Fall is here, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to prepare your facilities for colder weather and the challenges of the season ahead. A proactive maintenance plan now will save time, money, and headaches later, helping you avoid emergencies and keep your operations running smoothly.

No matter what type of facility you manage, whether it is a school, municipality, non-profit, multi-housing property, place of worship, manufacturing plant, or commercial building, these preventive steps will help you stay ahead.

1. Debris and Drainage

• Rake leaves and remove debris from lawns and hardscapes to prevent mold and pests
• Clean gutters, downspouts, and storm drains so water flows freely and will not freeze
• Clear roof valleys and flat roof drains of twigs and sediment to avoid pooling and water damage

2. Turf and Soil Care

• Overseed bare or thin turf areas to establish grass before frost
• Apply mulch around perennials to insulate roots and conserve moisture
• Aerate lawns and apply fall fertilizer to promote deep root growth over winter

3. Plant and Pruning

• Trim back perennials and ornamental grasses after frost to tidy beds and prevent disease
• Inspect and stake young trees to prevent leaning or breakage during storms
• Prune dead or weak branches on trees and shrubs to reduce wind and ice damage

4. Pest Prevention

• Check and refill outdoor bait stations or traps for insects and rodents
• Inspect foundations, door thresholds, and window frames for gaps and seal to block rodent entry
• Clear vegetation from building perimeters to eliminate pest harborage

5. Hardscape and Pavements

• Clean and seal stone or concrete surfaces to extend their lifespan
• Inspect retaining walls and edging for movement or erosion and reinforce as needed
• Examine walkways, patios, and driveways for cracks or potholes, fill and seal to prevent freeze-thaw damage

6. Irrigation and Equipment

• Test back flow preventers for proper operation and winterize valves
• Drain, service, and store seasonal equipment in a dry, sheltered area
• Blow out irrigation lines with compressed air and shut off the water supply to prevent freeze damage

7. Check Safety and Emergency Equipment

• Test fire alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and emergency lighting
• Confirm fire extinguishers are inspected and up to date
• Review emergency preparedness plans with your team

8. Prioritize Energy Efficiency

• Inspect doors and windows for drafts and seal where needed
• Calibrate building controls to avoid energy waste
• Consider energy audits to identify cost-saving opportunities

Stay Organized with HelixIntel

Preventive maintenance is most effective when tracked, scheduled, and documented. HelixIntel helps organizations of all sizes and across every industry simplify maintenance management, extend asset life, and stay compliant, all from one easy-to-use platform.

Let’s work together to make this your most prepared year yet. 

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