Reduce the Chance of Commercial Storm Damage

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

If storm damage ever causes a mess at your business, call the pros at SERVPRO of Paulding/Polk.

Without warning, high-velocity winds from severe weather can damage your business. No storm’s timing or severity can be fully predicted.

Tornadoes are a common occurrence here in Georgia. Tornado winds can reach up to 300 mph in the most powerful tornadoes. Wind speeds of this magnitude can lift vehicles into the air, tear houses and businesses apart and turn shattered glass and other debris into dangerous projectiles.

It might feel like there’s nothing that can be done to prevent the full severity of storm damage, but a few simple precautions can be taken to help reduce the chance of property damage and save you money on repairs and missed productivity.

The Roof

It is critical to ensure your roof can hold up against storm damage. Storms may cause shingles to fly off or be broken by hail and debris.

To ensure that your business’ roof is protected against wind damage, get it assessed for a variety of factors, including the following:

• Shingles have a high wind and impact resistance rating
• Shingles are snugly secured and fitted together
• The roof sheathing is set firmly in place
• The connection between the roof and the walls is sufficiently secure to prevent the roof from being lifted off by high winds and updrafts
• HVAC equipment, skylight and pipelines are securely fastened and will not blow away

Exterior Walls and Doors

Different types of exteriors are more or less prone to damage from storms than others. In fact, steel siding is known as one of the most durable siding options available, as it can withstand harsh storms and damaging winds.

Some commercial spaces can be primarily glass, brick or concrete exteriors, which all have different levels of tolerance to storm damage. To make sure your building’s exterior is protected from wind damage, check the following:

• The structure is well-sealed to prevent wind from entering gaps and crevices and damaging the interior of your business
• Siding and windows are attached securely
• All entry doors are triple-hinged and protected with a deadbolt lock
• Overhead doors are well-reinforced and capable of withstanding heavy winds

Outdoor Areas

Many commercial properties have exterior spaces, from walkways to playgrounds. Perhaps you have outdoor benches, tables and chairs or potted plants.

Check the following to ensure that the areas around your property are protected against damaging winds and storms:

• Storage sheds and structures are securely anchored
• Everything you keep outdoors (equipment, inventory and supplies) is either secured or readily moved inside
• Dumpsters, outdoor lighting fixtures and fences are secured
• Large bushes and trees in close proximity to your structure are healthy and pruned
• Outdoor advertising or signage are secured

You’ve worked hard to get your business to where it is today. If storm damage ever causes a mess at your business, call SERVPRO of Paulding/Polk to handle any and all storm disaster cleanup and restoration.