Preparing And Protecting Your Fort Mill Business From Floods and Water Damage

1/18/2016 (Permalink)

Need a top rated commercial water damage restoration company in Fort Mill? Call SERVPRO today for help at 803-324-5780.

Some Tips to Prevent Water Damage to a Business in Fort Mill

Every year in Fort Mill water damage causes businesses here, and surrounding areas,to lose millions of dollars to commercial property loss. Unfortunately, small businesses are often the most deeply impacted by floods resulting in water damage. Additionally, flash floods are the leading factor contributing to weather-related deaths in America. Flood waters can also have a negative impact on businesses insomuch as they bring about a large number of environmental and health problems. Weather conditions and topography play integral roles in determining what impact specific kinds of flooding will have on different regions.

In realizing that floods can adversely affect your business and health, it's important that you be cognizant of the dry flood-proofing measures you can exact to be prepared. Some of the measures that may be ideal for your situation include:

• Using a waterproof membrane or coating on your exterior walls
• Sealing your wall penetrations
• Using waterproof shields on openings such as doors and windows
• Anchoring your building so that it resists flotation
• Strengthening your walls against flood debris and flood water pressures

Protecting Your Basement

Unfortunately, basements are susceptible to flooding and water damage. Seeking the line of least resistance water can readily flow down into this area of a building. Additionally, basements can undergo an increase in hydrostatic pressure when the ground surrounding them is saturated. In understanding that elevation is the ideal way to mediate these challenges, there are several strategies commercial business owners can utilize to prevent flood damage in the basement. Business properties in Fort Mill, if situated on a hill, and not in a dip, have an advantage against floods and water intrusion. Some steps and strategies include:

• Carefully inspecting the basement and surrounding areas for sources of water leakage
• Correcting any issues that could become problems (examples would be caulking interior wall cracks, re-grading sloping landscape, and redirecting downspouts.) Call SERVPRO for an assessment of your topographic weaknesses.
• Designing basement walls so that they are resistant to hydrostatic pressure
• Using flood-resistant materials for things such as wall insulation and wall coverings
• Storing valuable documents, equipment, and inventory far from areas of the basement where flooding or a burst pipe may occur.

Here are several strategies you can implement to reduce environmental and health damage that could result from a flood, structural failure (roof or windows), or a sewage backup.

• Anchor propane tanks and fuel so that they aren't swept away. In the event that they do break off, the content can leak. The leakage could create a fire as well as pollution risks that have an adverse impact on the environment and your health. Mold can begin to grow within 48-72 hours after the moisture level has become conducive for growth.
• Block your drain pipes from dangerous sewage back-up by installing sewer backflow valves
• Guard your well against contamination by having a licensed contractor inspect the well and make suggestions for improvements.

Conclusion

Although floods can have a negative impact on your business building and the environment, it's important to know that the tips and tricks outlined above can help you effectively grapple with a flood or other source of unwanted water pooling. Also, note that securing professional commercial water damage restoration services following a water damaging event in your Fort Mill business is imperative. SERVPRO, with over 55 years of experience in this industry is the one to call.

Fort Mill Water Damage or Flooding? Call Us Today (803) 324-5780

Commercial Water Restoration Presents Unique Challenges

SERVPRO of Rock Hill & York County has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial flooding or water damage emergencies. Whether your water emergency occurs in a small office building or big box store, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion. Learn more about Learn more about our training and certifications..