Much of our beautiful country sees plenty of snow during the winter season. Snowfall can create more tasks for your to-do list as early as October, depending on where you live. Commercial property owners and managers know that snow and ice can create many issues, from property damage to safety hazards.
Preparing in advance for commercial property snow removal can save time, money, and prevent potential liability. Here are ten essential tips for getting your property winter-ready.
Schedule a Fall Cleanup
Clearing leaves, debris, and any lingering clutter from your property is essential before winter arrives. Leaves and plant matter left on walkways and lawns can freeze, creating slippery surfaces and potentially causing snow mold, damaging your landscape. A thorough cleanup sets the stage for efficient snow removal and protects your property’s appearance and health through the colder months.
Shut Down and Winterize Irrigation Systems
Freezing temperatures can cause any remaining water in your irrigation pipes to expand and burst, leading to costly repairs in the spring. To avoid damage and ensure your system is ready to go when warmer weather returns, shut down your system properly, clear out any remaining water, and have it winterized.
Trim Trees and Shrubs
Heavy, wet snow and ice weigh down branches. If they snap, they pose a risk to nearby cars, buildings, and people. Prune any dead, weak, or overgrown branches to reduce the chance of winter storm damage. Pruning can also prevent branches from interfering with snow removal equipment, making the clearing process smoother and safer.
Inspect Hardscapes for Hazards
Walk through your property to check for cracks, uneven pavement, or any debris that could be a tripping hazard or damage to snow removal equipment. Addressing these issues now helps ensure a safe environment for staff and visitors and reduces the risk of further damage when the plows start clearing snow.
Mark Driveway and Walkway Boundaries
When snow covers your property, it’s easy for plows to inadvertently hit curbs, landscaping, or other features. Mark boundaries with stakes or flags to indicate where walkways, driveways, and other important areas begin and end. This can help your snow removal team work more efficiently and avoid damage to property features.
Wrap and Protect Sensitive Plants
Cold temperatures and winter winds can damage sensitive plants, particularly new trees or those with thin bark. Use burlap or tree wrap to protect these plants from the harsh winter conditions. This step will help your landscaping survive the winter and look its best come spring.
Stock Up on Deicing Products
Ensure your property has a ready supply of salt or other deicing agents to keep walkways and entrances safe. Regular application of deicing products reduces ice buildup and helps prevent slips and falls. If you manage a large property, consider setting up an agreement with your snow removal provider to store these materials on-site for quick access.
Plan Snow Equipment Storage
If your property requires heavy-duty equipment like skid steers or loaders for snow removal, coordinate storage space for this equipment to ensure it’s readily accessible when needed. Large properties might benefit from having essential equipment on-site, especially during heavy snowstorms, to minimize downtime and ensure quick access during extreme conditions.
Hire Summit Property Group in Advance
Don’t wait until the first snowfall to secure your snow removal services. By hiring Summit Property Group ahead of time, you’ll have the peace of mind that your property is on our priority list, no matter how early or intense the winter season may be. Early planning allows us to create a customized snow removal strategy for your property, including where to safely pile snow and how to handle varying weather conditions.
Conduct a Walkthrough with Your Snow Removal Team
Every property has unique needs and potential problem areas. Schedule a walkthrough with your snow removal team to discuss your priorities, establish snow pile zones, and ensure everyone is on the same page before winter begins. This will help the team understand your site better, allowing them to handle snow removal with precision and avoid damage to landscaping and property features.
Summit Property Group is Here to Help This Winter
Canadian winters can be unpredictable, but with the right preparation, you can keep your commercial property safe, accessible, and visually appealing all season long. Don’t leave it to chance—plan ahead to prevent winter-related issues and save time and money in the long run.
With years of experience in commercial property maintenance, Summit Property Group is your trusted partner for efficient and reliable commercial property snow removal. Our proven approach, attention to detail, and commitment to our customer’s satisfaction ensure your property will be well-maintained, no matter the weather.