Melting snow and ice can pose hazards to both motorists and pedestrians. So, as a property owner, what can you do to protect the public and lower liability claims? The answer is to invest in commercial property snow removal services. Proactive property management ensures safety, protects your assets, maintains normal business operations, and boosts your company’s brand and reputation.
Understanding the Risks of Melting Snow and Ice
- Ice Dams: Ice dams form along the edge of roofs, preventing melting snow from draining off the building. These ridges of ice can cause water to back up and leak into the structure. Water that settles at the edge of the roof then refreezes in the gutters. It can also be an overhead hazard for pedestrians.
- Water Pooling and Flooding Risks: Excess melting snow can strain or clog drainage systems throughout commercial properties. Uneven surfaces and catch basins are prime locations for built-up icy patches. As temperatures rise, the melting snow and ice can pool and cause flooding in these areas.
- Damage to Parking Lots, Sidewalks, and Landscaping: Repeated freezing and thawing periods throughout the winter can cause cracks and potholes in parking lots and on walkways. Melting snow and ice can also affect the health of trees, shrubs, and soil.
- Liability Issues: Wet and icy surfaces increase the risk of slip-and-fall accidents, which are the number one cause of injury during the winter season. Liability claims for personal injuries are common when surfaces are slick both inside and outside of a business.
Proactive Steps to Manage Melting Snow and Ice
- Proper Drainage Solutions: Drainage solutions for snowmelt are crucial to prevent ice and snow from building up. Make sure storm drains and gutters are well maintained and ensure snow piles are located away from high-risk areas.
- De-icing Strategies: Applying salt and sand for traction is an important safety measure for commercial properties. Eco-friendly de-icing alternatives do not damage asphalt and concrete surfaces and protect the surrounding landscape.
- Regular Snow and Ice Maintenance: Professional snow and ice removal services use state-of-the-art equipment, methods, and products that extend the lifespan of your property. They also ensure compliance with local regulations and safety standards.
- Preventing Water Pooling and Flooding: To manage snow melt always ensure water drains away from your structure. Professional property maintenance contractors will install trench drains or permeable surfaces to efficiently melt snow and ice.
- Ensuring Safety for Foot Traffic: To maintain safe foot traffic, it’s important to consistently monitor the weather. This allows you to take proactive measures before, during, and after storms to prevent recurring issues.
Long-Term Solutions for Preventing Snowmelt Problems
- Installing Permeable Pavement: Consider utilizing permeable pavement solutions for comprehensive parking lot maintenance in Bolton. This reduces water pooling and improves drainage across parking lots, driveways, and walkways.
- Heated Sidewalks and Roadways: Many commercial property owners install heated sidewalks or roadways with radiant heating systems. Powered by electric heating cables or hydronic systems, concrete, asphalt, or pavers can melt away snow and ice in a safe and timely manner.
- Investing in Absorptive Landscaping: Absorptive landscaping uses plants, soil, and mulch to better manage water runoff. It can enhance water absorption, reduce pooling, and prevent flooding risks.
- Designing Rain Gardens and Bioswales: Rain gardens and bioswales are designed to collect and manage water runoff from snowmelt. These gardens are strategically installed in areas where pooling or water drainage is common.
Practical Tips for Reducing the Impact of Snowmelt on Daily Operations
- Use warning signs in hazardous areas
- Clear snow during off-hours
- Educate staff about the risks of snowmelt
Keep Your Commercial Property Safe This Winter with the Help of FOREVER GREEN
At FOREVER GREEN LAWN & LANDSCAPE INC., customize our commercial snow removal services and year-round maintenance packages to suit your needs and budget. For more information about our professional snow removal services in Bolton, call (905) 454-0875, email info@forevergreenoutdoors.com, or use this form to schedule a free onsite consultation.
