At ServiceMaster Restoration by McCoy, we know that owning a historic commercial property is both a privilege and a responsibility. In Mooresville and throughout Iredell County, these buildings represent not only business investments but also important pieces of North Carolina’s cultural and architectural heritage. However, their age and construction make them especially vulnerable to water damage. With North Carolina’s humid subtropical climate, averaging 67% humidity year-round, moisture poses a constant threat. Combined with aging infrastructure, even minor leaks can lead to costly structural issues. Preventing water damage in a historic commercial building requires balancing preservation with modern protective solutions.
In this guide, we highlight the unique vulnerabilities of older commercial properties, outline common water entry points, and share essential steps for long-term protection.
Unique Water Damage Vulnerabilities in Historic Commercial Buildings
Historic commercial buildings in Mooresville, Salisbury, Hickory, and surrounding communities often face challenges not found in newer structures. Original construction materials and methods, while durable for their time, were not designed to withstand today’s environmental demands.
Aging Foundation Systems - Many historic Mooresville properties were built with stone, brick, or unreinforced masonry foundations. These systems lack the waterproofing membranes and drainage solutions used in modern construction, leaving them prone to:
Groundwater infiltration during heavy rains
Moisture wicking, where water seeps upward into walls
Cracks that expand over decades of freeze-thaw cycles in North Carolina’s seasonal climate
Outdated Roofing Materials - Roofing systems are another weak point. Historic properties often feature slate, clay tiles, or early membrane roofing that has deteriorated over time. Typical issues include:
Broken or slipping tiles that leave gaps
Rusted flashing around chimneys and parapets
Patchwork repairs that fail to meet preservation standards
These vulnerabilities make roofs in areas such as Mecklenburg, Catawba, and Lincoln counties especially susceptible to leaks during summer storms.
Common Water Entry Points in Historic Commercial Properties
Preventing water damage requires knowing the most common areas of entry. In historic buildings, age, weathering, and outdated materials often combine to create multiple risk points. In downtown Mooresville and Salisbury, many commercial properties still feature original wooden windows and door frames. While aesthetically valuable, wood expands, contracts, and deteriorates with constant moisture exposure. Common problems include:
Failed caulking or weatherstripping
Warped frames that leave openings during storms
Rusted or deteriorated hardware that prevents tight sealing
Plumbing systems in older commercial properties often predate modern building codes. Pipes and utility lines may run through walls and floors without proper sealing, creating leak risks such as:
Corroded cast-iron or galvanized steel plumbing
Brittle supply lines that crack under pressure
Poorly sealed HVAC and electrical penetrations
Even a small hidden leak can spread quickly in an older structure, leading to mold growth and the gradual weakening of historic materials.
Essential Steps on How to Prevent Water Damage
Although historic commercial buildings have unique vulnerabilities, proactive maintenance and targeted upgrades can significantly reduce the risk of water damage. Here are some steps we recommend for property owners in Mooresville and across Iredell County:
Schedule Regular Inspections - We suggest quarterly inspections of roofing, foundations, and the building envelope. Our evaluations can catch early warning signs, such as cracks, damaged flashing, or moisture stains, before they escalate.
Upgrade Drainage and Gutters - Gutters and downspouts should be kept clear and direct water at least 10 feet away from the foundation. In flood-prone areas like Hickory or Catawba, we often recommend additional drainage solutions such as French drains or sump pumps.
Seal Windows and Doors - We encourage preserving the architectural character of historic windows and doors through repair rather than replacement whenever possible. Applying weatherstripping, reapplying caulk at joints, and installing storm windows can add protection without compromising aesthetics.
Install Modern Waterproofing Solutions - Today’s waterproofing materials can be adapted to historic structures while preserving authenticity. Effective options include:
Vapor-permeable sealants for masonry walls
Below-grade waterproofing membranes designed for older foundations
Roof coatings that extend the life of slate or tile roofing systems
Update Plumbing Systems - If your building still relies on outdated pipes, we recommend upgrading to modern materials like copper or PEX to prevent leaks and reduce long-term risks.
Together, these strategies help preserve both the historical significance and functional value of your property.
How We Protect Historic Commercial Properties
Even with preventive measures in place, historic buildings in Mooresville and the surrounding region may still experience water intrusion due to their age. That’s where our specialized expertise makes the difference. Our team at ServiceMaster Restoration by McCoy has extensive experience protecting historic commercial properties throughout Iredell, Cabarrus, and Caldwell counties. We understand the balance between maintaining architectural authenticity and implementing modern protection methods. Every prevention and restoration plan is tailored to respect historic materials while safeguarding against moisture damage. When prevention isn’t enough, rapid response is critical. We offer 24/7 emergency services, using advanced drying and restoration techniques specifically designed for older buildings. Our approach minimizes disruption while preserving architectural character. From preventive maintenance to full emergency recovery, our services help ensure that historic commercial buildings remain both functional and preserved for future generations.
Preserve the Past While Safeguarding the Future
Owning a historic commercial building in Mooresville or nearby areas like Salisbury, Hickory, and Lincoln County is both an honor and a responsibility. These properties connect us to the past, but their age makes them especially vulnerable to water damage. At ServiceMaster Restoration by McCoy, we provide prevention strategies and rapid response services that safeguard both structural integrity and historical value.
Contact us today to learn how our tailored solutions can help protect your historic commercial building from water damage.
