Many salons generate up to 50% of annual revenue between January and April. Having your business closed for even one-week during this time period could take a huge chunk out of your finances – and also drive your customers directly into the hands of a competitor.
Now is the time to take preventative measures, prepare for the harsh weather to come – and limit your personal and financial risk.
Winter weather can lead to a myriad of problems for your business. The most common and costly weather-related insurance claims include:
- Water leaks
- Wind damage
- Hail damage
- Frozen pipes
- Roof damage from ice and snow
Begin by having your HVAC company inspect and tune-up your heating system now before the real cold weather sets in. The worst time to deal with a furnace or boiler malfunction is when it’s cold and everyone else needs service, too.
Inspect all pipes and ensure that they are well insulated and free of leaks. If you spot any signs of trouble, contact your plumber immediately.
Insulate outside pipes and seal the areas where pipes enter and exit the building to reduce the risk of freezing, while also reducing heating costs.
Up on the Roof
The roof is the most exposed part of the building. Blistering summer heat, frigid cold, rain and winds eventually compromise the structural integrity of flat and sloped rooftops alike, quickly leading to problems throughout the premises.
To prevent the need for catastrophic repairs, which always seem to occur when they are the most costly and disruptive, a regular annual inspection is highly recommended.
If you can easily access the rooftop and it is relatively flat and safe, you may be able to inspect it yourself and perform any necessary preventive maintenance. Otherwise, use properly trained professionals.
Trees & Powerlines
Make sure that any trees that surround your property are healthy and well-pruned. Falling branches and trees can cause serious injury while also disrupting power and physical access to your business.
Take proactive steps now to eliminate potential problems. If trees are on city property (which many often are) notify your local authorities. Overhanging branches, branches in contact with powerlines, dead or unhealthy-looking trees are often their responsibility to address.
Windows & Doors
Inspect all windows and doors to ensure that they are functioning properly and close and seal tightly and securely. Check for cracks, breaks or any defects that could lead to bigger problems when storms hit and temperatures dip.
Slip-Sliding Away
The states with the highest slip and fall claims include: Indiana, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois and Minnesota.
Frozen walkways, parking lots, steps and stairways become slip and fall hazards that can pose an expensive legal claim should an incident occur.
To prevent injuries and protect your business, you should be prepared to remove snow as soon as possible and treat sidewalks, walkways, etc., for ice and standing water.
Here are some essentials for your action plan:
- Snow Shovels
- Salt Pellets & Sand
- Non-Slip Door & Floor Mats (for inside and outside)
- Warning Signs
- Flashlights
- Hats, Gloves
- Space Heaters (Use only during business hours)
Also note that slips and falls can happen inside your business. People entering your lobby with wet shoes and clothes can create hazards for themselves, as well as your staff and other customers.
During periods of snow, ice, rain, etc. you must continuously maintain a safe and dry environment for everyone who enters your business. Assign the responsibility to a dependable person to keep all floors clean and dry. This includes lobby and common areas, tanning and spa treatment rooms, bathrooms, vanity areas, etc.
A series of professional Salon Training Videos, including How to Prevent Water Damage to Your Salon, can be viewed Free of Charge: uiprograms.com/safer-salon
