Preventing and Responding to Commercial Pipe Damage

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial pipe damage in Ellisville, MO

When running a business in Ellisville, MO, it is crucial to maintain the foundation of the building. Part of this foundation is the pipes. There are many circumstances that can cause a burst pipe — a problem that can potentially shut down a business and cause lots of damage to the property. One of the most common occurrences is a frozen pipe due to a significant temperature drop or a lack of protection against the elements. Below are some simple ways to protect pipes from freezing and bursting.

Damage Prevention

Stopping a pipe burst essentially comes down to keeping your pipes dry and warm:

• Moisture or standing water around pipes can be dangerous in the event of cold weather.
• Removing excess water around pipes can lessen the chance of freezing.
• Exposed pipes are at a higher risk for freezing.
• Openings around exposed pipes or cracks in insulation can heighten the chance of a problem. Check to make sure the areas around exposed pipes are properly sealed.
• The temperature inside the building has an effect on the temperature of the pipes.
• Maintaining a temperature of above 55 degrees Fahrenheit within a commercial building is crucial to prevent a burst pipe.
  

What To Do When a Pipe Freezes

If a pipe freezes, there is usually the possibility of thawing it out before any damage is done. Turning off the water at the main point of access will lessen the chances of overwhelming a pipe and causing it to burst.
However, if a pipe does freeze and burst, it is important to get immediate help. The longer a broken pipe goes unresolved, the more damage it is likely to do. A professional cleaning and restoration company should be contacted to fix the problem and take care of any lasting effects or water damage.
Pipe damage can be stressful and overwhelming. Frequently checking on the condition of pipes, especially those exposed to the elements, is consequential in how quickly a problem can be identified and solved. Taking the proper steps to minimize the effects of a burst pipe is advantageous to the overall maintenance and health of a business.