s best to be prepared for the warmer weather.
1) Clean hoses and the unit itself, clearing it of any dirt, sludge, grime, and other debris that built up during the winter months.
2) Check the thermostat, wires, connectors and air flow of the unit. Make sure the operating efficiency is at 100%.
3) Check all air ducts, drain pans, motors, compressors – and if you notice anything out of the ordinary repair the issue immediately.