Steps To Protect Commercial Buildings From Wind Driven Rain

4/29/2013 (Permalink)

More than 60 percent of the United States is vulnerable to damage from high-wind events such as hurricanes, straight-line winds and severe thunderstorms that can produce high winds and heavy rains. Here in Hampton Roads, we are certainly susceptible to damage from strong winds and rain -- and, evidenced by recent weather events, it need not be hurricane season for us to take a wallop from wind.

Taking simple steps can make a big difference when it comes to reducing the damage caused by wind-driven rain.

Check for leaks around windows and doors, especially near corners.

Check for peeling paint, it can be a sign of water getting into the wood.

Inspect for discolorations in paint or caulking, swelling of the window or doorframe or surrounding materials.

Flashing, which is typically a thin metal strip found around doors, windows, thresholds, chimneys, and roofs, is designed to prevent water intrusion in spaces where two different building surfaces meet.

All vents, including gable vents, roof vents, and exhaust vents should be well anchored to the roof, flashed and sealed to prevent leaks.

And while the outside of the building may survive unscathed, inside water intrusion can soak documents, computers and other valuable supplies.

Water damage can threaten a business's ability to quickly bounce back after a storm. SERVPRO of Virginia Beach can help with cleanup to get your business back up and running and can assist you with future concerns by creating a plan. And it's a free service.

In addition to preparing the building against water damage, leaks can find their way in through any opening, it's important to plan for the worst before it happens. The IBHS suite of Open for Business® continuity planning and recovery tools can get you on the road to preparation. Should your building become damaged by a catastrophic event such as wind-driven rain, take appropriate actions to prevent further water damage once it is safe to do so. Water damage left unattended can result in structural failure or, potentially, mold growth. Here's what to do:

Remove standing water and all moist materials, such as wet, damaged flooring or rugs, carpet, personal property, stock, equipment or inventory, and consult SERVPRO of Virginia Beach determine the extent of the repairs necessary.

Board up damaged windows and doors.

After you have dealt with the immediate crises, contact your insurance agent to report the loss and let them know you'll be using SERVPRO of Virginia Beach for mitigation and restoration needs.

Stay dry.

SERVPRO of Virginia Beach

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