Helpful Reminders from UG2 Facilities Experts
Facility managers can barely say goodbye to summer before they are looking ahead to “the most wonderful time of the year,” a.k.a. the havoc of winter. Even in states that don’t typically get much snow, the potential for extreme weather is real, and that makes preparation key for everyone.
While winter preparedness activities span all our service areas, UG2’s janitorial and landscaping teams face particularly demanding challenges. Team UG2 experts have pulled together some tips to get you moving on your own preparations. It’s never too early to start!
- Schedule a walkthrough. Stroll the property with responsible stakeholders and note potential problem spots, areas in need of repair, and safe places to stow plowed and shoveled snow.
- Get your plan in place. Meet with your team, review lessons from last winter, and update your plan accordingly.
- Stock up on supplies like fuel and de-icers. Take inventory and making sure there are abundant amounts especially since there are still supply chain delays plaguing the country, so ordering early is key.
- Designate a weather watcher. Identify a forecast master who is responsible for monitoring the weather outlook and triggering plans.
- Set up snow removal. If your facility or campus can’t handle the snow from a major storm, establish a contract with professionals who can handle it—well ahead of time.
- Clear away debris. Every walkway, entry area, parking lot and rooftop should be cleared of clutter, trash, and potential hazards large and small.
- Trim trees and mulch landscaping. Tag overgrown or unhealthy tree branches for removal, winterize your irrigation systems, and layer three-to-five inches of mulch over vulnerable garden areas.
- Protect your greenscape. Make sure to give grass and gardens a wide berth when preparing to pile up snow that could contain harsh additives like ice melt, salt, and sand.
- Repair cracks and potholes in pavement. This goes for concrete structures of all kinds.
- Survey your rooftops. Flush gutters, secure flashings, clear drains, examine tar seals, and check for cracks and dips wherever snow and ice could accumulate.
- Inspect every piece of equipment. Make sure blowers and plows are in tip-top condition, and order replacement parts for any items that require frequent fixes.
- Winterize windows and doors. Arrange for an energy assessment, inspect your facility for gaps cracks, and install storm windows, weather stripping, and weather-appropriate entry mats.
This serves as a reminder and isn’t an exhaustive list even though it is quite long!
Partner with facility operations & maintenance teams to make sure you are fully prepared. Learn about inspecting equipment, maintenance, pipe insulation and other recommendations for O&M teams: https://ug2.com/winter-prep-strategies-operations-and-maintenance/