Operating your own business is fraught with responsibilities. It may seem like there is not enough time in the day to get everything done. But one thing you should definitely make time for is preventative maintenance. Keep your facility in good working order to avoid expensive repairs down the road.
Inspect the Roof
As your building ages, keep an eye on your roof. Look for missing or damaged shingles, especially after a windstorm as well. Pelting rain or heavy snow and ice buildup can really make roof maintenance harder to perform. Schedule an inspection with a commercial roofing company every couple of years to look for things you can’t easily spot. Areas like the chimney, gutters, and downspouts may have small but significant leaks that could be causing water damage to the building. A broken chimney cap could let in birds, squirrels, bats, and rodents as well as insects, all of which might build nests or take up residence in your home, making them harder to remove when you become aware of their existence.
Schedule Routine HVAC Maintenance
The heat, ventilation, and air conditioning system should be serviced every year or two to find any hidden problems. Schedule expert maintenance to see if new parts are needed or if a professional cleaning should be done. Furnaces typically last between ten and fifteen years or a little longer for some. As your unit ages, make sure it is not damaged and leaking gas fumes or carbon monoxide, which is odorless and colorless but highly lethal. Change the filters at least twice a year or more often if needed.
Check the Plumbing
Plumbing is sometimes called the lifeline of a building since water is used in many ways. Toilets, sinks, laundry facilities, and dishwashers are some of the everyday uses of water, so it is important to keep the plumbing system fully operational. Check your water lines for signs of leaks or drips. Take note of any signs of mold on the floors, walls, or ceilings, which may indicate an invisible water leak. While you’re at it, inspect the windows and doors for signs of water damage due to invasive moisture.
Assess the Structure
Once a year, take a close look at the basement or foundational structure of the facility. Look for crumbling cement or mortar as well as evidence of slippage that may require tuckpoint repair. See if you can spot signs of termites, carpenter ants, or rodent infestations and deal with them promptly.
A solid building for your business can keep insurance rates down when you don’t have to file damage claims. Your business’s heating and cooling bills will be cheaper with the systems working efficiently. You can also avoid expensive repair bills with preventative maintenance on the important elements of your facility.
