Fall Preparation for Avoiding Water Damage

5 min read

Fall is now in full swing, and winter is just on the horizon. As the likelihood of snowfall continues to increase, the threat of water damage is always present. Fortunately, there is a way to prepare your building for the coming winter and prevent the snow from wreaking havoc on your property – and fall is the perfect time for it.

We’ll delve into actionable tips to prepare your commercial property for the winter in this insightful fall preparation checklist.

Signs of Water Damage Inside Commercial Properties

Issues around your commercial property can lead to water damage if not addressed properly. However small they may be, it’s vital to act swiftly when water damage is detected to mitigate the damage caused and minimize the cost of water clean up and repair.

In many cases, commercial water damage can go unnoticed until it’s too late. With that said, consider the following warning signs when determining if water damage is present on your property:

Visible Flaking, Chipping, or Warping

Water ingress is commonly detected when there are visible signs of damage to the building’s structure. If water has made its way inside the building, water damage can appear on surfaces with which it has made contact, such as the ceiling, walls, flooring, or furniture. In effect, the area will appear flaky, warped, or bloated.

Distinct Microbial Growth

Mold is guaranteed to grow in areas where moisture and heat are present. This can be caused by a leak in the sprinkler system or the building’s plumbing. But since mold takes at least 72 hours to grow, a considerable amount of time may have passed since the leak occurred.

Appearance of Corrosion

Rust in any of the building’s equipment can also signify commercial water damage. Leaking water can come in contact with the equipment, causing corrosion to form when oxygen is present. Depending on the extent of the damage, rusty equipment may be a sign of an old leaking problem that was left unaddressed.

Increase in Utility Costs

An increase in your monthly utility bills isn’t uncommon, especially if it’s due to a rise in water consumption. However, if the cause for the dramatic increase cannot be determined, it could be likely caused by an undiagnosed leak. Call a plumber immediately if you can’t find the leak’s location. A plumber can help you safely diagnose and deal with the problem before it causes significant structural damage to your property.

Fall Maintenance Checklist to Prevent Water Damage

As temperatures continue to drop, the threat of water damage grows. The best way to prevent water damage on your property is to perform some last-minute building maintenance to ensure your property is ready for the winter. Use the checklist below to help you make the necessary preparations:

• Perform a comprehensive inspection throughout the entire building. Look for gaps, cracks, and potential leaks and seal them to prevent cold air from entering.
• Check the flat roof for any debris. Inspect your gutters and downspouts for any sticks, twigs, leaves, and other small debris that might clog up the entire system and remove any buildup.
• Insulate exposed pipes. Prepare your pipes for the winter season by adding insulation to keep them from freezing. In doing so, you can prevent the water inside from freezing and avoid bursting pipes.
• Review the condition of all appliances. Conduct a thorough assessment of their condition and perform preventive maintenance, especially for those with access to water lines, such as water heaters, boilers, dishwashers, and washing machines.
• Set your HVAC and sprinkler systems to maintenance. Minor maintenance tasks such as changing up the filters and checking the air vents go a long way towards ensuring your HVAC system is running at peak performance. Additionally, look for signs of moisture, as it could indicate a problem that may lead to extensive property damage.
• Listen to your tenants. Make your rounds and interview your tenants about any problems they may be experiencing. Ask if they may be experiencing some issues with their plumbing or heating to implement possible solutions before they become full-blown problems.
• Locate your water main shut-off valve. If your pipes break or any other problems with your plumbing system occurs, knowing where your water main is located can save time and minimize the need for water clean up later.

Emergency Water Damage Restoration Experts

It’s always wise to exercise caution when it comes to your commercial property to prevent significant water damage and eliminate the financial losses that go with it. By taking the time to prepare your building for the drop in temperature, you are putting your property in the best shape possible when the snow falls.

In some cases, problems can occur despite all the preparations you’ve made. When such issues arise, you can rely on Restoration 1 of Kansas City to help you deal with the issue immediately. With swiftness and compassion, Restoration 1 works on your property to mitigate water damage and restore your property to its pre-loss condition. Call Restoration 1 of Kansas today for a free consultation.