Spring is almost here and that means a spring tune up on the maintenance of your commercial property! Commercial maintenance is similar to residential check-ups – think spring cleaning to air out the property from being closed up all winter.

Commercial properties also have their own set of tasks to make sure that they’re ready for the warmer seasons. Standard clean ups, and checking on the mechanicals in the building that have been dormant through winter are just some of the necessary things to check during your spring tune up.

Here is a task list for you to double check to make sure you don’t miss out on anything during your commercial building spring maintenance check!

Commercial Spring Cleaning

1. Start by washing the windows. Now that the sun is shining more, why not bring it into the building? Clean all the building’s windows which may be caked with dirt and debris from snow, ice, and other winter weather. Check all the window storms for cracks or breaks, as well as checking the screens for holes. If you notice any issues, replace or repair the storms and screens as needed.
2. Clean the floors. During the winter, floors are the first to take a beating. Winter weather will track in snow, ice, salt, and other dirt into the building. It’s time to deep clean the carpets and floor mats, and give hardwood or vinyl floors a good scrub and wax.
3. Wash and sanitize the restrooms. While restrooms are cleaned on a regular basis, springtime is the perfect time to do a deep clean and sanitation. Clean areas that may not regularly be disinfected, and sanitize all floors, fixtures, and walls. Don’t forget the usual cleaning methods! Also take this time to check for leaks and cracks in the plumbing – and take the time to repair or call in a professional plumber to fix the issue. This will help you prevent water damage in the future.
4. Head outside! It’s time to enjoy the changing weather and head outside! Winter is melting away, and you’ll notice that it has left bits and pieces behind in your landscaping. Rake up debris, plant new grass in areas that have worn down, trim bushes and trees, and start planting spring florals. You can also start checking the sidewalks and parking lots for large cracks and potholes that could have the potential to become safety hazards if not treated quickly.

More to Look For

Continue your spring check up with these preventative steps.

1. Check the roof. Look up and check for damage to the roof that may have been caused by heavy snows, winds, ice dams, etc. Look for loose shingles or even holes – anything that could pose a potential issue or cause water to leak inside.
2. Keep water where it belongs – outside!  While spring brings rain to help things grow, water ultimately belongs outside – not in your building. Check the property for standing water, leaks from gutters or roofs, foundation cracks, leaks in the basement, water spots, etc. These can be telltale signs of water damage, which can lead to mold infestation.
3. Check the exterior. Winter weather can wear down the outside of a building, along with age itself. Check the exterior of your building for cracks. Pay close attention to the area around doors and windows and the foundation. Also look for chipped paint and masonry, gutters that may need repair, siding that is sagging, etc.
4. Check for living pests. Have you noticed bugs and rodents are acting up lately? Keep a watchful eye out for ants, roaches, and other insects. Consider spraying the property to prevent any pests from entering the property. Don’t forget to check for any pest damage that has already happened.

Make the Most of Your Mechanicals

How’s your HVAC system? During the winter your A/C more than likely didn’t get much usage, but your heater probably worked overtime. While spring may not call for the usage of air conditioning right away, it’s best to be prepared for the warmer weather that is right around the corner.

• Start by cleaning hoses and the unit itself, clearing it of any dirt, sludge, grime, and other debris that built up during the winter months.
• Check the thermostat, wires, connectors and air flow of the unit. Make sure the operating efficiency is at 100%.
• Check all air ducts, drain pans, motors, compressors – and if you notice anything out of the ordinary repair the issue immediately.

Spring is a busy season for commercial property owners and managers. However, maintaining your building can help save you time, money, and stress in the long run!

Restoration and Construction Services for Commercial Property

McMahon Services & Construction provides services for your commercial building needs including water and sewage damage, fire and smoke damage cleanup, mold removal, roofing, siding, and remodeling. Our established history and quality workmanship provides peace of mind.

We offer FREE estimates in our Chicago, Arlington Heights, Berwyn, Des Plaines, Evanston, Mount Prospect, Grayslake, Mundelein, Libertyville, Oak Park, Palatine, Wheaton, Naperville, Waukegan, Schaumburg, Skokie, and surrounding IL service areas.