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The Causes of Commercial Damage | SERVPRO® of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties
6/16/2022 (Permalink)
The Causes of Commercial Damage | SERVPRO® of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties
Our country has roots in the business world, and it’s likely you haven’t been a day without utilizing several companies.
As a business owner, you carry more than a plate full of responsibilities, covering the day-to-day functions and handling the extremes. And when one of those extremes is severe weather, the consequences can be a complete disaster.
Commercial damage from natural disasters has been on a steady rise in the United States. In the last five years, there has been close to $153 billion worth of damage annually, which represents a steep increase over previous periods.
Our weather is typically a mixed bag and can experience some pretty wide swings. This spring kept us under a constant threat of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes.
In May, there was a two-week period that brought swinging temperatures, torrential rain, hail and wind. Our winters can also bring a variety of weather that can include anything from unseasonably warm temperatures to snow and ice storms.
This varying weather should serve as a reminder to us that we need to always be prepared. The more we learn about the various disasters that our businesses could face, the more we can do to protect them.
Water is one of the top causes of damage to businesses around the country. This can stem from severe weather or something internal like an appliance failure, and either way, it can cause extreme damage to your property.
Exterior flooding, like that from flash floods or river floods, can damage the foundation of your building when water seeps in through doors and the ground. With the Mississippi River so nearby, this is something we have to pay particular attention to.
If your property has the room, use your landscaping strategically to divert water away from your building. Adding flower beds, mulch and even excess dirt can be a great preventive measure.
Even a small drip can lead to water damage in your building, especially when it is allowed to leak for an extended amount of time. Check your plumbing regularly and watch for signs of water on walls and floors. Take a look at your ceilings and ensure there is no warping or discoloration. Staying on top of potential weakened areas now can save you money later.
Storm damage to commercial buildings is common and can affect an entire community of businesses or only a single unit. Even a power outage, upturned trees and debris can be damaging to your building or keep you away from work.
A strong storm that blows through can tear off roofs or pull off shingles. These storms can bring winds of over 100 mph that can knock over freight trucks and cause irreversible structural damage. We have certainly seen some of these winds when strong storms blew through our own neighborhoods.
There are measures you can take to limit damages from storms, like installing window covers and updating your roof. Simple acts like checking the seals on your windows and doors are also preventive measures.
If you have a lot of area around the exterior of your property, take time to clear any loose limbs and dead plants while you secure any outdoor furniture before a storm moves in.
Commercial damage can happen in many different ways, with water damage and storm damage being the top causes. These events can be completely devastating and force owners to close for an extended amount of time or even permanently.
Thankfully, SERVPRO is available 24⁄7 to respond quickly to any disaster you may face. Our experts are your neighbors, and it is our goal to build a plan that will get you back in action faster.
If you have experienced damage to your business or want to learn more about our commercial damage restoration services, contact us today. We’re here to act fast, 24⁄7.