Assert discipline with winter damage prevention

Winter is the rebellious teenager of the seasons - forever trying to freeze everything in its path, beautiful and innocent from behind a barrier, tends to leave a contagious trail of major attitude in its wake - you get the gist.

Much like all rebellious teenagers, all this season needs is a little extra TLC, logical strategy and patience, challenging as it may be. Legend has it, the most successful disciplinary approach is called 'winter damage prevention.' It negotiates from a place of education, establishes calm control through preparedness, and sends all outbursts to their bedroom. With this strategic plan, property managers and contractors can stand tall as winter warriors, safeguarding their properties against nature's harshest elements.

With radical seasonal changes on the horizon, it's time to gear up as we delve into some savvy tips to ensure your properties emerge unscathed from the frosty battlefield.

Know thy ice dams and roof concerns

Winter is its own force, so establish a safe foundation by learning to anticipate where it'll strike next. Ice dams can wreak havoc on roofs, leading to leaks and structural damage. Consider checking out some of Beacon's weatherproofing roofing solutions, and ensure proper insulation and ventilation in the attic to regulate temperature and prevent ice dam formation.

It's best to regularly inspect the roof for any damage, loose shingles, or potential weak spots that may give in to heavy snow loads.

Winterize the property early to win late

As always, the key to victory lies in preparation. Before winter sets in, conduct a thorough property inspection. Seal any cracks in the building's exterior, insulate pipes, and ensure windows and doors are airtight. Early winterization can prevent costly damage later on and help keep the property warm, cozy and peaceful.

Look out for gut punches from the gutter and pipes

Gutters and pipes play a crucial role in redirecting water within or away from the property. Perform seasonal gutter maintenance, cleaning the tracks of leaves, debris, and ice regularly to prevent clogs and ice dams. Also, insulate pipes in unheated areas and consider installing heat tape for protection.

Pro tip: Ensure that all tenants know the importance of keeping their heating on, even if they are away, to prevent pipes from freezing.

Don't take the high road, confront the sidewalks and driveways

Slippery sidewalks and driveways are hazardous and can lead to costly liability issues. Level the battlefield and prioritize salting and shovelling to clear these areas of ice and snow. Consider using eco-friendly de-icers to protect both the property and the environment.

Don't forget the wellness HVAC system checks

When nothing but emotions are running hot, a check-in may be in order. The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is the frontline defence against the winter chill. Schedule regular maintenance checks to ensure all systems are in top condition. Replace filters, check for leaks, and inspect insulation around ducts.

Call on the village for a snow removal strategy

It takes a community to harness the force of winter, so collaborate with contractors for a reliable snow removal strategy. Discuss priority areas, such as entrances, fire exits, and parking lots. Timely snow removal enhances safety and prevents potential damage to property exteriors.

Like high school, property maintenance education never ends

When winter becomes the master illusionist, making you believe stepping outside won't be so bad, only to side-swipe you with a blast of frigid wind, bundle up, count backwards from these 6 tips and try again.

By adopting a proactive approach and implementing these winter damage prevention strategies, property managers and contractors can triumph over any challenges this chapter brings. If you feel the season bending your patience like trees under the weight of snow, don't be afraid to call in professional reinforcements. As the experts in building materials and applications, Beacon is equipped for all the curveballs – especially the ones made of snow.

We can't promise when the maturation will come in, but we can prepare, protect, and conquer – so let the winter battle begin!