Preparing Your Home or Business for Inclement Weather
January in Colorado Springs is synonymous with frigid temperatures, unpredictable snowstorms, and icy conditions. These factors can wreak havoc on homes and businesses if they're unprepared for what the weather might bring. While Colorado’s beauty during winter is undeniable, it also comes with unique challenges for property owners.
Fortunately, with the right preparation and help from professionals, you can safeguard your property against the harsh conditions of the winter months. ServiceMaster of Colorado Springs provides unparalleled restoration and mitigation services for weather-related damage.
Preparing Your Home for Winter Weather
Your home is your sanctuary, and taking proactive steps can save you from major headaches during the chilly months. Below are some ways you can effectively prepare your home for winter weather conditions:
Prepare Your Plumbing
Freezing pipes are among the most common issues during the winter. To prevent this, insulate pipes in unheated areas like basements, garages, or crawl spaces. Disconnect garden hoses and drain exterior faucets to prevent the water inside them from freezing and cracking. Be sure you can also identify your main water shut-off valve so you can act quickly in case of a burst pipe.
Inspect Your Roof and Gutters
Heavy snow accumulations can lead to leaks or even roof collapses. To prepare your roof, make sure to check thoroughly for any missing shingles or potential weak spots. Clear your gutters of leaves and debris so melting snow can properly drain. You may also want to consider installing ice dams or heat cables to prevent ice from forming along your roofline.
Seal Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors not only make your home chilly but also increase heating costs. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal gaps. This simple prevention step helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and reduces the risk of extreme cold causing internal damage to the pipes and walls within your home.
Stock an Emergency Kit
Snowstorms can sometimes cut off access to roads and power sources, making an emergency kit an invaluable resource. We recommend including the following items in your emergency kit:
- Non-perishable food and drinking water.
- Flashlights with extra batteries.
- Blankets and cold-weather clothing.
- Backup power sources, such as a generator or solar charger for the use of essential electronic devices.
Trim Trees and Branches
Colorado Springs is known for high winds during our winter storms. Trim back trees and branches hanging near your house or power lines to minimize the risk of property damage or power outages.
Preparing Your Business for Winter Weather
Homeowners aren’t the only ones who need to prep for winter. Businesses are equally at risk and must take preventive measures to run operations smoothly. Some ways you can prepare your business for inclement weather include:
Reinforce Your Building’s Exterior
Storms and freezing winds can take a toll on commercial buildings. Protect your business by inspecting the roof and siding for any potential weak spots and making repairs. Add weatherstripping to doors and windows and install insulation to prevent pipes from freezing.
Snow and Ice Management
Safety is a top concern for any business. A safe environment for employees and customers reflects professionalism and keeps your business compliant with safety standards. Prevent slips and falls on your property by shoveling snow and spreading salt on sidewalks, parking lots, and entryways. You may also want to consider heated mats or other snow-melting systems for walkways and/or keeping emergency ice-melt supplies on hand.
Protect Technology and Equipment
Unpredictable power outages and severe cold can damage business electronics. To safeguard your operations, install surge protectors to minimize damage from power surges during outages. Utilize climate-controlled areas for storing valuable inventory and invest in a backup generator to keep operations running if the power goes out.
Create a Winter Emergency Plan
A well-organized emergency plan helps your team understand how to properly respond to winter weather challenges. Communicate closures, create a system for remote work if needed, and prepare a contact list for any key personnel and vendors.
Why Quick Action Matters for Winter Storms
Despite the best preparations, winter can still throw surprises at you. Early and swift action is crucial in minimizing long-term damage to your home or business. Problems such as flooding, mold growth, or smoke damage can escalate quickly if not addressed promptly.
If disaster strikes this winter, don't wait. Contact ServiceMaster of Colorado Springs today to schedule a service.