How to Weatherproof Your Business

Business owners and managers want to keep their employees safe and protect their capital investments.

At times, adverse weather can cause damage from water, wind, hail, and ice not only to the exterior of your business, but also to the interior.

Some preventative steps can help weatherproof your business.

Prevent Water From Getting In

Rain and snow can cause damage from water leakage through roofs, windows, basements, and foundations. It’s more than a cosmetic problem.

Water damage can ruin walls and weaken ceilings and floors. It also leads to deadly mold. Your equipment and electronics are also vulnerable to water leakage. 

Regular inspections of roofs, gutters, downspouts, and door and window frames are your first defense against water leaks.

Also make sure any sump pumps are working correctly. Outdoors, keep storm drains and gutters cleared of leaves and debris to help prevent flooding.

Use Waterproof Materials

Waterproofing materials can protect your structure and equipment and make the workplace safer for employees.

Several types of waterproofing paints and coatings can be applied to walls, basements, and foundations. Waterproof flooring materials include sealed concrete, vinyl sheet, and vinyl plank.

Outdoors, walkways and parking lots should also be treated for water intrusion. Water damage can cause cracking and crumbling.

Pay attention to details such as doors, window frames, and signage. Your outdoor signs should be UV and water resistant. Signs, windows, and awnings are often the most vulnerable in storms.

Protect from Wind

Wind is also a serious consequence of storms, and you don’t need to experience a hurricane or tornado for damage to occur.

High-velocity wind gusts and straight line winds can rip off roofing or send debris crashing into windows and signs.

To weatherproof your business against wind, start by taking a close look at your landscaping. Falling tree limbs are a major cause of damage.

Remove any loose branches and trim trees and bushes so they are not scraping the exterior of the building.

Any objects kept outdoors, such as trash cans or displays, should be secured if a storm is approaching.

While weather damage will usually be covered by your insurance, waiting for a claim to be resolved can be disruptive and interfere with your business operations.

It’s a good idea to do what you can to weatherproof your business, both inside and outdoors. A few preventative steps can help to protect your investment.

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