Preventing and Repairing Water Damage

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage in a Plumstead Township, PA building

Water damage to your Plumstead Township, PA, business can cause major problems. From inclement weather to a broken pipe, there are a number of ways your commercial property can suffer from water inundation.

Water Damage Prevention

There are a variety of causes of water damage. Understanding the different causes can help you prepare your building and prevent damage. The following are some common causes of water inundation:

• Plumbing problems
  
• Malfunctioning sprinkler systems
  
• Broken appliances
  
  

Routine maintenance can prevent most problems. Insulating pipes and taking other precautionary measures can reduce the likelihood of a broken pipe during the winter months. Regular maintenance can also keep your appliances and fire sprinkler system in proper working order so that they do not malfunction and cause flooding. Different sprinkler types have different maintenance needs. Check the valves, gauges, and other components of the system according to the recommendations for your specific sprinkler type.

Water Damage Cleanup
Regardless of the cause, it is important to begin the water repair and cleanup process as soon as possible. Mold growth and structural damage can occur quickly.

Dry
After addressing any electrical hazards, the first thing to do is dry up the standing water. There are specialized pumps and vacuums available for this. If the water soaked into porous surfaces, you will need to run fans or a dehumidifier to finish the drying process.

Clean
Depending on the source of the water, you may also need to sanitize the affected areas. There are a variety of cleaners available. Choose one that is appropriate for the surface you are cleaning and the level of contamination contained in the flood water. Any items that cannot be fully cleaned and sanitized should be thrown away and replaced.

Restore
Lastly, repair damaged items. Many business owners can complete simple repairs themselves but need to hire specialists for more intricate restoration services.
If your business experiences a broken pipe or another source of water damage, the cleanup process may feel overwhelming. Fortunately, an experienced restoration company can help you get your building back to preloss condition.