Is Your Business Ready to Handle Water Damage? | SERVPRO of Bartow County
11/1/2022 (Permalink)
The threat of water damage can keep any busy business owner up at night. No one wants to think about what a water disaster would cost to recover from! In addition, closing your business during the repairs might be disastrous to your business plan.
Water is all around us, so that means the potential for water damage is always a constant in our lives. All it would take is a burst pipe, faulty appliance or sprinkler system malfunction and your inventory could be ruined or your building’s structure compromised.
There is also the threat of water from a thunderstorm or flood! For example, Tanyard Creek Road is especially prone to flooding when the water levels rise in Lake Allatoona. Any time there is flooding in the area, your business could be at risk.
Locate Your Water Valves
If you are a business owner, you probably know a lot about your building or storefront, but do you know where your water valves are? Knowing how to shut off your water is an important aspect of minimizing water damage.
It is also important to share this knowledge with your leadership team so that there is always someone ready and able to take action when needed.
Different Water Types
Water serves many purposes in our daily lives, and sometimes that water is dangerous. This is why it is important to know where the water is coming from so you know your risk level.
White water: The pipes within your building are typically carrying white water. If you have a simple pipe leak, it is not considered dangerous to handle.
Gray water: When the water comes out of your toilet tanks or sink drains, it is called gray water. This type of water is contaminated, but isn’t considered dangerous to handle in small amounts.
Black water: Whenever black water is concerned, it should only be cleaned up by a professional. This type of water comes out of your sewers and storm drains and can be toxic.
Don’t Wait!
Right after you discover your water issue, you should shut off the source of the water and the appropriate water valve. This stops the flow immediately and can give you a better idea of the extent of the damage. You should also close this area off to your customers and staff.
Afterward, get pictures! Taking pictures right away helps your insurance agent determine the extent of the damage.
We Are Here for You
While water can usually be dried out relatively quickly, it is always important to get a professional out to inspect your property for hidden water damage. This could be in the form of mold growth, warped wall studs or compromised walls.
Regardless of the water problem you face, you are not alone! Our team at SERVPRO of Bartow County will be there for you to help with the cleanup and restoration process.
When disaster strikes your commercial property, we’ll be there to help clean up and get you back in business quickly. Reach out 24⁄7 to get started!