7 Causes of Commercial Water Damage

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can strike when you least expect it. Do you know where to check for leaks?

If you run a business, you should know – water damage could one day stand between you and your profits. The damage caused by leaks, floods and other forms of disasters is not just cosmetic. It can cause lasting issues that prevent you from operating your business effectively if not taken care of in the right way.

How bad can a water loss be? According to Zurich North America, insurance claims involving water cost three times more than those that don’t.

How do you minimize the cost of water damage? The simple answer: you prevent it from happening in the first place. And how do you do that? You know where it comes from, and you keep up with your maintenance.

Here are seven major causes of water damage in businesses.

1. Windows

When was the last time you resealed your windows? If you can’t remember, you may have a problem. A window that’s not properly sealed will allow moisture to seep in. Moisture leads to many different problems, including the development of mold and the warping of wood and drywall. A quick visual check should indicate whether windows need to be resealed or not, though a good rule of thumb is to regularly check on any windows that are more than 5 years old.

2. Pipes

A pipe break can be one of the most disastrous things that can happen to a business. Whether a pipe is totally broken or just leaking, it can still lead to major problems. Pipes break for all sorts of reasons – changes in pressure, cold weather, or simply deterioration over time. No matter the cause, the damage can be severe. Keep an eye out for bulging walls, water stains, a musty odor or loose and cracking tiles. If you suspect there may be a leak, call in an expert who can help you to detect it and figure out what to do next.

3. Gutters

If you don’t keep up with cleaning your gutters, they’ll clog. If they clog, then you’re likely to see water leaking through your roof or into your foundation, causing serious damage over time. If you see puddles forming around your building where they shouldn’t be, make sure your gutters are clear.

4. Roof

Your roof should protect your business, but if it isn’t properly maintained, it may become a liability. Leaking roofs don’t just lead to water damage – they can also promote mold, mildew and even fire hazards from shortened wires. If you think your roof is leaking, talk to a roofing professional to assess your options.

5. HVAC System

If you aren’t cleaning your ducts regularly, they may get damaged over time. This damage can lead to a variety of problems, including leaks. A professional cleaner should be able to remove excess water from your ducts as they clean, helping to prevent leaks and protect your ducts from issues.

6. Sewer System

Sewage clogs and backups can be a serious source of issues. Sewer water doesn’t just cause water damage – it’s also rife with bacteria and pathogens that can lead to health issues if you’re exposed. If you witness the early signs of a serious issue (like gurgling when flushing or water backing up from a drain or toilet), it’s time to bring in a professional to diagnose what’s going on before it causes any more problems.

7. Sprinklers

Sprinkler systems are there for your protection, but they too can cause water damage over time. If a sprinkler goes off, it will obviously soak the area, which will then need to be properly cleaned and dried. Sprinklers can also leak, however, which can introduce moisture to your walls, floors and ceilings and lead to lasting damage as well as issues with mold. You or your facilities team should regularly inspect sprinkler lines for signs of leaks or excess moisture.

Water damage can come from a variety of places, and there doesn’t necessarily need to be a preexisting issue with your current systems for leaks or floods to take place. That said, if you monitor these seven areas regularly, you’re likely to save yourself some headaches in the long run.