Winter Storm Warning

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

Winter storms can be quite destructive to any size of residential or commercial property here in the Pacific Northwest. When a winter storm hits, it can significantly interrupt if not suspend your business operations. Winter storms can bring freezing rain, ice, snow, high winds, or a combination of these conditions, which can undoubtedly cause thousands of dollars of damage to your property if you not prepared.

~Clear out your gutters.

While it is important to regularly maintain your gutters, it is especially important to clear them out before a big storm. With the rain storm typically comes a downpour of leaves and other debris. If the gutters aren’t cleared out they are likely to clog and limit the water that can drain off of the roof.

~Regularly inspect and repair your roof.

Heavy precipitation can result in erosion and cracking. The real trouble starts when cracking occurs during heavy rains (or when heavy rains hit and expand an existing crack). This crack will let water into your building, leading to leaks, flooding, and mold. Inspecting your roof annually can prevent major damage.

~Maintain and inspect joints and windows.

Flashing, joints, sealant, windows, etc. Anywhere two planes or surfaces come together, there is potential for leaks. And where there are leaks, there can be mold. These leaks can be caused by the wear down of a material over time, shifting of the property or simply from daily use.

~Prevent frozen pipes.

Business owners should be concerned about frozen pipes as the weather turns cold. Insure the pipes in unheated spaces are properly insulated so that the water inside does not expand and burst. You will also need to keep the temperature on your thermostat set to at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

~ Clearing storm drains.

Storm drains are in place to move excess water away from buildings, driveways, and walkways.  Although it is the cities job to maintain these, being watchful can protect you from flooding and water damage.

~ Power surges.

During inclement weather a power surge can  damage equipment, such as computers, fax machines, etc. Taking precautions here by unplugging devices till power is restored will help save you time and money.

SERVPRO of Longview/Kelso is always ready to help if your property sustains storm, fire, or water damage. Visit our website www.SERVPROlongviewkelso.com or (360)703-3884