How to Winterize Your Commercial Properties

1/23/2019 (Permalink)

Due to the harsh winters the NYC area experiences, it's important that you winterize your commercial property. 

Prevent Freezing Pipes 
Since water expands when it freezes, a frozen pipe can burst and result in flooding. Take steps to protect your property from freezing pipes. First, you should use fiberglass or foam sleeves to insulate your most vulnerable pipes, which are the ones in exterior walls, crawlspaces, and unheated basements. 

Next, open the doors to your utility room and other unheated areas where pipes are located. This will allow warm air to circulate in those spaces. 

Finally, properties that are vacant for all or part of the winter are more likely to experience water damage from freezing pipes. While the property is unoccupied, the heat should be set no lower than 55 degrees. 

Clean Gutters and Downspouts 
Before severe weather hits New York, have your gutters and downspouts cleaned. When debris blocks gutters and downspouts, mounds of ice along the roof edge known as ice dams are more likely to form. The weight of an ice dam can tear the gutter off the building. 

Have a Snow Plan 
Since New York City gets two to three feet of snow during winter, you need to have a snow plan in place for your property. If you don't have employees that can handle snow removal, you should hire a company to perform this service. Make sure your contract clearly states what areas of your property require snow removal. Your snow removal plan should provide safe access for employees, customers, and emergency personnel. 

At SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan, we hope all of our NYC neighbors enjoy a safe winter. However, if winter weather damages your home or business, SERVPRO of Midtown Manhattan can help. Call us at (212) 768-9400.