A customer’s first impression of a business starts in the parking lot. Whether you run a storefront on your commercial property or maintain it for other business owners, it’s essential that you keep the exterior in professional shape.
Trim Trees and Shrubbery
Trees, shrubbery, and other plants provide a pleasant backdrop to a commercial property. A neat line of shrubs and bushes can do a lot for a business’s outward appearance. Regular pruning of dead branches and overgrowth will improve the way your shrubbery looks and increase the plant’s overall health. As an added note, make sure that you’re pruning correctly for the type bushes on your property. Each plant has a different direction it prefers to grow, and will flourish if permitted to do so.
Maintain Light Fixtures
Light fixtures are a commonly overlooked part of many properties. Outdoor lights can easily develop dust, cobwebs, rust, or other problems. As a part of your regular maintenance, inspect and clean any fixtures on your property. Replace dead bulbs as soon as they go out to keep your business well-lit. If part of your parking lot is too dark at night, consider adding a new light fixture; the extra light will help both customers and employees feel confident and secure.
Inspect Sidewalks and Parking Lots
Cracked concrete is an instant sign that a piece of property is not being properly maintained. Concrete problems occur over time; a small crack can become a large fissure if left unattended. These problems can often be caused tree roots, excessive moisture, or other property issues. If you notice any damage to your sidewalk or parking lot, invest in concrete repairs sooner rather than later. During the repair process, you may notice an underlying issue that could impact the entire structure.
Repaint Exterior Walls
A fresh coat of paint can make any property look brand new. Conversely, chipped paint and water-damaged stucco can give a building a dilapidated, worn-down feeling. Although you don’t need to repaint every season, you should apply a new coat often enough to keep your colors bright and attractive. You can also use the painting process to inspect your walls for other needed repairs.
The impression visitors have of your property is a combination of the little details. Well-maintained plants, fixtures, and sidewalks give businesses a professional feel and inspire confidence in their customer base. When you devote a little extra time to your building’s exterior, visitors know that you really care about both the property and their continued business.