Spring Maintenance Tips to Protect Your Commercial Buildings
Spring is one of the most important times of year to check in on the health of your commercial building. After months of snow, ice, and fluctuating temperatures, your facility could be hiding vulnerabilities that, if ignored, may turn into expensive repair projects down the line.
As a trusted construction partner and authorized Varco Pruden (VP) builder, Pat Munger Construction Company, Inc. has supported hundreds of businesses in extending the life of their pre-engineered metal buildings through proactive maintenance.
Here are our top spring maintenance tips to keep your building performing at its best:
1. 🌧️ Inspect Perimeter Grading and Drainage
Water is the enemy of structural integrity, and spring brings plenty of it. Poor grading around your facility can lead to water pooling near the foundation, seeping into the building envelope, or causing frost heave damage.
Tech Tip:
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Ensure soil slopes away from the foundation (at least 6 inches over 10 feet).
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Confirm that all downspouts and splash blocks are securely connected and directing water away.
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Look for erosion or low spots that collect water and fill them with compacted gravel or soil.
2. 🌱 Keep Mulch Away from Siding
Mulch might improve curb appeal, but when placed too close to your building, it traps moisture and attracts pests.
Tech Tip:
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Maintain at least a 6-inch gap between mulch and siding or foundation walls.
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Replace mulch near the structure with gravel or stone to improve drainage and reduce rot risk.
3. 🧼 Power Wash Salt Residue from Walkways
Salt buildup from winter maintenance can break down concrete, creating surface flaking, cracks, and safety hazards.
Tech Tip:
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Use a low-pressure power washer or gentle scrub to remove salt buildup from concrete and asphalt areas.
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Avoid high-pressure settings, which can damage already weakened surfaces.
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Consider applying a concrete sealant after cleaning for added protection.
4. 🔩 Check Fasteners, Sealants, and Flashing
Your building’s metal panels, trims, and flashings are your first line of defense. Temperature shifts can cause materials to expand and contract, loosening fasteners and breaking down sealants.
Tech Tip:
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Look for missing, rusted, or loose fasteners on walls and roof panels.
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Inspect sealants and caulk joints at penetrations, roof curbs, and base trims for signs of cracking or failure.
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Check all flashing details for separation or water intrusion signs.
5. 🪟 Inspect Door Jambs, Thresholds, and Entryways
Snow, ice, and rain can take a toll on door frames and exterior trim, especially at ground level.
Tech Tip:
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Press on wood trim around doors to check for soft spots—a sign of rot.
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Sand and seal peeling paint or minor damage with exterior-grade waterproof sealants.
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Replace any severely deteriorated trim or jamb sections before they spread moisture further into the wall.
6. 🔍 Perform a Roof Walk-Through (Or Have Us Do It)
Your roof is the most critical element of building protection. Spring is an ideal time to assess it after winter stress.
Tech Tip:
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Look for standing water, clogged gutters, or debris blocking drainage paths.
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Identify any open seams, tears, or punctures in the roofing membrane or paneling.
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Schedule a professional roof inspection if you notice anything unusual at any time.
7. 💡 Review Exterior Lighting & Safety Signage
Spring brings longer days, but you still want your facility well-lit and secure at night.
Tech Tip:
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Replace burnt-out bulbs and clean lenses for better efficiency.
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Confirm all emergency lights, security fixtures, and safety signage are visible and functioning.
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Upgrade to energy-efficient LEDs for long-term savings and sustainability.
🧰 Need Help? Munger Construction Offers Spring Building Maintenance Services
Not sure what to look for—or short on time? Let our team help. Pat Munger Construction Company, Inc. offers comprehensive spring maintenance services to help you:
✔ Extend the life of your pre-engineered metal building
✔ Prevent costly downtime
✔ Improve energy efficiency
✔ Keep your facility safe and high-performing
📅 Schedule Your Spring Consultation Today
At Munger Construction, we’re not just here for your project—we’re here for the life of your building.
Contact us today for tailored solutions to keep your business protected all season long!
- Category: Seasonal Tips, Tech Tips