How to Protect Your Building From Water Damage

12/23/2019 (Permalink)

Whether from heavy rains, broken pipes or sewer issues, floods can cause substantial damage to your Plumsteadville, PA, building

Whether from heavy rains, broken pipes or sewer issues, floods can cause substantial damage to your Plumsteadville, PA, building. If you are not careful, you could lose documents, electronic equipment and building materials. You may not be able to predict when water will infiltrate your workspace, but you can take measures to safeguard your facility from flood damage.

Common Causes of floods

It is helpful to understand how flooding normally occurs in a building. This can guide you in putting the right steps in place to keep you and your co-workers safe. Some of the biggest culprits of water damage include the following:

• Storm surges that cause nearby rivers and canals to overflow
  
• Leaky pipes or bursting pipes
  
• Overflowing toilets
  
• Broken water heaters or other appliances
  
• Damaged or weakened roof
  
  

Protect HVAC and Electrical Equipment

If your building is located in an area where storm damage is common, you should pay close attention to your HVAC system. Raising the furnace and air conditioning units can avert danger and disaster. Do the same with electrical items such as servers, copy machines and other equipment that could spark and start fires. 

Install a Back Flow System

If raw sewage enters your building, you'll have to call a professional flood cleanup team. Known as black water, this water contains hazardous materials that could be fatal if swallowed. A backflow valve can keep sewage from coming into the building through drains. This will minimize flood damage and protect personnel in the building.

Use Flood-Resistant Materials to Build Your Facility

If your building doesn't have flood-resistant drywall, studs, floorboards and other materials, it may be time to replace current items. These items can withstand damage for up to three days, even if water finds its way to them.
If water makes its way into your building, you don't have to panic. Take thee steps today to reduce the risk of flood damage in your office.