Is Your Business Ready for Storm Season? 🌪️
Is Your Business Ready for Storm Season? 🌪️
Last year the UK was hit by a record number of named storms. To be fair, we have only been naming storms for the past decade, but even so, the frequency and intensity are increasing. These storms brought record low temperatures, heavy rain and gale-force winds that tested buildings across the country.
Now, as the nights draw in and the days get shorter, it is the perfect time to start preparing your business for the winter months ahead. At AM Planned Maintenance, we know how important it is to stay one step ahead of the weather, so here are our top tips for protecting your property this storm season:
1️. Get the roof checked
With winters becoming warmer and wetter, roofs are under pressure to handle more rainfall than ever. A professional inspection as part of regular property maintenance can identify loose tiles, damaged flashing or other weak points before leaks set in.
2️. Inspect windows
Cracked panes, broken seals and gaps in frames allow cold air and condensation to creep in. Checking windows now can save you from draughty offices and high heating bills later.
3️. Review external surfaces
Look for peeling paint, worn varnish or exposed woodwork on external structures. A fresh coat of paint or varnish is a simple but effective way to reseal and protect against the elements, and it is one of the easiest property maintenance tasks to tick off before winter.
4️. Seal entry points against pests
As the mercury drops, rats and other small animals go looking for shelter. Filling holes and checking for gaps is an easy way to stop unwanted visitors moving in.
5️. Clear the gutters
The UK averages around 1.2 metres of rain each year, much of it falling in autumn and winter. Make sure your gutters and downpipes are clear of leaves and debris so water can flow freely. Blockages can quickly lead to leaks and structural damage.
6️. Insulate exposed pipes
Frozen pipes can burst and cause huge disruption. Protecting any pipework that runs externally or through unheated areas is one of the simplest preventative measures you can take.
7️. Service your heating system
Your boiler and heating system will be working hard over the coming months. A routine service now ensures it is safe, efficient and ready to keep your staff and customers warm.
8️. Check emergency lighting and signage
Storms often bring power cuts. Make sure your emergency lighting and exit signs are working correctly to keep staff and customers safe in the dark.
9️. Secure outdoor fixtures and signage
High winds can turn loose signage, bins, or garden furniture into dangerous projectiles. Walk around your property and secure or store anything that could be blown away.
10. Review your business continuity plan
Sometimes, despite the best preparation, the unexpected happens. Having a clear plan for who to call, how to communicate with staff, and what steps to take in the event of major disruption will save valuable time.
💡 Preparing your building for winter might take a little time, but it can prevent costly repairs and business disruption down the line.
At AM Planned Maintenance, we specialise in property maintenance, both reactive and planned, to keep businesses safe, warm and weather-ready. Whether it is a quick repair, preventative work, or long-term support, our engineers are only ever a call away