Five Winter Property Management Tips

03 Jan Five Winter Property Management Tips

Let’s face it: property management is just one of those things that is always going to be on the docket. Like brushing your teeth or keeping oil in your car, it’s just one of those things that has to be done on the daily so things will run smoothly.

Like brushing your teeth or keeping oil in your car, it’s just one of those things that has to be done on the daily so things will run smoothly. And just like health care it’s better to stay on top of things while everything is working well then to repair after a major -preventable- injury or damage has already occurred. An ounce of care is worth a tone of repair!

Wintertime is an exceptionally important time to keep a keen eye on all facets of function within and without on your property. Even a beautifully maintained home and yard might have unexpected problems lurking under beautiful paint jobs and manicured lawns. Preemptive care is always the best course of action. We’ve compiled a list of a basics walk through to make sure you’ve got your bases covered. So make yourself a mug of something warm and get ready to do a simple walk through inside and outside of your home. It’s like a little holiday cheer for your home!

1. Prep those pipes

Pipes are your first order of business if you live in a cold climate that dips into freezing temperatures. A broken pipe can cause serious damage and become a major inconvenience! For outdoor pipes it’s crucial to run all the water out of those pipes, and turn of the water source to pipes that run outdoors.

2. Bleed the radiators

Old fashioned and trusty, or inefficient fire hazards: the choice is yours! Make sure you “bleed” your radiators once a month to make sure there are no air pockets. Use the radiator key if you have one or a flat head screw driver. Slowly turn the valve clockwise. Water should begin to drip out, releasing trapped air to let hot water into the coils. Not only will this help your heater work more efficiently but it will help it last a long time! Set a reminder on your phone calendar to ensure that you do this each month.

3. Tuck your house in with some good insulation

Now that your radiators (or other heating sources) are working well, make sure all that energy isn’t escaping your home. Consider investing in some extra attic insulation. Many companies offer recycled paper as an affordable and eco friendly insulation.

Windows are another place where heat readily escapes. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, drafts can waste 5% to 30% of your heat! Consider purchasing some window insulation film, rubber weather sealing, or even cellular (clear) shades. These let the light in while keeping the heat inside.  And don’t under estimate the magic of a good snake! We aren’t talking about the kind from outside in the woods. A simple tube of fabric filled with rice or sand that is as long as the window sill can stop those unwanted icy drafts! These are also great for drafty door cracks.

5. Fortify your fences

Don’t underestimate the pretty fluff of snow as it falls! Snow quickly accumulates, putting substantial pressure on all structures and plants. (See our last blog post about preparing your plants for winter: https://landscapeconceptsny.com/2016/10/put-the-garden-to-bed/) Walk around your property and check for weaker structures, especially fencing. Which direction does the wind come from? Make sure the fence facing a strong wind is in good repair because this fence is the most likely to gather snow drifts which can put enormous pressure on a fence. Too much to mend on your own? Give us a call and tell us about your landscape maintenance needs! 914-245-4800