Not only will it cost you plenty of money to fix up, but it could also slow your business down. In the worst-case scenario, that could even mean shutting down your business to address the problem. Prevention is better than cure when it comes to water damage, and here are some ways you can go about it.
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Take note of potential areas where water damage can occur, so you can easily identify the source of the problem. Take note of the appliances in your business, such as water heaters, washers, and more, that use water.
The same goes for your pipes and drains, as these can be clogged and lead to overflowing. Pipes can also freeze during the colder months, so that is something to look out for as well. Lastly, check your roofing, and ensure it is properly installed and maintained to help keep water out.
Prevention Tips
Now that you are more aware of where damage might occur, it is time to take some concrete actions to prevent water damage.
Know Your Water Main
This valve helps shut off the water supply completely in emergencies, and knowing where it is can be of tremendous help. All employees should be trained to shut it off, which can be a lifesaver when broken pipes or appliance malfunctions occur.
Do Regular Checks
Always carry out routine inspections and maintenance with all the appliances, especially for those with water lines. This applies to the various parts that make the equipment work as well. When appliances get too old, a swift replacement will minimize the chances of problems.
Install Water Detection Devices
You might not always be there to look out for things, but water detection devices can do the heavy lifting for you. These nifty devices help sound the alarm when moisture is detected and can be the first line of defense for any business. Even for the slow leaks and lower moisture levels, the sooner you detect them, the better it will be for your business.
Monitor Water Usage
Businesses that require the use of water should see a steady water bill each and every month. If there is a sudden spike, you know there could be a potential water leak in the building.
Exterior Checks
Water damage is not just possible from the inside, it could be from external sources as well. Be sure to check your outdoor hoses or spigots, keep gutters well maintained and cleaned, and check the exterior walls to ensure no seepage is happening.
It is also crucial to check on window seals and the roof so you are not caught unaware of slow leaks. Getting professionals to help with checks and maintenance every once in a while could save you thousands in the long run.
Conclusion
By educating yourself about preventative measures, you’ll have a better chance of stopping water damage from affecting your business before it becomes an issue. Together with physical checks and a proper maintenance plan, business owners can forge ahead without too much worry about water damage.
If your business is unfortunately facing water damage, don’t hesitate to call us for help as soon as possible so we can assist with commercial water damage restoration.