Water damage in a commercial environment can not only prevent the smooth operation of your business, but can also put the health and safety of your staff, your customers, and yourself at risk. This is why it’s vitally important to take action as soon as you become aware of a leak in your commercial property.
While some water damage issues are unavoidable, most of them can be avoided by identifying the cause early. Leak Tracers Direct have come up with a list of five common causes of commercial water leaks, so that you know exactly what to look out for to keep your property, your staff, and your customers safe from water damage.
Broken or damaged pipes
There are countless ways the pipes in your building could become damaged or even burst completely - for instance, very cold temperatures or changes in pressure. It’s always worth carrying out regular checks on your property, but especially if you notice some common indicators of pipe damage. These include water stains on the walls, floors, or ceilings, cracked or loose tiles, or a musty smell.
If you do spot any of these indicators, act immediately. A professional will be able to identify the problem using water leak detection tools and repair the damage, making your commercial property leak-free once again.
Leaking sprinkler systems
In a similar vein, sprinkler systems in commercial buildings can lead to leaks and water damage. Keep an eye out for wet walls or carpets, mould, musty smells, or any standing water. These are telltale signs that there’s something wrong with your sprinkler system. Again, getting to know your building and carrying out regular inspections will be handy when trying to identify the problem and its location.
Window damage
Another common cause of commercial leaks is damage to the windows or the surrounding seals. Broken windows or improper seals allow moisture to seep into the building, often very gradually and subtly so you may not even notice it happening. If you don’t act quickly, the excess moisture will result in warped or damaged wood, mould, and significant water damage. Carrying out routine checks and maintenance - including the occasional caulk reapplication - can make the world of difference.
Damaged roof
Roof damage can be caused by adverse weather conditions, poor maintenance, missing shingles and tiles, or direct damage from something like a tree trunk. A damaged roof will almost certainly result in a leak, which can then go on to cause further damage such as mould or electrical problems. Be sure to regularly check your roof for signs of damage and carry out any necessary repairs.
Damaged HVAC system
Maintaining your HVAC system is essential to the safety and comfort of your property, and therefore also your employees and customers. Over time, HVAC ducts can get damaged or begin to show signs of wear and tear, which will lead to water leakage. To avoid these issues, or at least catch them early, commercial HVAC systems should be regularly cleaned and maintained by a professional.
If you’ve noticed signs of a leak within your commercial property, Leak Tracers Direct are on hand to help. We use cutting edge technology to trace your leak without the need for destructive investigation, so you can rest assured that your property is safe with us. Get in touch for more information.