The leaves are falling and another Chicago winter is on its way. That means it’s time to start thinking about your building’s maintenance. As a property owner or manager, you know that maintaining your building is important all year round. But there are some tasks that are especially important to do before the cold weather hits.
In this article, we’ll cover X of the most important building maintenance tasks to complete before winter. By taking care of these things now, you can avoid more serious problems later on. So let’s get started!
1. Remove Air Conditioners
If your building has air conditioners that are mounted in the windows, now is the time to remove them. These units can be a source of drafts in the winter, so it’s best to take them down and store them until the spring.
2. Insulate Drafty Windows
If you have any windows that tend to leak air, now is the time to address that. You can caulk around the edges of the window or install weatherstripping to help seal up any gaps. This will help keep your building warmer in the winter and lower your energy bills.
3. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters and downspouts play a vital role in keeping water away from your building. But if they’re full of leaves and debris, they won’t be able to do their job properly. So make sure to clean them out before the rains start.
4. Check the Roof
The roof is one of the most important parts of your building, so it’s important to make sure it’s in good condition. Look for any missing or damaged shingles, or any irregularities in the roof material that may point to a potential leak. You should also check the flashing around chimneys, vents, and other roof structures to make sure there are no gaps.
5. Inspect the Foundation
The foundation is another crucial element of your building. Look for any cracks or other signs of damage and have them repaired as soon as possible. This will help prevent water from seeping into your basement or crawlspace in the winter.
6. Service Your Heating System
You don’t want to be left in the cold this winter, so make sure to have your heating system serviced before the weather gets too chilly. This will help ensure that it’s running efficiently and will prevent any unexpected breakdowns. During the coldest days of the year, heating is a safety issue, and building owners are mandated to fix any heating issues immediately — and this will cost you dearly at that time, so it’s best to prevent any issues ahead of time.
7. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are an important part of any building fire safety plan. Make sure to test them all to ensure they’re working properly. You should also check the batteries and replace them if necessary.
8. Winterize Outdoor Faucets
Outdoor faucets can freeze in the winter, which can cause serious damage. To avoid this, be sure to disconnect hoses and drain any water from the faucets before the first frost.
9. Review Your Insurance Coverage
Winter weather can lead to all sorts of problems, from fires and burst pipes to ice dams and wind damage. So it’s important to make sure you have the right insurance coverage in place. Review your building’s policy and make sure you’re adequately covered for any potential risks.
By following this checklist, you can be sure that your building is ready for anything the winter season throws its way. If you have any questions about any of these items, or if you need help completing them, please don’t hesitate to contact your property manager.
Need some help with this year’s fall maintenance tasks? Reach out to us to request a proposal for management services!
