Preparing For the Spring Thaw

7/27/2022 (Permalink)

A flood at your Arbor, CA, commercial property is bad for business. Fortunately, some instances of water damage can be prevented. The following outlines how to prepare your business for the spring thaw and prevent the water inundation that can occur when temperatures start to rise.  

Prevent Flooding  

If snow melts too quickly, it can cause water damage to buildings. Make sure snow is shoveled away from the foundation and removed from the roof. Check the following to make sure they are clear of debris and snow: 

• Drains 
  
• Downspouts  
  
• Gutters 
  
  

Heavy spring rains may also lead to water inundation. Make sure the roof is in good condition to handle stormy weather. Check seals around windows and doors, and make sure functional shutters are in good condition. If your building has a sump pump, make sure it is in working order. Check your insurance policies and make sure you are covered for damage caused by inclement weather. 
Spring is also a good time to upgrade your landscaping to minimize the chances of water incursion. Have the lawn graded away from the building. Install mulch and native plants to absorb moisture. 

Clean Up Water Damage 
Unfortunately, not all flooding can be prevented. Whether you are dealing with water damage from a spring flood or frozen pipe, the general cleanup process is the same. Extract standing water using pumps or vacuums. Buckets can be used to scoop out water if necessary. Then dry out remaining moisture using dehumidifiers and fans. A professional restoration company has commercial tools that can dry your building out quickly and efficiently. If the water sat for more than a day or came from an unclean source, sanitize all surfaces that came into contact with the water. After everything is clean and dry, repair and replace damaged items. 
Flooding can cause major problems for your business. Fortunately, there are a variety of things you can do to prevent and minimize damage.