6 Common Causes of Water Damage

Severe water damage inside or around a commercial business can keep your doors closed for weeks. In some cases, finding the source of water damage can be tricky, but performing a visual assessment of your building throughout the year helps you catch problems early. Here are some common causes of water damage associated with commercial structures:

1. Outdated Plumbing

Metal pipes run through walls and ceilings. As water flows through these channels, plumbing materials expand and contract due to sudden temperature changes. This can cause wear and tear on your plumbing network over time.

If possible, assess main plumbing connections between seasons looking for cracks, weak seals and rust. You may notice moisture stains along architectural surfaces if a leak is present in an enclosed area. Hire an experienced plumber to repair and replace plumbing sections to prevent commercial water damage.

2. Frequent Clogs

If your commercial space is equipped with break rooms or public restrooms, keep your eyes open for sink clogs. Contaminants such as grease, soap scum, hair and food can cause a blockage deep within drains. The sudden increase in pressure might be enough to compromise the structural integrity of your plumbing network.

Install drain screens to catch dirt and anything unsuitable for commercial sinks. These affordable accessories are known to prevent backups that can lead to large-scale messes on the floor.

3. HVAC Connections

Outdated air conditioners are frequent causes of water damage. These installations are prone to moisture pockets that get stuck within the ducts. Loose hardware and punctures across insulation leave room for concern, as water can drip within the ceilings unnoticed.

Have trained experts visit your commercial property to clean your HVAC connections. Catching drips as early as possible can help reduce energy costs, limit water damage and minimize health risks associated with mold.

4. Roof and Gutters

A commercial roof protects your workplace from outdoor elements. If you can see missing shingles, raised shingles or standing puddles from ground level, you’re in need of a repair or complete roof replacement. Attending to signs of deterioration is the only way to stop moisture from seeping into flashing and decking.

Additionally, business owners must ensure gutters are angled away from a commercial structure. Making sure gutter systems are free of leaves and debris will keep water outside and away from entrances and windows. Always hire professional roofers for your safety.

5. Windows

Cracked windows allow rain, snow and wind to enter the workplace. This can quickly lead to severe water damage and mold accumulation if inclement weather strikes during non-business hours. Check to see that your commercial windows are free of gaps when in the closed position and that exterior caulking is in pristine condition so that water stays out year-round.

6. Natural Disasters

A severe storm in the form of a hurricane will take its toll on a commercial building. It is impossible to control the forecast, but you can best prepare for flash flooding or a weather emergency by implementing a disaster relief plan for your company. Trusting the right team of professionals for water extraction efforts as well as reconstruction procedures allows you to get the help you need to continue with operations.

Contact Unlimited Restoration, Inc. for Emergency Disaster Relief

Unlimited Restoration, Inc. is your source for emergency disaster relief services in Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Florida and Washington D.C. Our experts specialize in water damage restoration techniques to clear standing water and mitigate microbial threats in the workplace for safety and compliance.

If you are experiencing a large-scale plumbing break or the aftermath of a thunderstorm, look no further than our crews for structural drying services and more. URI is available for assistance 24/7/365. Complete a contact form for more information about our services.

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