Winter weather has already arrived in some parts of the country, and with the arrival of snow in the foreseeable future, maintenance managers who develop a plan early will be better prepared to manage the winter season. Starting before the snow arrives will allow maintenance managers the time they need to properly prepare for the upcoming season.

Here is a list of steps to take to help ensure that your property is winter-ready this year:

• Start by completing a property assessment to identify any potential hazards and areas where repairs might be necessary. Include missing outdoor lighting, cracked parking lots, uneven walkways, and anything else that may present a hazard for winter visitors and staff.
• Identify areas where standing water may become an issue and address drainage. Note that more ice melt may be required in those areas to keep them free of ice throughout the winter.
• Complete minor maintenance wherever possible. Tasks like cleaning leaves and debris out of gutters and off the roof can help you avoid winter’s freeze-thaw cycle, which can potentially cause ice damming and damage.
• Examine the lines and direction in your parking lot for any touchups you can complete before winter comes. Once the lot is partially covered in snow, it can be more difficult to navigate, potentially causing confusion for visitors.
• Winterize your pipes and irrigation systems. Shut off water and insulate pipes wherever applicable to avoid cracking and burst pipes. Include landscaping in your winterizing plan by trimming foliage, pruning shrubs, and covering any new or sensitive plants to protect them from the snow.
• Plan for snow removal with a contractor or your team, strategize snow storage with a designated area if it piles up and start stocking up on shovels and salt so they are handy when you need them. Invest in portable snow blowers or snow removal equipment if applicable.
• Consider creating a formal snow removal plan with a diagram identifying curb, ramps, and designated parking spaces to keep them free of snow. This will keep your lot safer and more accessible for your visitors and staff.

Winter is right around the corner, and planning early for snow’s arrival can help maintenance managers get ahead of the potential effects to their property.