For a homeowner, a burst pipe is a headache. For a small business, it’s a financial disaster.
Winter weather is a significant threat to business continuity. A frozen pipe that floods your inventory, a collapsed roof from heavy snow, or a slip-and-fall accident in an icy parking lot can shut down your operations, cost you thousands in revenue, and create serious liability.
This is why a commercial winterization plan is not just maintenance—it’s an essential part of your business risk management strategy. Here is a checklist to protect your property, your employees, and your bottom line this winter.
Your Commercial Winterization Checklist
1. Plumbing and Fire Suppression Systems
This is the #1 threat. Commercial plumbing is often more complex than residential.
- Interior Plumbing: Identify and insulate all pipes in unheated areas, such as loading docks, utility closets, crawl spaces, and warehouses.
- Exterior Plumbing: Shut off, drain, and blow out all exterior spigots and irrigation systems.
- Fire Sprinklers: This is critical. Know what kind of system you have.
- “Wet” Systems (pipes are full of water) in unheated areas must be properly insulated and heated.
- “Dry” Systems (pipes are full of compressed air) must have their low-point drains properly serviced to remove any condensation that could freeze and block the system.
2. Roof, Gutters, and Drainage
A flat or low-slope roof, common on commercial buildings, is highly vulnerable.
- Inspect the Roof: Have a professional roofer inspect the roof membrane for any cracks, blisters, or punctures that could leak during a heavy snowmelt.
- Clear All Drains: This is non-negotiable. Flat roof drains must be clear of leaves and debris. A clogged drain will turn your roof into a “swimming pool” of heavy snow and ice, leading to leaks or, in a worst-case scenario, collapse.
- Check Gutters & Downspouts: Ensure they are clear and securely attached. Ice dams can form, pushing water back up under the roof.
3. The Building Envelope (Ingress & Egress)
Stop cold air and water from getting in.
- Air Seal: Check for drafts around loading dock doors, windows, and utility penetrations. Use weatherstripping and caulk to seal them. This protects pipes and lowers your heating bill.
- Check Entryways: Ensure all door sweeps and thresholds are in good condition to keep blowing snow and water out.
4. HVAC and Heating Systems
Your heating system is your primary defense. If it fails, your pipes are next.
- Schedule Professional Service: Have an HVAC technician service all your heating units before the cold weather hits.
- Change Filters: Start the season with clean filters for better efficiency and air quality.
- Protect Outdoor Units: Ensure rooftop or ground-level HVAC units are clear of snow and ice buildup.
5. Parking Lots & Walkways (Liability)
For a business, ice isn’t just a hazard; it’s a lawsuit.
- Have a Plan: Have a snow and ice removal contractor lined up before the first storm.
- Stock Up: Have ample supplies of ice melt and sand on hand for all pedestrian walkways and entry areas.
- Check Lighting: Winter is dark. Ensure all exterior lighting in your parking lot and walkways is functional to help people see icy patches.
Don’t Let Winter Shut You Down
A single day of forced closure due to a winter-related disaster can cost a small business far more than the price of prevention. Taking the time to winterize your commercial building protects your property, ensures employee and customer safety, and guarantees business continuity.
If your business has suffered a winter-related disaster like a flood or roof leak, you need a commercial restoration partner who understands the urgency. Call our 24/7 emergency response team to get your business back up and running as fast as possible.
