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Top 6 Commercial Water Damage Causes

August 31, 2022

Water is essential for your business’s day-to-day operations, but too much of it can be a disaster. Flooding, leaks and seeping water can cause all sorts of problems for your company, from ruining inventory to causing extensive structural damage. Hays + Sons takes a look at the top six causes of commercial water damage so that you can spot them quickly if they occur in your facility.

1. Faulty Pipes

Pipes are an essential part of any commercial building, responsible for carrying water to all the different areas. However, pipes are also susceptible to damage and breakage. There are a number of reasons why this can happen, including corrosion, poor installation, freezing temperatures and changes in water pressure.

Broken pipes can cause serious water damage in a commercial building, as well as disruptions to the operations of the business. In order to prevent this from happening, it is important to be aware of the signs that a pipe may be damaged or broken. These include leaks, wet spots on walls or ceilings and strange noises coming from the pipes.

2. Damaged Roofing

A commercial building's roof can sustain damage in a number of ways. High winds can cause shingles or tiles to come loose, and heavy rains can lead to leaks. In addition, snow and ice can build up and place undue stress on the roof, causing it to collapse.

When a roof is damaged, it is important to have the problem repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage. If water is able to seep into the building, it can cause serious problems such as mold growth or structural damage. In addition, a compromised roof can also create safety hazards for employees or customers.

3. Faulty Sprinkler System

A faulty sprinkler system can cause serious water damage in a commercial building. Water damage can cause the growth of mold, which can threaten the structural integrity of the building. It can also lead to the growth of bacteria, which can pose a health risk to occupants. Signs of commercial water damage due to a faulty sprinkler system include wet floors, walls and ceilings, the development of mold or mildew and an increase in humidity levels.

4. Broken Windows

A broken window is more than just an eyesore. In a commercial building, it can also lead to water damage. When water seeps through the cracks in the window, it can cause the structure of the window to weaken. Over time, this can lead to the window collapsing. Water damage can also occur if the window is not properly sealed. If gaps form between the window and the frame, water can enter the building and cause damage to the interior walls and fixtures. In addition, a broken window can provide an entry point for pests, which can further damage the building.

5. Broken HVAC Equipment

One of the most unexpected causes of water damage in a commercial building is a broken HVAC system. The HVAC system is responsible for both heating and cooling the building, and some types of commercial HVAC systems circulate water to heat or remove heat. If there is a leak in the system, the water can quickly spread throughout the building, causing extensive damage. In addition, the water can interact with other systems in the building, such as the electrical wiring. Conventional central air conditioning units and condensing furnaces produce moisture through their operation — if the condensate drainage system is clogged or damaged, this can cause serious water leaks in the area surrounding the HVAC equipment.

6. Storms & Natural Disasters

Flooding is one of the most common natural disasters in the United States, and it can cause extensive water damage to commercial buildings. Blocked drains and gutter systems can worsen flooding by impeding the flow of rainwater away from the building. As a result, water can seep into the structure, leading to soaked carpets, warped floorboards and mold growth. In addition, heavy rains can cause leaks in the roof or walls, which can also lead to water damage.

Commercial Water Damage Remediation Services

Water damage can cause a lot of destruction and havoc in a short amount of time. If your business experiences water damage, it’s important to take swift action to remediate the situation. Contact Hays + Sons for commercial water damage remediation services as soon as possible so that we can begin assessing and repairing the damages caused by the water. We have decades of experience helping businesses like yours get back on their feet after experiencing water damage, so you can rest assured that we will handle everything from start to finish so you can focus on getting your business back up and running.