Water Damage in Vacant Buildings

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

The worst thing about water damage in vacant buildings is that no one is around to notice the problem immediately after it occurs.

The worst thing about water damage in vacant buildings is that no one is around to notice the problem immediately after it occurs. The damage can start as a minor leak and later affect property worth hundreds or thousands of dollars. The water will then cause molds on the walls and floors, damaging the property further. If you have an unoccupied commercial property, you shouldn’t lock it up and stay for months without checking on it. Consider routine checks and maintenance to minimize or prevent property damage.

Causes of Water Damage in Vacant Commercial Property

1. Broken or Damaged Windows

Water damage in most commercial buildings happens because of windows with damaged seals. They allow moisture to get into the building and cause more problems such as warped wood and mold development. Property owners should reseal all windows regularly since the join-up can break down after some time.

2. Leaking Pipes

Several reasons can cause pipes breakages, such as damage to the water supply and drainage system, increase in pressure, and cold weather. Some of the signs of damaged pipes include having loose or cracking tiles, watermarks on the floors and walls, walls that have puffed out, and a stuffy smell. Since it may be difficult to detect leaking pipes, you should hire a specialist who will use a piece of special equipment to confirm the leakage.

3. Clogged Gutters

If you don’t clean gutters regularly, they may become clogged and cause water leakage into the building through the foundation or roof. One sign that can show the possibility of leakage in the foundation is wet frames and water puddles. Unfunctional drainage systems may also cause water damage to the foundation of your commercial property.

4. Leaking Roofs

A leaking roof can cause mold build-up, ceiling damage, and shortened electrical wires, which may cause fire, among others. Heavy rains and snowing and incorrect removal of ice are some causes of roof damage.

5. Problems with the HVAC System

After using the HVAC system for some time, its ducts become damaged due to wearing out and causing leakage. Hence, you should clean your HVAC system regularly and remove all the water left on the reservoirs to prevent damage.

6. Clogging in the Sewer System

Contact a water damage restoration expert to rectify the system if you notice sewer damage signs such as a trickling sound. That is because sewer water consists of bacteria that cause infections and illnesses.

7. Leaks in the Sprinkler System

The other cause of water damage in commercial properties is sprinkler system leakages. You can tell your sprinkler system is leaking by noticing wetness on surfaces, mold, and standing water. Ensure to inspect your sprinkler system regularly to check for leaks and moisture and repair whenever necessary.

Water damage in commercial buildings is a problem that property owners should address immediately to avoid further problems. The above are the main causes of water damage that you should be keen to check periodically. However, you can prevent water damage by having a flood monitoring system, ensuring your property is against flood damage, and conducting regular inspections and maintenance on your property.