How Water Leaking Detection Protects Commercial Buildings
Because commercial buildings, by their nature, are more expensive and less flexible than residential properties, protecting them is even more critical. Property owners know that water leaks are especially problematic. Hidden leaks in walls and ceilings are particularly dangerous, as they can lead to structural issues, create risk to personal safety, and result in the failure of property owner equipment, all of which can incur significant repair bills. Fortunately, the latest methods in water leak detection can pinpoint the issues you are facing before they develop into larger and more costly disasters.
In the modern business world, the ability to manage and secure one’s own building is critical to success. From offices to shopping malls to warehouses to industrial buildings, every building can use water leak detection. New technologies, like thermal imaging and roof leak detection systems, can provide accurate leak detection during the least disruptive times.
The Need to Know About Leaks in Commercial Buildings
Leaks can literally happen anywhere water can go, including in walls, ceilings, roofs, or even underground. Even if the leak is hidden, there is nothing hidden about the dangerous situation the leak is causing. The environment can become even more dangerous and even fatal for employees and visitors as the building’s integrity becomes compromised.
Water leak detection can be expedited by having a professional conduct the detection. This can be costly. However, the costs incurred by undetected leaks are always more costly. Save time and save money by having professionals detect leaks before they are extremely costly, all while keeping the business operational.
Commercial buildings are especially more problematic for management because of the large plumbing systems, large roof structures, large HVAC systems, and the multiple unit floor plans. For new and large systems, leak detection technology can provide them with the assurance that systems can function appropriately and serve their purpose.
Common Causes of Water Leaks in Commercial Properties
water leaking detection are not uncommon in large buildings. Property managers should be able to spot some of the common causes and have strategies to reduce the potential damage.
Older pipes can corrode and weaken over time. As plumbing systems age, they become more susceptible to leaks.
Inclement weather or general wear, can damage commercial roofing systems or cause leaking. This is why professional roof leak detection is so important for commercial properties.
Water can condense and cause damage when a drainage system fails to collect the moisture.
Leaks in subterranean pipes can be the most disruptive and most costly. There are many types of specialized detection equipment that can identify underground water leaks.
Failing to routinely inspect and maintain systems can go a long way in preventing the deterioration of a commercial system.
There is a broad selection of advanced, non-invasive equipment that can quickly locate water leaks with very high accuracy.
Moisture can be perceived with infrared devices. Many cameras highlight temperature differences which can be used to find leaks through a building system.
Some common applications of thermal imaging are:
Detecting Moisture in Walls
Detecting Leaks with Acoustics
Using sensitive listening equipment, this technology detects the sound of water leaking from pipes. Acoustic systems are particularly useful for leaks that are hidden or located underground.
The moisture meter detects moisture content in building materials. It allows the inspector to identify the severity of the water damage.
Detecting Leaks Electrically
The ability to detect leaks in roofing membranes and waterproofing systems using tools that do not result in any damage to the building is called electronic leak detection.
Why is Roof Leak Detection Important?
Commercial roofs are large and are subject to all kinds of weather. Problems in the roof systems, even in the most minor degree, can result in water entering the building and adversely affecting the thermal insulation, building ceilings and even the building’s electrical systems and interior finishing.
Roof leak detection allows professionals to diagnose problems that are in the roof system, and which could remain hidden and unresolved. Unleaking the roof or providing a preventive maintenance inspection will prolong the roof system and save the owner from expensive repairs in the future.
Typical Indicators of Roof Leaks in a Commercial Building
The following are some signs for which a Property Manager should remain alert:
Water stains on ceilings or walls
Paint and surfaces show bubbling
Humidity on the indoors has increased
Water is dripping inside the building when it rains
Energy costs are going up
If any of the above problems are noticed by the building manager, it would not be prudent to ignore them, even if they do not seem to pose an immediate threat.
What are the Benefits of Detecting Water Leaks in a Commercial Building?
Water leaking in building systems leads to the building’s systems weakening. Early detection of leaks is necessary to improve the integrity of the building system.
Decreases Repair Expenses
The cost of repairing extensive damage from water is higher than repairing a broken pipe. Detecting water leaks early can save an businesses from incurring large emergency repair bills.
Commercial buildings usually house expensive machinery, electronics, and goods. Water damage jeopardizes valuable resources and disrupts normal business functions.
Enhances Indoor Air Quality
Moisture provides a suitable environment for mold to flourish, which adversely impacts the quality of indoor air. This, in turn, poses a health risk to both employees and clients.
Conserves Water and Energy
The presence of undetected leaks means a significant amount of water is going to waste. Furthermore, some leaks compel the HVAC system to operate at an elevated and uneconomical level.
Aides in Maintaining Business Operations
Water damage can force a business to cease operations for an extended period of time. Detection of leaks helps prevent costly business interruptions.
The Importance of Timely Roof Leak Detection
Commercial roofs, in particular, should be inspected frequently to avoid long-term consequences. Tomany roof leaks progress slowly and remain concealed until they are externally visible to the occupants of the commercial building.
There are several long-lasting benefits of routine roof leak detection:
Long-term incidence to the roof is prevented
The total cost of upkeep and maintenance is kept to a minimum
The costs of operations are reduced
Technical solutions in the business are optimal
Being proactive to conducting inspections saves the property owner thousands of dollars in the long run.
Business Sectors Where Water Leak Detection Is a Must
There is hardly a commercial or service sector which cannot benefit from leak detection services.
Water leaks can damage computers, chairs, and critical business paper files while ruining the overall pitch of the work environment.
Water leaks can directly or indirectly damage all the goods that are stored within the warehouse and can also adversely impact the safety of personnel.
Retailers are expected to be clean and safe for customers. Finding leaks helps eliminate safety and damage risks.
Water can damage guest satisfaction and force the sale of more rooms.
Hospitals and clinics need to maintain strict animal control. Leaks can cause sanitation and safety concerns.
Many manufacturing operations depend on complex piping systems that need frequent inspection and monitoring.
Preventive Maintenance Tips for Commercial Buildings
Preventive maintenance is the best way to eliminate the risk of water damage. These are some tips for commercial property owners:
Have plumbing inspections completed regularly
Have leak detection done on the roof annually
Ensure roof drains and gutters are kept clear and clean
Controlling leaks and condensation in HVAC systems are a must
Repair roofs and roofing materials immediately
Check for any sharp increases in water bills
Consider the use of thermal imaging on a more regular basis
Taking preventive measures helps avoid costly repairs and unexpected disruptions to business operations.
Choosing Professional Water Leaking Detection Services
When hiring water leak detection services you are getting the right people for the right job. Leak detection professionals use the latest technology and methods to find leaks in the most nonintrusive way.
When looking for leak detection services consider the following:
Has experience in commercial real estate
Use of innovative technology
Has had many satisfied customers
Acceptance of certified inspectors
Provides thorough inspection reports
Trustworthy companies give businesses the ability to make long term maintenance plans and protect their investments.
Thermo elite one of the biggest dangers to a commercial building is water. Hidden leaks lead to mold, erosion, the destruction of equipment, and damage to the structure that is expensive to repair. Water leak detection services find the leaks and save the building from more expensive damage.
The same can be said for the roof. Detecting leaks and other moisture will keep the roof from deteriorating due to the weather, saving the roof and the underlying structure. There will be fewer maintenance costs from leaks. The business will be safe, and the leaks will save costly damage from continuing to disrupt operations.
The first step to saving a commercial building is finding leaks early. The value of the property will be retained with preventive leak detection. The owner and the manager will have a greater peace of mind.
