When running a successful business, one of the most critical aspects is protecting your premises from water damage. According to a recent UK study, 1 in 3 business premises are at risk of flooding, with average damage costs of around £82,000. It is prudent to take the necessary steps to protect your business from water damage and maintain a safe and healthy environment for your employees and customers. Here are five ways to protect your business from water damage.
- Check for leaks
One of the most common causes of water damage is leaking pipes. Aside from preventing water waste and potential equipment damage, checking for leaks is necessary for ensuring the safety of the building and its occupants. To check for leaks, you should first locate your water meter and check for any external leaks. Regularly inspecting your plumbing and fixtures for any signs of leaks or damage would be best. If you find a leak, it’s important to address it immediately before it causes further damage.
- Install moisture sensors
Consider investing in moisture sensors to help detect leaks in areas that may not be visible. Moisture sensors can monitor the humidity in a particular room or building area and alert business owners when the humidity exceeds a certain level. It is especially useful in areas such as basements and bathrooms, which are prone to moisture and mould buildup. You can use moisture sensors to detect water leaks in pipes, which can lead to costly repairs if not detected and handled quickly. If you own a manufacturing business, you may invest in a moisture sensor to detect humidity changes that could affect the quality of your products.
- Maintain gutters and inspect your roof
Debris, such as leaves and twigs, can clog gutters. Likewise, downspouts can cause water to back up and overflow, resulting in damage. Regularly inspect and clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure they are clear and operating properly. Quickly attend to any signs of wear and tear as early as possible. Meanwhile, your roof is also one of the most significant parts of your building, so inspecting it regularly for any damage is important. Check for missing shingles, cracks, or any other signs of damage that could lead to water leaks.
- Invest in waterproofing
Waterproofing your building is one of the best ways to protect it from water damage. It can help to prevent water from seeping into your walls, floors and ceilings. Moreover, waterproofing can help reduce the energy your business needs to maintain a comfortable temperature, leading to lower utility bills. Fortunately, you can apply many waterproofing products to your foundation, walls, and other areas to create a water-resistant barrier to protect your business from water damage. Water and damp-proofing products such as RIW toughseal can be useful for ensuring your business is safe and secure.
By taking the necessary steps to protect your business from water damage, you can save money and protect your customers and employees from health hazards. Check for leaks, install moisture sensors, maintain gutters and downspouts, inspect your roof, and invest in waterproofing.