Water damage in commercial spaces can lead to significant disruptions, costly repairs, and potential health hazards. But before you implement preventative measures, it is important to understand the basic causes of water damage in your commercial space.
So read this blog to learn five most common causes of commercial water damage. Identifying these factors will enable you to proactively safeguard your property and reduce the likelihood of water-related incidents in the first place.
Five Paramount Causes Of Commercial Water Damage
1. Roof Leaks
The roof serves as the primary protection against water damage. If the roof is in poor condition or damaged, water can infiltrate the structure, potentially causing wood to decay or metal to rust. These issues can result in expensive repairs or safety concerns.
Additionally, leaks can harm ceilings and floors, impacting the appearance and usability of commercial spaces. Hence, it is crucial to promptly address roof leaks and regularly inspect the roof to prevent these consequences.
2. Faulty Appliances
When it comes to commercial properties, large-scale appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters deal with significant water volumes. When these units break down, they can cause substantial water leaks and potential flooding, resulting in extensive property damage.
Henceforth, addressing faulty appliances through regular maintenance, timely repairs, and, most importantly, prompt replacement of aging equipment is essential to mitigate the risk of water damage in commercial properties.
3. Damaged HVAC
Leaks and damaged components are common issues with HVAC systems, leading to water damage. Refrigerant line leaks can cause excess moisture and water accumulation, potentially damaging building structures and promoting mold growth.
Similarly, clogged or damaged components like coils, filters, and ducts can also lead to water leakage. For example, dirty coils can cause the system to freeze and then thaw, resulting in water overflow.
Therefore, regular maintenance and inspection of HVAC systems are vital for preventing water damage in commercial properties. These measures can mitigate potential problems before they escalate into significant issues.
4. Burst Pipes
Burst pipes are a common cause of water damage and can have serious consequences. When a pipe bursts, it can release a large volume of water quickly, leading to extensive flooding and significant structural damage to floors, walls, and ceilings.
This can disrupt business operations, especially in critical areas like offices, production areas, or customer-facing spaces, resulting in lost revenue and productivity.
Regular maintenance and inspections are key to preventing burst pipes, especially in large commercial buildings with extensive plumbing systems. Failing to detect and address potential issues can lead to sudden and unexpected bursts, causing further damage and disruption.
5. Foundational Cracks
It’s crucial to address foundational cracks promptly as they create a direct pathway for water to enter the building, particularly during heavy rains, floods, or snowmelt. This can result in water accumulation in basements or lower levels, causing significant harm to interiors, equipment, and stored goods.
So, timely inspection, repair, and waterproofing of foundational cracks are necessary to prevent water damage and preserve the structural integrity of commercial properties.
Summing Thoughts!
Preventing water damage is crucial for commercial spaces and understanding the common causes of commercial water damage can help take proactive measures to prevent this destructive incident from occurring.
However, in the unfortunate event of such damage, you can always rely on our professionals at PNW Restoration Services for swift remediation. Water damage doesn’t wait, and neither do we. We offer 24/7 emergency response to assess and restore your commercial property as early as possible.
