Winter is just around the corner here in Columbus, OH. The season brings with it several concerns for an owner of a multifamily property. First, proper winterization is critical for keeping your property in good shape and ensuring the happiness of your residents. Second, proper winterizing also helps you catch any minor issues now that could turn into costly emergency repairs if left unattended.
Winterizing your multifamily property
In Columbus, OH, winters can get cold, and winter storms are bound to happen. However, the more prepared you are now, the smoother your winter months are likely to go. When it comes to winterizing your property, there are some necessities to check. These include:
- Being Prepared: Winter storms do happen in Columbus, OH. It is better to have a plan in place now before the snow starts to fall. You should have an emergency winter weather plan ready. This can include touching base with any seasonal contractors you employ, ensuring any heavy equipment such as snow blowers are ready, and having an ample supply of road salt on hand.
- Inspecting Water Pipes: One of the last things you want to deal with in the middle of winter is a frozen or burst water pipe, leading to expensive damages and emergency services that can be quite costly. Be sure to take the time to inspect the piping system throughout the home, especially in areas that are prone to be colder, such as the basement. There are numerous ways to insulate pipes, including self-sealing foam tubes and insulating tape.
- Checking All Seals: A bad window seal not only allows uncomfortable drafts in the home but also wastes energy and can lead to high utility bills. You’ll want to make sure all the windows are properly sealed, as well as doors and any other cracks that may allow the frigid winter air inside. Be sure to repair and caulk all necessary cracks before the weather turns too cold. This also includes checking weather stripping and exterior door sweeps.
- Inspecting Furnaces and Boilers: You’ll want to ensure your heating system is ready for the long winter months. Your tenants rely on you to make sure that they will always come home to a warm house in the winter. Your HVAC systems should have routine maintenance done to ensure they are working at top efficiency. Check that units are clear and any parts or filters that need replacement are replaced. By taking small preventive steps, you can help make sure you won’t have to worry about more significant, costly issues.
- Making Sure Gutters Are Clean: Improper drainage, especially in Columbus, which sees a lot of snow, can cause significant water damage as temperatures warm. Water damage can impact the structural integrity of your home and lead to expensive repairs in the spring. Be sure to inspect the gutters, clearing them of all debris.
- Roofing and Siding: Your roof can take a lot of damage throughout the seasons, especially in the winter. Be sure that your roof is free of any debris that may have accumulated in other seasons. In addition, check to ensure that you aren’t missing any essential roofing materials that could expose the interior of your multifamily property to further damages. Your siding is equally as important. Be sure that your siding is secure and isn’t missing any paneling. This could cause structural damage and provide an entry point for unwanted critters looking to escape the cold. Contact us for commercial roof repair in Columbus, Ohio.
- Leaning Trees and Branches: Inspect all trees around your property. A winter storm could badly impact a dying tree’s structural integrity. Snow can weigh down branches, causing them to break. You’ll want to cut away any branches that could pose a danger to the home if they were to break. If you have a tree at risk of coming down due to leaning, it may be a better investment to remove the tree before the ground gets too hard.
- Open Communication with Tenants: You can’t be on your property 24/7. Be sure that your tenants understand the importance of communicating any issues with you ASAP. They should have a clear idea of how you want issues addressed. Be sure that you follow up and take care of the issue promptly. This helps solidify your relationship and shows that they can trust you to provide them with a well-maintained home.
Trust the experts
There are numerous winterizing projects that you can handle yourself, but there are also instances where it is best to turn to a professional. There are many elements to consider when it comes to winterizing your multifamily property in Columbus, OH. You’ll want to check your HVAC system, piping, insulation, seals, as well as the overall exterior of the property. Contractors Inc specializes in numerous areas of maintenance. Our experienced staff understands the importance of winterizing your property and can handle all aspects of the process. Contact us today to learn about all we can do for you before the winter months hit.
