Summer may not be over, but now is a good time to schedule fall maintenance to avoid issues during the winter months. This post offers a few suggestions to help you get started.
- Inspect Doors and windows
- Schedule HVAC Maintenance
- Conduct a Roof Walk Through
- Clean Downspouts & Gutters
- Check Exterior Walls/Facade
- Verify storm drain functionality
- Repair Pavement & Sidewalks
- Review Landscaping
Inspect Doors & Windows
Overall, the first thing to do is to inspect your doors (including overhead doors), and windows. To help lower your heating bill, check all walk doors, overhead doors, and windows for a proper seal between the weather stripping and the door. This includes the threshold at the bottom of the door.
Schedule HVAC Maintenance
It is important for you to have your HVAC equipment inspected for your building before the cold weather strikes. This should include changing the filter, checking condensate lines, inspecting the belts for wear, and performing an overall system check.
Conduct a Roof Walkthrough
Conducting a roof inspection is especially important in the North where we get snow and ice. Roof systems should be checked twice a year—spring and fall. Look for loose flashings around the perimeter of the roof. Pay special attention to the flashings around roof vents and rooftop units. If your roof has exposed screws look for screws that are missing or loose.
Clean Downspouts and Gutters
A Clogged drain or downspout can mean trouble in any climate but is especially troublesome in northern winters. Remove all dirt and debris from your downspouts and gutters. Make sure they are securely fastened, and all splices are tight.
Check Walls and Facades
Broken or loose materials can cause damage to your structure so it is important that you inspect your exterior walls or façade looking for broken or loose material and mortar.
Verify storm drain functionality
If you have stormwater facilities on your site, check the catch basins, manholes, and pipes to be sure they are clear of debris and functioning properly.
Repair Pavement & Sidewalks
Snow removal can be messy if your parking lot has damage or your sidewalks are broken up. Fall is a great time for you to inspect your pavement and sidewalks for cracks. Snow plowing and shoveling can make these worse in the winter.
Review Landscaping
Fall is a great time to review your landscape for dead, dying, or damaged trees. You should want to remove those trees and shrubs that have become overgrown or could cause issues during a heavy snow or ice storm. Consider removing large trees that have storm or insect damage to improve your landscape and clear the space. Plan for spring to replace what is needed.
Final Thoughts
Commercial buildings use varying types of systems and materials. If you have a question about a specific system or material maintenance, please call us at
(815) 633-6161. We are happy to help.