However, while maintenance is at the top of your priorities, the unpredictability of weather conditions can pose some challenges when it comes to keeping your commercial property in top shape. But do not fret! Below is an easy guideline with some tips on how to keep your business environment safe and prepared for whatever mother nature throws its way.

Regularly inspect your commercial property’s exterior

As a significant investment, going to great lengths to maintain the state of your property is vital. Regular inspections should be done with high attentiveness to any potential damage or deterioration of your commercial building. A proper commercial building inspection will reveal the real condition of your property as well as the expenses for repairs. This allows you to fix any issues before they get worse with the impending climate conditions, further preserving your asset.

Check for leaks

There are many factors that can impact your property, but water damage is one of the most common and costliest types of commercial property damage. They account for 48 per cent of insurance claims according to the Canadian Institute of Actuaries, and can cause more than $2 million in losses. Once a pipe bursts, it can cost your business thousands of dollars if left unattended. This can also lead to temporarily closing your business, resulting in lost revenue. Frequently checking for leaks in your facility to fix right away prevents costlier issues arising due to structural damage and the growth of harmful mould.

Safety

In the case of an unexpected emergency, repairing property defects like unclear markings that indicate emergency exit routes, damaged surfaces, and cluttered walkways lessens the chances of hazards developing. This improves the safety and efficiency of your property.

Get the right insurance

While the preparation for possible damage is important, there is still a chance that calamity will occur on your property. With the increasing costs of claims for property damage or losses due to severe weather quadrupling over the last decade, it is crucial to obtain and maintain the proper insurance. Getting a suitably devised business insurance policy can help to repair or replace your damaged or destroyed equipment after a covered loss.

Commercial buildings are vulnerable to the effects of a changing climate. It is necessary for building owners and property managers to take the right steps for preparation against potential weather damage, extending the life of the property. Hiring the right professionals goes a long way to help ensure weatherproofing your commercial property is done correctly.

The post 5 ways to protect your commercial property against weather damage first appeared on Fort York Paving.

Now is the time to be proactive, instead of reactive towards any potential problems that may arise as you get your property ready for the summer. Follow this checklist to help keep your commercial property in top condition this summer so you can better serve your customers, employees, and community.

Landscaping

It’s important to start cleaning up any debris that clutter your yard so you can maintain the outdoor space of your business to ensure presentability. This adds to the welcoming feel of the property, and its safety as any potential hazards in walking areas are removed.

Roof inspection

Hot summers can be very problematic for commercial roofing systems. The combination of humidity and heat with intense sunshine leads to the breakdown of the roof’s integrity. This can lead to further damages if they’re not checked and appropriately maintained, becoming costly issues to fix as they grow worse. Regular maintenance is important for roofing systems to keep your building in top shape.

Lighting

With warmer weather comes more people spending time outside. It’s vital to ensure your outdoor lighting systems are operational to improve your property’s safety and security.

Surface inspection

Double-checking the exterior of your building and its surroundings (i.e., patios, decks, sidewalks, etc.) is always a good idea to guarantee your property’s safety. Some key things to look for include cracks, holes, discolouration; essentially any issues that show signs of needed surface repair.

Pest control

Pests are often a common problem during summer months. Having them present on your property can both deter visitors and damage its structural integrity. Inspect your property for any rodents, insects, and other invaders, calling the necessary professionals to have them removed.

HVAC maintenance

Keeping all occupants comfortable and cool during summer months is an important matter, one that can be achieved with an HVAC system in good working condition. Overtime, HVAC systems can become clogged with debris and dust, affecting its efficiency. Make sure your HVAC system is properly maintained to keep it at its top performance level when it’s needed most.

Clean gutters

Remove any leaves, trash, or other debris that made its way into your gutter during rainy summer days. This helps to prevents any water blockage affecting your commercial building and causing water damage or mold growth.

Keep your commercial property on top of things this summer by taking the time to do vital upkeep. Now’s a better time than ever to ensure your property looks and operates its best.

The post Getting your commercial property ready for the summer – maintenance checklist first appeared on Fort York Paving.

Improper drainage

If your parking lot has excessive pooling and improper drainage after a rainfall or snowmelt, it is a sign your lot needs replacement. Proper levelling and functional catch basins are essential to ensure proper drainage in your parking lot to prevent water from staying on the surface.
Whether it is repairing, resurfacing or a complete replacement, this step is crucial to prevent your asphalt from worsening.

Asphalt cracks

Cracks in asphalt arise over time after extreme weather conditions and prolong use. Oil, gas, de-icing salt and even water can penetrate the surface and cause cracks and expansion in your parking lot. Longer, wider or deeper cracks indicate more extreme damage, therefore depending on the size of the cracks, your asphalt may require a repair and/or replacement.

Potholes

Potholes are common signs your parking lot requires repairing. When a crack begins to form, it usually leads to a pothole when not repaired immediately; this is caused by expansion and contraction underneath the surface which leads to material breakdown. Potholes can deepen and expand from excessive use over a long period of time and weather conditions. When it starts to become a safety issue for vehicles and customers, it is proof that your asphalt and parking lot needs to be replaced.

Overall, these are four signs and indications that your parking lot may need to be replaced or repaired. These tips can help you look out for any damage signs while improving the look and maintenance of your lot and asphalt. For expert repair and replacement, visit Fort York Paving for your parking lot needs here https://www.fortyorkpaving.com/.

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