Winter Maintenance Checklist — It's Not Too Late

The winter season is upon us, and if you haven't already taken measures to protect your facility, the time is now. Preventative maintenance can go a long way in protecting your building and grounds from winter's harsh temperatures and conditions. With proper maintenance and servicing, you can lessen the risk of damage and loss. 

Consider the following as you are preparing your facility for winter:

• Heating Systems – Hire a certified professional contractor to service your heating system. Be sure to check system filters at least once a month, as some need to be changed frequently.
• Water Pipes – Take precautions to prevent frozen pipes or potential bursts. 
  • Wrap pipes that are exposed to freezing temperatures or located in unheated areas with pipe insulation.
  • Turn faucets to a slow drip to help prevent freezing during extremely cold temperatures.
  • Insulate outside walls and unheated areas of the building.
• Roof and Gutters – Inspect your roof for possible leak sources, and empty out all gutters, eaves and downspouts. Take measures such as these to prevent ice dams:
  • Ensure adequate insulation and ventilation in the attic.
  • Consider installing soffit vents to increase ventilation.
  • Seal any openings in the attic, such as heat ducts, light fixtures and vent pipes.
  • Maintain gutters, eaves and downspouts to keep them clear.
  • Clear snow two to three feet from all roof edges with a snow rake.
• Faucets and Lawn-Irrigation Systems – Make sure water pipes for outside faucets and lawn-irrigation systems are drained, and disconnect any hoses prior to the winter freeze. 
• Handrails and Walkways – Check your facility handrails and see that they are in good condition without any physical damage and are adequately secured. Ensure that walkways will have de-icing products applied when weather conditions are wet and slippery.
• Snow and Ice Removal – Be sure your to have all of the essential equipment for snow and ice removal, such as shovels, ice melt and snow blowers or engage a company that will provide these services.

Preventive maintenance is the key to preventing injury to those who visit your facility as well as to avoiding costly property damage and repairs. 

© 2024 GuideOne Insurance. GuideOne® is the registered trademark of the GuideOne Insurance Company. All rights reserved. This material is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to give specific legal or risk management advice, nor are any suggested checklists or action plans intended to include or address all possible risk management exposures or solutions. You are encouraged to retain your own expert consultants and legal advisors in order to develop a risk management plan specific to your own activities.