Winter Edition: Commercial Water Damage Restoration
Tips to Prevent Winter Weather Damage
As winter weather approaches, commercial properties like office buildings, factories and warehouses are susceptible to possible issues from water damage, sometimes needing emergency repairs. This can be a siphon to both time and resources for property owners and managers.
While we are prepared to support in the restoration of any damages that may occur, we want to share a few preventative measures that you can take before catastrophe hits.
Pipes
Not only can outdoor pipes burst, but indoor pipes can as well. Unfortunately the average claim for damage from frozen pipes starts around $10,000. While insulating pipes might not seem like a great way to spend a few hours, it’s cheap, easy to install, and could save you funds in the long run. If you don’t have time to do this yourself, we encourage you to give us a call!
Toilets
Another common cause of winter water damage comes from clogged toilets. Because the issue is usually too deep to be noticed, the second clogged toilets are met with freezing conditions, disaster is sure to ensue. Be sure that all your toilets flush properly, as often as you can, and that the seals at the bottom of the toilets are secure in place.
HVAC Systems
An HVAC system’s pipes and coils have the potential to freeze over during the cold winter months, causing them to stop functioning properly. What’s worse is that the build up of pressure can cause the frozen pipes to burst. HVAC units should be checked and tuned-up at least once a year, and especially right before the winter months hit, to ensure everything is working properly.
Another helpful tip is to ensure you are changing your filters more often in the winter-time. During heavy use, filters easily get clogged with dust and other debris, causing blockages and decreased air flow to the unit, in turn decreasing efficiency and causing possible damages.
Other Spaces
Any property with an outdoor sprinkler system should make sure that their pipes have the proper insulation to get them through the winter. Crawl spaces, basements, and garages are often places that get overlooked, as well.
