As the summer begins to wind down, maintenance managers should be thinking about preparing their property for the changing seasons and cooler weather. From safely storing summer equipment to seasonal maintenance and preparing for winter’s arrival, there are several steps maintenance managers can take to stay proactive before fall even arrives:

• Complete all seasonal repairs or projects. Standard latex and acrylic paints require daytime temperatures above 10°C and nighttime lows safely above 2°C to 4°C for 24 to 48 hours to cure properly, so ensure that any exterior painting is complete in time.
• Once all summer maintenance and repairs have been completed, ensure to safely store all materials and equipment so that they can be used again next year when needed. Some equipment, like lawn mowers, need to be cleaned, have the gas emptied, and have the oil changed before storing it for the season.
• If you have an irrigation system, consider adjusting the settings to reduce watering frequency and prevent root rot and discourage turf disease, along with lowering your water bills.
• For groundskeeping, aerating and over seeding in the late summer or early fall can help to fill any bare patches, raising mower heights helps protect the roots, and slow-release fertilizer helps strengthen those roots. Don’t forget to prune and remove any annual flower beds so it’s tidy for spring.
• Practice seasonal maintenance on your HVAC system by changing or cleaning air filters, inspecting heating elements, and checking the drain lines for clogs or algae buildup.
• Check your roof for summer damage and clear away any debris to allow for proper fall drainage.
• Look for air leakage spots that can overwork your HVAC system and increase heating bills. Re-seal and caulk windows, install door sweeps, and fill all exterior penetrations.
• Check parking lots, pathways, and stairwells for damage or tripping hazards. Ensure that these are repaired before icy conditions exacerbate existing issues.
• Confirm that all outdoor lighting is functional. Change bulbs, where necessary, to ensure that dark areas are lit once the sun starts to set earlier. Adjust timers and motion sensors to account for earlier darkness through the fall and winter.
• Consider emergency preparedness. Check smoke, carbon monoxide, and fire alarm systems seasonally. Update any emergency plans at the same time, training staff so they are up to date. Also inspect any backup systems like generators to confirm they are in working order, should you need them during extreme weather.

Late summer is the perfect time for maintenance managers to perform seasonal maintenance and ensure that the building is prepared for the upcoming colder weather.