Top 5 Ways to Winterize a Commercial Property Building

As temperatures drop, preparing your commercial property for winter is essential to avoid costly repairs, maintain safety, and ensure uninterrupted operations. From freezing pipes to roof leaks, cold weather poses unique risks to large-scale facilities, making a proactive maintenance plan critical.

Whether you manage a multi-tenant office building, industrial site, or multifamily community, here are the top five things you can do to winterize your commercial property and keep your building in optimal condition all season long.

1. Inspect and Protect Plumbing Systems

Frozen or burst pipes are among the most common, and most expensive, winter property damages. Before freezing temperatures arrive, schedule a full plumbing system inspection.

• Insulate exposed or exterior piping, especially in unheated areas like mechanical rooms or parking garages.

• Test all heat trace systems and make sure thermostats are functioning properly.

• Identify low-flow or unused fixtures and ensure water is fully drained where possible.

• Have an emergency plan for rapid water shutoff in case of a burst or leak.

Preventive plumbing maintenance not only protects against water damage but also minimizes downtime during an emergency.

2. Evaluate Roofing and Drainage Systems

Winter precipitation and freezing temperatures can take a toll on roofing systems. A thorough commercial roof inspection can identify vulnerabilities before snow or ice accumulation causes damage.

• Clear roof drains, scuppers, and gutters to prevent pooling and ice damming.

• Inspect flashing, joints, and seams for gaps or deterioration.

• Check rooftop HVAC curbs and penetrations for proper sealing.

• Verify that roof access and safety measures are secure for maintenance crews.

Proper roof and drainage maintenance ensures water flows away from the building and helps prevent leaks or structural damage.

3. Check and Service HVAC and Building Controls

Keeping your tenants comfortable and your systems efficient depends on a well-maintained HVAC system. As demand increases in colder months, now is the time to ensure everything is working as intended.

• Replace filters and clean coils.

• Test heating systems and calibrate thermostats.

• Inspect dampers and economizers to ensure proper airflow.

• Review building automation systems for accurate scheduling and temperature control.

A winter-ready HVAC maintenance plan also helps control energy costs and reduces emergency service calls during peak heating demand.

4. Inspect Weatherproofing, Doors, and Windows

Air leaks and poor insulation waste energy and make indoor temperatures difficult to manage. Take time to inspect all exterior doors, dock bays, and windows for gaps or damaged seals.

• Replace worn weather stripping and door sweeps.

• Recaulk windows and expansion joints as needed.

• Verify that automatic closers and gaskets are functioning properly.

• Inspect loading docks and garage doors for drafts or mechanical wear.

Proactive weatherproofing not only improves energy efficiency but also contributes to better tenant comfort and lower operational costs.

5. Prepare for Storm Response and Emergency Restoration

Even with the best preventive maintenance, severe winter weather can still lead to unexpected damage, from burst pipes to flooding or roof collapses. Having an emergency plan and trusted restoration partner in place can make all the difference.

• Review your emergency response protocols with staff and tenants.

• Verify that emergency contact lists are current and accessible.

• Ensure backup power systems and sump pumps are tested and ready.

• Partner with Sasser Restoration for 24/7 response and mitigation services.

With a plan in place, you can act quickly when every minute counts— minimizing business interruption and protecting property value.

Partner with Sasser Restoration for Winter Preparedness

At Sasser Restoration, we partner with commercial property owners, facility managers, and community associations to help you prepare for and respond to winter weather challenges. Our team specializes in water damage mitigation, plumbing failures, and full-service property restoration for large-scale facilities across multiple industries.

Stay ahead of the cold this season and make sure your property is ready for whatever winter brings.

Contact a Sasser Professional