Correlated Effects of Flood Damage in Mount Vernon Offices

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding can introduce contaminants to the building when rising waters penetrate the main level of the structure.

Flood Damage Can Impact Mount Vernon Offices in Several Ways

Flooding can be uniquely challenging from one property to the next as different materials are affected, multiple floors of a structure, and sensitive equipment of an office building. Regardless of how flood damages occur, it is essential to note the kind of related impact it could have on the entire building. Appreciating the scope of damage shows how relying on experienced restoration professionals is wise.

Structural Deterioration

Flood damage in Mount Vernon office buildings spreads rapidly. One of the first things that responding technicians recognize is migrating surface water's impact on exposed elements. Prolonged moisture absorption and saturation weaken building materials like flooring, wall systems, and ceiling tiles. Sagging or damaged construction materials pose a safety risk to employees if you continue to operate partially during restoration. 

Contaminants and Pathogenic Threats

Flooding can introduce contaminants to the building when rising waters penetrate the main level of the structure. Biohazardous conditions must be met urgently, as exposed porous materials must be demolished and removed to prevent continually worsening pathogenic and bacterial threats. 

Debris and Muck

Natural flooding can also bring in types of debris and waste. Muck-out cleaning is an essential part of post-flood damage mitigation. There are several substances, chemicals, and matter that can mix with intruding water, but the muck-out cleaning process typically focuses on:

• Organic matter
• Mud
• Silt

Mold and Microbial Development

The moist conditions and amplified presence of microbes after a flood increase the probabilities of mold development. Organic materials like drywall and flooring are often targets for colonization, and the growth of these organisms poses a threat to exposed staff, customers, and structural elements. 

Flooding is one of the more threatening situations for a commercial property like an open floorplan of an office building. Standing water spreads fast and deliberate mitigation is needed to help. Our SERVPRO of Skagit County team is available 24/7 when you call (360) 873-8744.