Brace Yourself, Austin: Winter Is Coming for Your Pipes
Winter in Austin, MN, is something else. Temperatures can plunge to -10°F or lower, snow piles up on streets and rooftops, and that first ice storm can catch even the savviest business owner off guard. For commercial properties, the snowy season is almost like a test of how well buildings withstand frigid conditions and sudden water damage.
Getting your building ready for the cold months protects your structure and helps operations run smoothly. For spots that can’t run without water —like restaurants, laundromats, or factories —prepping for winter now keeps pipes happy and your bottom line intact.
Taking a few simple steps now can help business owners avoid surprise shutdowns. The tips below show practical ways to tackle Austin winters and how to keep pipes from freezing before the next big snowstorm hits.
Feeling the Freeze During Austin Winters
Minnesota winters aren’t for the faint of heart. Snowfall often exceeds 40 inches a year, and temperatures frequently dip well below freezing. Combine heavy snow with biting winds and occasional ice storms, and your commercial property faces a real challenge.
Frozen pipes are the troublemakers of chilly months. Water trapped in pipes expands as it freezes, cracking walls and ceilings once the ice thaws. Roofs with heavy snow can sag or leak, and ice dams can turn gutters into a potential hazard.
Winter storms can also slow down your business. Parking lots become slippery, deliveries are delayed, and unplanned closures affect revenue.
Preparing for the season is crucial to continuing operations and avoiding major setbacks.
The Cost of Winter Water Damage
Local Austin businesses have faced everything from flooded basements to burst pipes, forcing some to close for days. A small leak can spiral into thousands of dollars in repairs, mold remediation, and equipment replacement.
Picture a coffee shop downtown that experiences frozen pipes during a January cold snap. Water ruins flooring, cabinets, and espresso machines. The shop shuts its doors for a week, and the combined cost of repairs and lost sales quickly runs into the tens of thousands.
Scenarios like this remind us that winter preparation can be expensive but is ultimately essential.
Simple Steps to Keep the Water Flowing
Frozen pipes can turn a calm, frosty morning into a full-blown emergency. Fortunately, a little preparation now can stop that from happening. If you’re wondering how to keep pipes from freezing in your commercial building, start with these simple steps.
Inspect and Insulate Pipes
Pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, or storage rooms are prime targets. Foam sleeves, insulation blankets, or heating cables can act like winter jackets for your plumbing. Checking pipes early prevents weak spots from bursting.
Seal Gaps and Cracks
Cold air sneaking in can spell disaster for plumbing. Seal cracks around windows, doors, and walls. Small drafts can create icy pockets inside walls and put pipes at risk. Weather stripping and caulk are simple fixes that go a long way.
Install Heat Tape
Heat tape is like a cozy scarf for pipes. Wrap it around especially vulnerable areas to provide extra warmth. It’s a small step that can stop pipes from cracking and avoid costly water damage.
Keep Thermostats Consistent
Set your thermostat above 55°F day and night. Fluctuating temperatures increase the risk of frozen pipes. A steady heat level is like a safety net for your plumbing, even if the building is empty for a few days.
Shut Off Exterior Faucets
Outdoor faucets and irrigation systems are magnets for winter damage. Turn off the water, drain hoses, and use insulated covers to protect these pipes.
Winterizing the Rest of Your Property
Winter prep goes beyond plumbing. Secure your property with these additional strategies:
Maintain Roofs and Gutters
Clean gutters and remove debris from roofs. Heavy snow and ice dams can create leaks or even structural problems. Keeping your roof clear is a small task that keeps snow from making a mess in your business.
Check Heating Systems
Have heating systems serviced before the first freeze. A working heating system keeps interiors warm, reduces strain on pipes, and prevents emergency breakdowns.
Inspect Storm Windows and Doors
Weather stripping and storm windows are your building’s first line of defense. Inspect them and replace any worn pieces. Proper insulation shields your pipes and helps lower your energy bills.
Clear Walkways and Parking Lots
Snow and ice can create liability issues and slow traffic flow. Arrange snow removal and apply ice melt on walkways and parking areas. It looks out for employees, visitors, and business operations.
The Team Austin Businesses Count On When It Gets Cold
ServiceMaster by Rice – Austin is your go-to partner for keeping your business safe when winter bites. They tackle the real headaches of cold weather, like frozen pipes, sneaky leaks, and water damage that can pop up when you least expect it. From pre-winter inspections to emergency restoration, their team knows how to navigate Austin’s snowy streets and icy conditions. Whether your business is downtown, near Mower County Medical Center, or out in the industrial park, they’re ready to step in.
Keep the Chill Outside and Business Booming
Between the freezing temps and those surprise snow dumps, it’s easy for small maintenance issues to turn into big problems fast. So, insulate those pipes, seal up drafts, check the roof, and make sure your heating system is good to go.
Getting ahead of the frost can save you from the icy chaos. If you’re still unsure how to keep pipes from freezing or want expert guidance, ServiceMaster by Rice – Austin is here to help local businesses stay protected all winter long. Give their team a call before the next cold snap hits, and rest easy knowing your property’s ready for whatever the icy season throws its way.
