Effects Storm Damage Can Have on Your Building

7/12/2022 (Permalink)

When you consider the effects a massive storm can have on your workplace, you probably think about torrential rains and heavy winds. While Mother Nature can certainly wreak havoc on your building in this way, there are other potential consequences to bad weather in Balfour, NC. A burst pipe, for example, can lead to extensive flooding. In turn, you could face time-consuming, expensive cleanup. As you understand some of these other effects of storm damage, you can prepare your business for such an emergency.

How Pipes Burst

Throughout your building, you have a network of pipes carrying water in and out of the facility. At any time, if a pipe were to break, it could expel hundreds or even thousands of gallons of water onto floors, walls, and ceilings, not to mention personal belongings and equipment. A burst pipe can occur from the following:

• Poor construction or low-quality materials
• Lack of maintenance and upkeep
• Frozen water inside that expands and begins to crack the pipes.

Gradual Flooding

It's possible for a frozen pipe to crack and begin to leak without you ever knowing it. Water could gradually trickle out of pipes in walls or ceilings, or under sinks over weeks or months before you detected a problem. This could result in mold growth, the rotting of wood and severe damage to other materials.

Sudden Flooding

If a pipe bursts, it could leave standing water in your building in a matter of minutes. If this happens, move items to higher ground and get to safety as soon as possible. Shut off the water to the building and contact a professional flood remediation company. Cleanup crews can salvage many damaged items and will restore your building as well.
Cold weather can cause a burst pipe. The consequences could be severe damage to your building. Be aware of these dangers and regularly inspect and maintain your plumbing system.