Ashland business owners face water damage risks during fall and early winter due to rapid temperature drops and humidity. The Ohio River Valley climate brings humidity during the summer and below-freezing temperatures in later months, and this combination can cause hidden leaks to create lasting damage in commercial spaces. If you own or operate a business in Ashland, learning how to spot water damage can prevent structural damage and protect daily operations.
Common Sources of Water Damage in Ashland Buildings
Seasonal challenges and river proximity contribute to the risk of commercial water damage in Ashland. The city is near the Ohio River, which means property owners may be affected by flash flooding. Freeze-thaw cycles in late fall can crack pipes and roofing materials, and ice dams can lead to interior and exterior damage.
In addition to extreme weather conditions, plumbing malfunctions are leading causes of water damage and moisture problems. HVAC and plumbing issues should be quickly fixed to prevent mold growth and musty odors. If you have an older HVAC system, there may be a buildup of condensation that is silently damaging your building. Older properties may also struggle with hidden pipe leaks in basements or behind walls.
How to Spot the Early Warning Signs
Commercial property owners are encouraged to be aware of the early warning signs of water damage. If you think your business may be affected by water intrusion, check for water stains on ceilings and walls. If there is bubbling or peeling paint, there could be additional damage that is silently deteriorating your property. Check for warped baseboards and flooring, and know who to call when your building needs a restoration.
Other hidden clues business owners miss include a persistent odor in enclosed rooms. Mold growth can quickly begin after water damage, and its presence creates moldy or mildewy smells that are difficult to eliminate. Hire a professional if you see mold spots behind storage shelves or file cabinets, and check your monthly water usage. If you notice a sudden spike in the bill without explanation, this could be a sign of a silent problem that’s harming your business.
High-Risk Areas to Inspect in Commercial Spaces
- Utility and Maintenance Rooms:Utility rooms typically contain water heaters, sump pumps, and utility sinks that can silently leak over time. Check the floors and walls of your maintenance room to catch standing water early and prevent mold growth.
- Ceilings and Rooflines: Clogged gutters in the fall lead to roof leaks that worsen in freezing temperatures. Freeze-thaw cycles and ice dams can also damage both the interior and exterior of commercial properties.
- Basements and Crawlspaces: Lower levels of buildings are susceptible to extensive water damage. These areas are especially prone to unnoticed water seepage that leads to costly repairs in the future.
What Can Happen If You Wait Too Long?
Business owners are never advised to wait long for professional assistance. If extreme weather conditions have decimated your property, it is important to act quickly to give yourself the best chance at making a full recovery. Procrastinating can result in structural damage and safety risks. Rotted beams damaged drywall, and weekend foundations can impact business continuity. Secondary damage also commonly results in health and compliance concerns for companies. Mold growth risks employee and customer health.
Prevention Tips for Ashland Business Owners
Investing time and money into damage prevention is highly recommended. If you own a business in Ashland, taking time to implement the following prevention measures may be beneficial:
- Schedule Pre-Winter Inspections: To identify hidden moisture zones, hire professionals to conduct a thorough assessment of your property. The use of infrared technology and moisture detection tools can identify damage early and prevent future problems.
- Maintain Roofs and Gutters: Clean out leaves before the first freeze, and ensure proper drainage allows water to flow away from the building’s foundation.
- Monitor Indoor Humidity Levels: Use commercial dehumidifiers in storage areas and watch for condensation buildup near vents or windows.
What to Do If You Find Signs of Water Damage
If you know how to spot water damage and you detect early signs of complications, there are immediate steps that must be taken. Shut off the source of the leak if possible and begin documenting damage for your future claim submission. Next, call a commercial restoration team. Working with certified professionals is the best way to swiftly mitigate damage and restore properties deeply affected by structural moisture.
Local Help from a Team That Knows Ashland’s Climate
Local experience matters. Our team understands Ashland’s seasonal risks and older commercial infrastructure. We serve local businesses throughout the city—from the Ashland Town Center area to offices along Carter Avenue and Greenup Avenue. Quickly responding to urgent requests is essential to the well-being of our customers, which is why our mobile technicians are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
At ServiceMaster Fire and Water Restoration by A-1, we prioritize the needs of local property owners, and our emergency technicians respond quickly to service requests. We offer emergency water mitigation, dehumidification, and structural drying. Our restoration services can be customized to fit virtually any business’s layout, industry, and compliance requirements.
Get Ahead of Winter Damage
Water damage caught early can save thousands in repairs and days of lost productivity. If you own or operate a commercial building, the importance of knowing how to spot water damage cannot be overstated. Before the cold weather rolls in, contact ServiceMaster Fire and Water Restoration by A-1 for a seasonal check or emergency response plan. Contact us at 606-230-3657 or click here to request a free quote.
