Leaking Sprinkler Systems
Leaks in your sprinkler system can cause thousands of dollars worth of damages, which may be covered by insurance depending on the company and coverage. When a broken pipe or other malfunction happens within your sprinkler system, it could lead to extensive flooding throughout your business. In addition, this damage can cause mold growth and other problems if it is not appropriately treated.
The signs to look out for are noticeable water pooling around sprinkler heads, discoloration on ceiling tiles or walls near the sprinklers, and an inability to shut off the system. If you notice these signs, immediately turn off the power supply running to the fire alarm panel before calling a restoration company.
Burst Pipes
A burst pipe could result in severe water damage. Burst pipes are common, especially during the winter months when freezing temperatures may cause the pipes to expand and break or corrode.
There is no way to prevent burst pipes completely, but you can do things to reduce risk. The first thing that comes to mind is keeping an eye on your pipes for any signs of damage. Also, try cutting back the insulation around exposed piping to increase heat flow to prevent freezing in most cases.
Emergency Toilet Overflows
An overflowing toilet is another common cause of commercial water damage. Typically, when a toilet overflows, it leaves behind large amounts of standing water and sewage that can damage your flooring and walls.
When a toilet overflows, you should immediately turn off the flushing mechanism to stop the water flow while you contact a plumber. If possible, shut down power, so no one accidentally uses the toilet until professionals remove all standing water. Another reason why an overflowing toilet is dangerous is that it can spread bacteria and viruses throughout your business.
Window Damage
Water damage can also occur from broken windows, and water leaks are common in buildings with older window frames. It may be necessary to replace your entire window system if water leaks through cracks or damaged seals.
HVAC Issues
Another common cause of commercial water damage is faulty HVAC units. Water can leak from the unit and drip down to lower levels if not installed or handled properly.
Properly maintaining your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems will prevent these problems from occurring in most cases; however, other HVAC issues could cause commercial water damage.
For example, if your HVAC units sit outside and are exposed to the elements, they may rust or corrode over time. If this happens, you will need to replace them completely to avoid future problems leading to leaks.
Roof Leaks
If your roof leaks, it can cause significant commercial water damage. This is especially true if your roof has experienced several years of neglect. The longer you wait to fix the problem, the worse things will get since rainwater inside your building can spread bacteria and viruses throughout your business.
Conclusion
There are many common causes of commercial water damage that you should be aware of to avoid severe problems in the future. The best way to keep your business safe is by hiring a restoration company that provides a complete service plan and performs preventative measures throughout the year.