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Hurricanes can cause significant damage to businesses, leaving behind a trail of destruction that can be difficult to navigate. One of the biggest challenges that businesses and property owners face after a hurricane is identifying the signs of damage and taking appropriate action.
Here are some types of damage that hurricanes typically cause along with a description of how property owners can address them.
Water damage is one of the most common types of damage that businesses experience after a hurricane. It can be caused by storm surges, heavy rainfall, and flooding. Signs of water damage include wet floors, damp walls and ceilings, and visible water stains.
Businesses and property owners need to address water leaks and other water-related damage immediately to prevent mold growth and reduce the risks of more severe structural problems. Removing any standing water, drying out the affected area, and replacing damaged materials are priority actions to take once a hurricane subsides.
Mold is a common problem after hurricanes, as high humidity and moisture levels create the ideal conditions for mold to grow. Signs of mold include a musty odor, visible mold growth on walls or ceilings, and discoloration or staining on surfaces.
Mold can be a serious health hazard, particularly for those with allergies or respiratory problems. A professional mold remediation company can remove the mold and identify other risk areas with excess moisture to prevent future growth.
The higher the winds of a hurricane, the more likely windows are to be damaged or blown out entirely. Repairing windows is vital to protect against water and mold damage, protect building contents, and keep energy bills low during the summer months.
Businesses and owners with property in hurricane-prone areas may want to invest in heavy-duty hurricane glass to reduce the need for future repairs and replacement.
Hurricanes can cause electrical damage, including power outages, damaged wiring, and electrical fires. Signs of electrical damage include flickering lights, sparking outlets, and burning smells.
If you suspect that your business has sustained electrical damage, turn off the power to the affected area and contact a licensed electrician. ATI can help to assess the damage and make any necessary repairs.
Water can damage important papers, equipment, electronics, and more. Sometimes these items can be replaced, but other times they are too costly.
Some restoration companies offer contents salvaging services, including ultrasonic cleaning, deodorizing, and document drying. Reputable providers will offer to photograph, document, inventory, and sort your items before starting the recovery process.
Hurricanes can cause significant structural damage to buildings, including to roofs, walls, and foundations. Signs of structural damage include visible cracks or shifting in the foundation, bowed walls or ceilings, and damaged or missing roof tiles.
Reconstruction service providers can help restore the property to its original condition. A professional should inspect the property to assess the extent of the damage and determine the appropriate course of action. Roof damage from high winds, water, and flying debris must be addressed quickly to seal the building’s envelope and prevent further damage from exposure to the elements. Top disaster recovery professionals can also recommend ways that property owners can strengthen the integrity of their buildings and roofs to reduce the risks before another storm arises.
Identifying the signs of hurricane damage in your business or home is essential for minimizing damage and preventing further problems down the line. Taking immediate action to remediate damage is critical to ensuring the safety of your building and the well-being of its inhabitants.
The professionals at ATI can help mitigate damage when a hurricane strikes. Contact us to learn more about our hurricane recovery services before the next storm forms.