Don't Let Water Damage From A Leaking Roof Affect Your Southbury Business

3/6/2018 (Permalink)

When a commercial building has water damage, SERVPRO works with the business to keep their doors open while the restoration process is ongoing.

Business owners know that keeping their doors open is vital to the success of their company. If a commercial building has flooding from a roof leak, it can cause damage to the structure as well as the contents inside.  Even a small leak can allow enough moisture in to be of concern. Although not all roof failures can be avoided, there are some inspection items that all Torrington area business owners should check to reduce their chances of water damage.  

Commercial Building Roof Checklist 

• Aged Roof - Just like the roof on your house, the one on your commercial building has a finite lifespan. In general, a commercial roof will last about 20 years before it begins to degrade, putting your business at risk.  As a roof ages, the potential for water seeping in due to broken or missing shingles or decaying roofing materials grows. Also, old roofs are often poorly ventilated, which can create conditions conducive to mold growth.  If your commercial building has an older roof, consider replacing it as an insurance policy against water damage. 
• Poor drainage – If water is puddling on your roof, it will likely leak into your building. There are a variety of reasons why a roof might not drain properly. Perhaps the contractor didn't place adequate downspouts and gutters during installation, or they have been damaged or moved throughout the years. There could also be blockages such as debris in your system. 
• Flat roof - Many commercial buildings have a flat roof, which has its advantages for large structures that have no need for a sloped roof and require an area for mechanical systems.   Rooftop HVAC systems might have clogged lines which can cause condensation and ponding of water.  A flat roof that has inadequate sloping can also be the cause of water damage. Foot traffic from maintenance workers on the roof can cause damage and erosion. If your building has a flat roof, have it inspected annually for any wear, puddling of water and to have the drains and lines cleaned.  
• Damaged flashing – the flashing on a roof, which goes over joints where a chimney, HVAC system, gas lines or skylight meets the roof, can be pulled back or damaged from age or wind as well as from improper installation. Water easily gets in the crack and can seep down into the interior walls and ceilings.  

If, despite your best efforts, your commercial building does have a roof leak, call in a professional water damage company immediately.  Regardless of how the water got in, the SERVPRO of Southbury/Torrington team provides dependable service that is backed by the industry's most selective training program. We use the latest technologies such as moisture sensors and readers along with thermal imaging to determine where moisture is hidden and avoid unnecessary demolition to the walls of your building.

Drawing upon years of experience mitigating commercial water damage, our technicians will arrive at your business prepared to determine the cause of the roof leak, assess the damage and formulate a restoration plan. We are committed to restoring your business quickly and efficiently, with as little disruption to your business continuity as possible.  We understand that the water damage from your roof leaking impacts your business, which is why we are available 24-7 to respond to your call.