Winter is here! While different parts of Canada are facing very different weather patterns, the need to ensure your commercial property stays safe all year long is significant. Poor landscaping and a lack of planning can lead to costly fines or even lawsuits if someone is hurt on the premises. At KD Planning & Design, we know how important it is to have the right safeguards in place to tackle the winter months and the transition to spring. In partnership with the Krahn Group of Companies (KGC), we’re proud to partner with businesses and municipalities across Western Canada to offer landscape design and exterior architectural consulting that set you up for success all year round. Below, we’ll take a closer look at some of the specific aspects you need to stay on top of during the colder months. Read on to learn more!
Why Prevention Matters
It’s no secret that Canadian winters can challenge your landscape and your building’s safety. Whether you operate a retail location or multi-residential complex or want to keep your office as accessible as possible, harsh temperatures and constantly fluctuating weather conditions can lead to serious damage if you don’t plan. As we continue to see longer, less predictable winter patterns across the nation, it’s even more important to stay ahead of the curve and ensure your landscape design is equipped to deal with whatever the cold throws your way! While we covered some initial considerations for winterizing in a previous piece, additional specifics you need to focus on include the following:
Drainage Issues
Whether you see significant snowfall or increased rain during the winter, you need to have adequate drainage methods. Excessive condensation can do serious harm to your structure, as well as present dangerous hazards for pedestrians and occupants of the building. Making sure you have sufficient grading and draining is essential.
Tackling Trees
While you always want to try and beat your tree maintenance ahead of the season, winter conditions can present sudden hazards that you need to be prepared to tackle immediately. From fallen branches to overhangs that get a little too weighed down, have a plan to tackle issues as soon as they arise to prevent unnecessary danger.
Take Care with Seasonal Decor
Holiday decorations and seasonal lights can be a fantastic way to increase your curb appeal and keep festive spirits up, but without the proper care, they can also pose significant risks. Be sure to work with an experienced landscape design team before moving in any large holiday pieces. Make sure your electrical systems are equipped to handle your set-up, and always use best practices regarding implementation and upkeep!
Snow Removal
It is no surprise that you need to be on top of snow removal. Doing so not only keeps your space safe, but it also makes it far more accessible to others and protects you from lawsuits. Partner with a dedicated contractor to get a removal plan in place (and do so early).
Keep an Eye on Irrigation
Finally, one of the lesser thought risks during the winter is poorly managed irrigation systems. Always winterize your equipment, and even more importantly, check throughout the season, especially after extreme weather snaps or heavy temperature fluctuations. Doing so can help you avoid flooding and other costly issues.
Design for Success with the Krahn Group of Companies
At KGC, we’re proud to ensure that each project is handled with care and excellence. Our landscape design partners, KD Planning & Design, have extensive experience in the field and offer design and arborist (BC only) services you can trust. Learn more about how KD Planning & Design, in partnership with the Krahn Group of Companies, can help you transform the landscape of your property by contacting us today.
