A little preparedness goes a long way toward protecting your self storage facility from winter weather damage.
Shield your storage business from severe conditions, protect your staff and tenants, and keep the possessions in your care safe with these important steps.
Inspect Your Storage Facility
Take a walk around your property and look for anything that may need to be repaired. Moisture can seep into any cracks or damaged surfaces in your building structure. Make sure to find and fix any of these issues before the cold and wet weather moves in.
TIP: Repair potholes before the winter weather makes them worse. And protect your tenants and staff from potholes hidden by the snow.
Knowing the condition of your storage facility and any areas that could potentially be affected by heavy snow or ice is also a great idea. This way, when the winter weather hits, you know exactly where to check to make sure your facility is holding up well.
Fix Any Roof, Gutter, or Tree Issues
Snow and ice build-up creates a ton of weight! Make sure your roof is prepared to handle it. Check to see if any spots need to be patched or reinforced. Clean out your gutters and make sure they will drain the melting runoff properly. Trim tree branches around your structure, power lines, and over your lot and driveway to prevent damage from falling limbs and power outages caused by downed lines.
Insulate Pipes, Windows, and Doors
The last thing you want in the winter is a flooded facility caused by a frozen pipe that burst! Learn about the proper way to insulate water pipes and keep your storage units dry.
Check all your doors and windows for drafts and gaps in sealant. Repair, fill gaps, and caulk as needed to protect your storage facility from the cold air.
Get Heating Systems and Thermostats Up to Date
You may need to bring in a professional heating and air technician for this. Your heating system needs to be ready to handle the demand of temperature control your storage building needs for the winter. Make sure your heating system is up-to-date and in great condition before it’s needed.
TIP: Don’t forget to check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors!
If your self storage facility is climate-controlled, it’s important to check the thermostats daily to ensure the facility is staying at the right temperature during this extreme season.
Be Prepared to Get Help From Vendors- This Includes Snow Removal!
Prepare for the inevitability that something will get damaged by the winter weather elements and will need the attention of an outside contractor or vendor. Find their contact information and make sure it’s all up to date, so you know exactly who to call and can act quickly to get your facility back in top operating condition.
When it comes to snow and ice removal, it’s best to hire experts. Companies providing this service can plow, de-ice, and shovel your property early enough to have your storage facility accessible to your staff and tenants in time for regular business hours.
TIP: Give the contractor a map of your facility, showing all the areas that need their service, to make this process more efficient, and to make sure every spot you need to be cleared gets attention.
Make sure all the companies you hire for winter maintenance and repairs are insured! And take time to shop around and even collect bids before choosing the right services.
Stock Up on Winter Supplies
Having basic winter supplies on hand will help keep your storage facility tenants and staff safe from personal injuries on your property. Keep salt and shovels handy to keep walkways clear between snow removal services. De-icer can help tenants with frozen locks. Floor mats, mops, and caution signs can help keep your floors dry and prevent slips.
Give Your Tenants Winter Storage Tips
Your self storage tenants can do a lot to winterize their units of belongings as well. The best way they can pack their storage unit is to keep things off the floor by using wooden pallets or shelving toward the back of the storage unit. Replacing any damaged or worn boxes and bins can further protect their possessions from mold caused by any moisture that could potentially get into the unit. Send Email or SMS notifications to your tenants with tips to help them have the best experience at your storage facility during this harsh season.
Succeed with Self Storage Solutions from 6Storage
Winter weather doesn’t have to wreak havoc on your self storage facility. Preparing your property, staff, and tenants for freezing temperatures, snow, and ice will safeguard your business.
Owning and operating self storage facilities requires a strong foundation in order to succeed. Accelerate achievements with smart self storage solutions.
From cloud-based self storage management software to a reliable remote gate access system, 6Storage offers user-friendly support to the self storage industry. In addition, 6Storage offers website services and an advanced 3D storage calculator.
If you’re looking for affordable self storage solutions designed by industry experts offered at competitive prices, look no further than 6Storage! Contact us to level up your storage business and experience our white-glove service.
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