Tag Archive for: Commercial Roofing In Atlanta Ga

Commercial Roof Damage – When to Call a Professional Roofer

Avoid business closure and revenue loss from a damaged and leaking commercial roof. Recognizing commercial roof damage and when to call a professional roofer keeps your business safe and protected from the elements.

Damage and repair commercial roof

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered information about commercial roofing system damage requiring roof repair or replacement by a commercial roofer and how a maintenance program protects your home.

Identifying Damage on Low-Slope Membrane Roofs

Damage and repair commercial low slope roof

Low-slope membrane roofs are typical for commercial buildings due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of installation. However, these roofs have specific weaknesses, especially in handling water drainage and UV exposure.

Ponding Water – When water accumulates on low-slope roofs, it poses a severe threat. Ponding water weakens the roofing material, increases the leak risks, and creates an ideal environment for mold and algae growth. Water that does not drain within 48 hours requires immediate attention. Call a professional roofer to install corrective drainage or adjust the slope to allow proper water flow.

Blistering and Bubbling – Blistering occurs when air or moisture becomes trapped beneath the membrane. This can result from poor installation, severe weather, or general aging. Blisters weaken the roof’s surface, increasing the risk of leaks and structural issues. Address blistering and bubbling promptly, as even small blisters can burst and lead to water infiltration.

Cracks or Tears in the Membrane – The membrane material on low-slope roofs faces regular strain from temperature changes, expansion, and contraction. Cracks or tears in the membrane compromise the roof’s integrity, increasing the risk of leaks and water damage. These issues often occur in high-traffic areas or near HVAC units. Don’t ignore cracks—early repairs prevent costly water damage.

Metal Roof Damage

Damage and repair commercial metal roof penetrations

Metal roofs are known for their durability and energy efficiency, making them a popular roof for commercial properties. However, even metal roofs can suffer damage over time.

Rust and Corrosion – Metal roofs are susceptible to rust, especially if the coating wears off or the roof experiences prolonged exposure to moisture. Rust weakens the metal, creating holes that allow water infiltration. Regular inspections help catch rust early, but visible corrosion means immediate repairs are necessary to prevent further damage.

Loose or Missing Fasteners – Strong winds, expansion, and contraction can loosen or dislodge fasteners, creating gaps in the roofing material. Loose fasteners allow water to penetrate the roof, leading to leaks and moisture damage. Call a roofer to inspect and replace missing fasteners as soon as you notice this issue.

Panel Lifting and Warping – Temperature fluctuations cause metal panels to expand and contract, leading to panel lifting or warping. These deformations increase the risk of leaks, as water can seep between the lifted panels. A professional roofer can assess the damage and secure or replace panels.

Built-Up Roofing (BUR) Warning Signs

Damage and repair commercial built up roof

Built-up roofing (BUR) is bitumen, tar, or asphalt layers topped with gravel or mineral surfaces. A built-up roof requires regular maintenance to prevent deterioration.

Alligatoring – This condition refers to cracks and splits in the roof’s surface, like an alligator’s skin. This issue often results from prolonged UV exposure and aging. Alligatoring compromises the roof’s ability to repel water, leading to leaks and water damage. If you see alligatoring, act quickly as delayed repairs can worsen the damage.

Gravel Erosion – BUR roofs rely on gravel to protect the underlying layers from UV radiation. Over time, weather conditions and debris can cause gravel displacement, exposing the bitumen or asphalt layers. Without gravel, these layers become vulnerable to UV damage and degradation. Replacing displaced gravel maintains the roof’s protection.

Blistering – BUR roofs can develop blisters due to trapped air or moisture within the layers. Blistering weakens the roofing surface and can lead to leaks. Contact a roofer immediately if you see blisters on a BUR roof, as they often signal compromised layers that allow water to infiltrate the structure.

Roof Maintenance Contract for Commercial Properties

Damage inspection and repair commercial roof

A roof maintenance contract offers essential care for commercial roofs, ensuring routine inspections and upkeep. Professional roofers can spot emerging issues like loose panels, small cracks, or blistering before they escalate, ultimately saving property owners from costly repairs. Maintenance contracts not only protect the roof itself but also preserve the structural integrity and assets inside the building.

Through a maintenance contract, commercial building owners receive regular inspections and prioritized service, keeping the roof in optimal condition and preventing disruptions to daily operations. Routine inspections, including post-storm evaluations, detect wear or damage immediately. A roofer’s trained eye identifies subtle issues that might go unnoticed during casual observations, like slight panel shifts or minor membrane damage.

Annual Inspections – Annual inspections are a vital component of commercial roof care. During these evaluations, professional roofers assess the roof’s condition, checking for damage, wear, and potential vulnerabilities.

Early Leak Detection – Leaks are the most common problem for commercial roofs. They lead to water damage, mold growth, and structural concerns if left unaddressed. An inspection catches signs of leaks before they affect the building’s interior, reducing repair costs.

Identifying Structural Issues – Harsh weather, wind, and heavy rain can impact a roof’s structural integrity, leading to gradual weakening over time. Inspections reveal areas with minor weaknesses that might worsen under extreme weather conditions, such as fasteners coming loose on a metal roof or small cracks on a BUR surface.

Improving Longevity – Regular maintenance extends a roof’s lifespan. Commercial roofs can serve a building for decades (with proper maintenance), eliminating the need for premature replacements. Quality care, including regular inspections and timely repairs, keeps the roof performing at its best.

When to Call a Professional Roofer

Professional roofer damage and repair commercial roof

Knowing when to call a professional roofer can be the difference between a minor repair and a significant overhaul. Commercial roofs face exposure to harsh elements, making regular inspections and maintenance essential. Address issues like ponding water, rust, gravel displacement, or blistering quickly to prevent them from escalating.

Commercial roof repairs require specialized skills and equipment, so relying on a professional ensures the job is done correctly and safely. Professional roofers bring expertise to every inspection, repair, and maintenance task, allowing building owners to focus on their business operations.

Commercial Roof and Investment Protection

In this article, you discovered how to identify commercial roof damage, when to call a professional roofer, and how a maintenance program can prevent leaks and costly repairs.

Recognizing early damage signs, knowing when to call a professional roofer, and having a roof maintenance contract help business owners save money and protect company assets.

Failure to recognize roof damage can lead to severe leaks, extensive property damage, business closure, revenue loss, and costly repairs.

Sources:
gsa.gov/real-estate/historic-preservation/historic-preservation-policy-tools/preservation-tools-resources/technical-procedures/types-of-flat-roofing-and-factors-affecting-its-deterioration
ibhs.org/wp-content/uploads/Commercial-Roofs-Best-Practices.pdf
campuspress.yale.edu/ledger/how-to-stay-on-top-of-your-commercial-building-maintenance/

  New Image Roofing Atlanta
 

    2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
    Atlanta, GA 30318
    (404) 680-0041
 
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Lightning Strikes on Commercial Roofs – Risks, Damage, and Prevention

Avoid revenue loss, severe structural damage, and destructive power surges when lightning strikes your commercial building. Understanding the power lightning carries and how to divert it will help prevent catastrophic lightning damage to your building and business.

Lightning damage commercial roof

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered information about how lightning strikes wreak havoc on electrical systems, appliances, and structural elements and what you can do to mitigate them.

What Attracts Lightning to Commercial Buildings?

Lightning naturally seeks the shortest and easiest path to the ground. It is attracted to:

Tall Structures – Taller buildings and structures become prime targets for lightning strikes. The higher a building rises above its surroundings, the greater the chance lightning will strike it. This is particularly true for skyscrapers, factories, and commercial complexes.

Metallic Objects – Lightning also seeks conductive materials like metals. Many commercial buildings use metal roofs, have rooftop equipment, or feature metal structures that make them more attractive to lightning.

Rooftop Equipment – Antennas, HVAC units, satellite dishes, and other equipment on commercial roofs provide pathways for lightning to reach the building’s electrical systems.

These objects increase the likelihood of a direct hit during a storm.

Water or Moisture – Wet surfaces act as efficient conductors for electricity. A wet commercial roof, especially metal, can amplify the chances of a lightning strike and increase the damage potential.

Visit FEMA’s National Lightning Risk Index to see your area’s relative risk for lightning strikes HERE.

Energy in a Lightning Strike

Powerful lightning damage commercial roof

Lightning carries immense energy, capable of causing catastrophic damage. The average lightning bolt can have between 1 billion and 10 billion volts of electricity, with current ranging from 30,000 to 300,000 amperes.

The energy released during a lightning strike happens in microseconds, making it incredibly destructive. The heat and force can set fire to combustible materials. At the same time, the sheer electrical energy can cause massive surges in electrical systems.

Note: A lightning strike can exceed 50,000°F (five times hotter than the sun’s surface).

Potential Damage to Commercial Buildings and Electronics

A lightning strike on a commercial roof can cause multiple damage types, ranging from minor structural issues to significant system failures. These are among the most common damages:

Fire – The extreme temperatures generated by a lightning strike can ignite roofing materials, insulation, or even the building’s framing. Commercial buildings with combustible roofing material or stored flammable materials are particularly vulnerable to lightning fires.

Roof Damage – A lightning strike can blow holes in a roof, crack tiles, damage membranes, or displace entire sections of roofing material. These openings allow water to enter the building, leading to leaks and further structural damage.

Electrical Surges – When lightning strikes a commercial building, the electrical surge that follows can:

  • Overload wiring systems
  • Destroy electronics
  • Seize HVAC systems
  • Shut down security systems
  • Render essential building infrastructure (including elevators) unusable

Computers, servers, and other equipment sensitive to power surges are especially at risk.

Electronics lightning damage commercial roof

Structural Damage – A lightning strike can disrupt structural elements. A lightning strike can crack walls, damage windows, and shift a building’s foundation. These damages pose severe risks to the building’s safety and stability.

Who to Call After a Lightning Strike

Emergency responders lightning damage commercial roof

After a lightning strike, taking immediate action to assess the damage and ensure the building’s occupant’s safety is crucial. Here’s who you should contact:

Emergency Services – If you detect any fire or gas leaks following a lightning strike (call emergency services immediately). Firefighters can quickly address visible fires, while police can help secure the area if needed.

Electrician – A licensed electrician should assess the electrical systems for damage. Electrical surges from lightning can cause hidden damage to wiring, outlets, and equipment that may not be immediately visible but can pose a risk of fires or system failures later on.

Roofing Contractor – A ROOFING PROFESSIONAL needs to inspect the roof for punctures, cracks, or any damage to the roofing materials. Even small holes can lead to significant water damage over time if not repaired promptly.

HVAC Technician – Many commercial buildings have HVAC units installed on the roof, which are highly vulnerable during a lightning strike. A technician should inspect HVAC systems to ensure they function without severe electrical damage.

Insurance Company – Contact your insurance provider to report the damage and initiate a claim. Document all visible damage, including photographs and written descriptions, as part of the claim process.

Watch this video for more information about insurance policies and how deductibles work.

Preventing Lightning Damage to Commercial Buildings

While you cannot prevent lightning strikes, you can take measures to reduce damage risks and protect your building. Here are some steps building owners can take:

Install a Lightning Protection System (LPS) – A lightning protection system consists of lightning rods, conductor cables, and ground rods that work together to safely direct the energy from a lightning strike away from the building and into the ground. LPS systems are essential for taller buildings or in areas prone to thunderstorms.

Lightning damage commercial roof protection system

Lightning Rods – These rods, installed on the roof or other high points, attract and minimize lightning strikes.

Conductors – These cables carry the electrical charge from the rod down to the ground without letting it pass through the building.

Grounding System – Ground rods safely dissipate the energy into the ground, preventing it from entering the building’s systems.

Use Surge Protectors – Commercial buildings should have surge protection devices (SPDs) in their electrical systems. These devices protect against voltage spikes caused by lightning strikes and prevent damage to sensitive electronics.

Whole-building surge protectors work by diverting excess voltage away from electrical systems, ensuring appliances, computers, and other devices do not suffer damage.

Maintain a Safe Distance Between Trees and Buildings – Trees near commercial buildings can act as lightning attractors. If a lightning strike hits a tree, it may cause large branches to fall on the roof, leading to additional damage. Regular tree trimming and ensuring no large trees are close to the building will help reduce this risk.

Install Non-Conductive Roofing Materials – Buildings with metal roofing systems are more attractive to lightning strikes due to metal’s conductive nature. Consider installing non-metallic roofing materials that offer fire resistance, reducing the likelihood of fires after a strike.

HVAC and Rooftop Equipment Shielding – Ensure rooftop equipment like HVAC systems, antennas, and satellite dishes are properly shielded and grounded to protect them from lightning damage. Adding surge protectors for these systems can further prevent damage.

Lightning and Commercial Buildings

In this article, you discovered how lightning strikes are attracted to commercial buildings, the damage they cause, how to divert them, and what to do after one.

Knowing how to divert or prevent commercial building lightning strikes can help you avoid severe structural and electrical damage.

Ignoring the need for lightning protection systems and using non-conductive material in your building’s construction can lead to catastrophic damage to your structure and electronic systems/equipment and result in indefinite business closure.

Sources:
noaa.gov/jetstream/lightning/lightning-safety
nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/Legacy/IR/nistir89-4113.pdf

  New Image Roofing Atlanta
 

    2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
    Atlanta, GA 30318
    (404) 680-0041
 
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A Tree Fell on My Roof – How to Respond

Avoid panic and despair when a tree falls on your roof. Knowing how to promptly respond to a tree falling on your roof will help you minimize structural damages while restoring a safe and secure home for your loved ones.

Emergency repair or replacement after tree fell on roof

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered crucial information about when a tree falls on your roof, ensuing inspections, recovery and repairs, and who to contact.

Immediate Damages to the Roof and Home

When a tree falls on your roof (shingle or membrane), the damage is immediate and potentially catastrophic. Whether a sloped (shingle) or low-slope roof, a tree impact can lead to severe structural damage, roof collapse, and secondary water, electrical, and gas problems. Consider the following:

Sloped Shingle Roofs

Emergency repairs after tree fell on house

Sloped shingle roofs, often found on residential homes, are more vulnerable to immediate damage when a tree falls on them. A tree impact can cause the following damage:

Roof Penetration – Depending on the tree’s size and weight, it can break through the shingle layers, underlayment, and sheathing, causing a large hole in the roof. This exposes your home to the elements, allowing rainwater, debris, and wind to enter the structure.

Structural Damage – Roof trusses and support beams, designed to hold up the roof, may be severely compromised. A heavy tree could cause the trusses to buckle or collapse entirely, damaging inside the home.

Water Damage – Once a roof is penetrated, rainwater can enter the attic and living spaces. Over time, this can lead to significant water damage, including mold growth, damage to insulation, and rot in the wooden roof and ceiling structures.

Gutter and Drainage Damage – A fallen tree can also damage gutters, downspouts, and the drainage system, causing water to accumulate around the foundation or enter the home through other vulnerabilities.

Low-Slope Roofs

Low-slope roofs, common on commercial buildings or modern homes, can also suffer severe damage from a tree fall. However, the damage may differ slightly from that of sloped roofs:

Membrane Damage – Low-slope roofs typically use a membrane (like TPO, EPDM, or PVC) for waterproofing. A tree impact can puncture or tear the membrane, allowing water to seep into the building.

Pooling Water – Low-slope roofs are more prone to water pooling. If a tree causes a depression or puncture, water may collect, worsening the damage and increasing the leak potential.

Ponding water after tree fell on roof

Structural Integrity – A large tree may cause a partial or complete collapse of the roof structure, leading to safety concerns for the structure’s occupants and making the roof unsafe for repair crews.

Inspecting Your Home After a Tree Impact

After a tree falls on your home, the first priority is safety. You should evacuate and call emergency services if there is any risk of injury or further damage. Here’s who to contact after the initial incident:

Emergency Services – If the tree has caused structural or physical damage, gas leaks, or electrical hazards, call 911 for immediate assistance.

Tree Removal Services – Contact a licensed tree removal service to safely remove the tree from your roof. Avoid trying to remove it yourself, as the weight and balance of the tree could cause further damage or injury.

Removal and emergency repair after tree fell on roof

Tip: Have the tree removal service tarp the affected area until a roofer can get onsite to evaluate the damage and begin emergency roof repairs or replacement.

Roofer – Hire a licensed roofing contractor to assess and repair the roof. They will check for broken trusses, holes, and water damage that may not be immediately visible.

For a free roof inspection and repair or replacement quote, contact newimageroofingatlanta.com today.

Gas, Water, and Electric Companies – After a tree impact, there is a risk that gas lines, water pipes, or electrical wiring may have been damaged. Contact the respective utility companies to inspect the home and ensure no leaks or fire hazards persist.

General Contractor – Once the roof and utilities are secured, a general contractor can assess any interior damage to walls, ceilings, and floors. They will coordinate necessary repairs to return your home to a livable condition.

Inspection Checklist

Water system leaks after tree fell on roof

Here are areas to thoroughly inspect after a tree falls on your roof:

Water Lines – Check for leaks or ruptures in the plumbing system if the tree has penetrated the roof into the living spaces.

Electrical Lines – Look for exposed wiring, shorts, or electrical fires. If you detect any issues, turn off the electricity at the main breaker and call an electrician.

Tip: If the tree fell through your power lines or the home’s connection, call your electric company to turn off the power until repairs are completed.

Gas Connections – If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, evacuate immediately and call the gas company. A fallen tree could dislodge or break gas lines, leading to dangerous leaks.

Structural Integrity – Beyond the roof itself, inspect support beams, walls, and floors for shifting, cracks, or collapse.

Preventing Tree-Related Damage

Tree maintenance and pruning

While a tree falling on your home can seem like an unpredictable event, there are several steps you can take to prevent or minimize the damage:

Regular Tree Maintenance – One of the best ways to prevent a tree from falling on your home is by regularly maintaining the trees on your property. This includes trimming dead or weak branches, removing diseased trees, and ensuring that large trees are healthy and stable.

Plant Trees Away from Structures – When planting trees, place them far away from your home so (if they were to fall) they can’t reach the roof.

Note: Fast-growing trees can reach dangerous heights quickly, so it’s crucial to plan ahead.

Professional Tree Inspections – Hire a local arborist to inspect the trees on your property, especially if they are old or have suffered damage from storms. A professional can identify early signs of decay, disease, or weakness that may lead to a tree falling.

Find or verify an arborist HERE.

Install Impact-Resistant Roofing Materials – Consider upgrading to impact-resistant roofing materials. These materials, like metal or asphalt shingles with a Class 4 rating, are designed to withstand heavy impacts and may reduce the severity of damage if a tree falls on your home.

Post-Tree Fall Resources for Property Owners

After the tree is removed and your home is secured, you may need to contact several resources to assist in the recovery process:

Insurance Company – File a claim with your homeowner’s insurance provider to cover the costs of repairs and tree removal. Document all damages with photos and maintain receipts for any emergency expenses.

Watch this video for more information about insurance policies and deductibles.

Property Management – If you rent your home, contact your property manager to coordinate repairs and assessments with contractors.

Power Company – If the tree affected power lines, contact your local utility company to inspect and restore electrical services when it’s safe.

Water Company – If water lines are damaged, the water company can help repair them and ensure no leaks or contamination risks persist.

Gas Company – Ensure that any gas lines or meters affected by the tree impact are inspected and safely restored by your gas provider.

By taking prompt action and working with professionals, you can recover from the damages caused by a fallen tree while preventing further harm to your home.

Tree Roof Damage

In this article, you discovered what happens when a tree falls on your roof, who to call after a tree emergency, preventive measures, and crucial resources for homeowners.

Knowing what to do after a tree falls on your roof allows you to quickly initiate the repair and recovery process, returning your home to normal.

A delayed response to a tree falling on your home can result in severe or irreparable structural damage, potentially life-threatening situations, and costly repairs.

Sources:
ready.gov/thunderstorms-lightning
treesaregood.org/treeowner/treehazards
iii.org/article/if-a-tree-falls-on-your-house-are-you-covered

  New Image Roofing Atlanta
 

    2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
    Atlanta, GA 30318
    (404) 680-0041
 
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Your Commercial Building and Roof after a Fire – What to Do Next

Avoid prolonged business closure and revenue loss when a fire damages your commercial building. Knowing how to react to a building fire will save lives and minimize structural and cosmetic damage.

Fire damage commercial building roofing system

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered crucial information about emergency procedures, damage assessment, cleanup, and restoration when a fire breaks out in your commercial building.

1. Evacuating a Commercial Building

A commercial building fire can be devastating and costly. Immediate action after the event can help mitigate damage and ensure a safe return to business operations. Consider the following information:

Stay Calm and Follow the Evacuation Plan

Fire alarm activation commercial building and roof fire damage recovery

The first and most crucial step during a fire is ensuring everyone’s safety. Ensure your commercial building has a well-communicated and regularly practiced evacuation plan. During a fire:

  • Activate the Fire Alarm: Ensure the fire alarm system is triggered to alert all occupants in the building.
  • Guide Employees and Visitors: Designated fire wardens should guide everyone to the nearest safe exit, following the evacuation routes.
  • Avoid Elevators: Use stairways, not elevators, as elevators could malfunction or become traps during a fire.
  • Close Doors Behind You: As you exit, close doors to contain the fire and slow its spread.
  • Account for Everyone: Once outside, gather at a pre-designated assembly point and account for all employees and visitors.

Assist The Elderly and Disabled

Ensure that elderly and disabled occupants are given priority assistance and have an assigned helper if needed. Ensure all staff knows the procedures for assisting anyone needing extra help evacuating.

2. Calling Emergency Responders

Emergency services for commercial building and roof fire damage recovery

Contact 911 Immediately

As soon as the fire is detected, call 911 to report the fire. Provide the dispatcher with:

  • The building’s address.
  • The nature of the fire (if known).
  • Any known hazards, like flammable materials.
  • The number of people in the building, if known.
  • The condition of the fire (e.g., visible flames, smoke).

Tip: While some fire alarms automatically alert emergency responders, call them anyway. The fire could disrupt communication lines.

Notify Key Personnel

Contact building management, security, and other essential personnel to inform them of the situation. This ensures that everyone is aware and can assist in managing the emergency.

3. Cleanup After the Fire

Cleanup after commercial building and roof fire damage

Prompt action after a fire is required to halt soot’s acidic properties and remove lingering odors from the building. Consider the following steps to make your commercial building habitable again:

Assess the Damage

Once the fire is extinguished and it’s safe to re-enter the building, conduct a damage assessment. This includes:

  • Smoke and Soot Damage: Smoke and soot can cause extensive damage to walls, ceilings, and furniture. The acidic nature of smoke and soot can corrode metals and stain surfaces if not removed promptly.
  • Water Damage: Water used to extinguish the fire can also cause damage. Flooded areas, soaked walls, and electrical systems must be addressed immediately to prevent further damage, corrosion, or mold growth.
  • Structural Damage: Inspect the building for any structural damage signs. Pay particular attention to load-bearing walls, support beams, and the roof.

Hire a Professional Cleanup Crew

Consider hiring a professional fire damage restoration company to ensure a thorough cleanup and restoration job. They have the tools and expertise to:

  • Remove Smoke and Soot Residue: Use specialized cleaning agents and equipment to remove smoke and soot from surfaces.
  • Water Extraction and Drying: Use high-powered fans and dehumidifiers to dry out soaked areas and prevent mold growth.
  • Debris Removal: Safely remove fire-damaged materials and debris from the site.

Air Out the Building

Open windows and doors to ventilate the building. This helps to remove lingering smoke odors and starts the drying process for any water-damaged areas.

4. Ensuring Building Integrity

Inspection for commercial building and roof fire damage recovery

Before reopening your commercial building to employees and visitors, you must ensure their safety by completing the following:

Structural Assessment

Before any repairs begin, a structural engineer should inspect the building to ensure it is safe for occupancy. The engineer will:

  • Evaluate the Stability: Assess the overall stability of the building and determine if any sections are a collapse risk.
  • Check Load-Bearing Walls and Beams: Ensure these components are intact and secure.
  • Roof Inspection: Inspect the roof for signs of damage, such as warping, sagging, or holes caused by the fire.

Making the Roof Safe

Commercial roof fire damage

A critical part of the post-fire inspection is assessing the roof’s condition. Even if the fire didn’t appear to reach the roof, it might still be compromised by:

  • Heat Damage: Intense heat can warp roofing materials and weaken the structure.
  • Water Damage: Water from firefighting efforts can seep into the roof, leading to potential water damage or mold.
  • Debris: Debris from the fire, such as charred materials, could be resting on the roof, adding weight and causing further damage.

Repairs or replacement may be necessary. It’s crucial to address roof damage quickly to prevent leaks, structural failure, or other problems that could arise.

5. Post-Fire Resources

After a fire, several key organizations and service providers need to be contacted to help restore your building and resume operations.

Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the fire. They will:

  • Assign an adjuster to assess the damage.
  • Guide you through the claims process.
  • Provide coverage for fire, water, and smoke damage per your policy.

Watch this video for more information about insurance policies and deductibles.

Property Management

If you rent or lease your commercial space, notify your property management company. They can:

  • Coordinate with your insurance and restoration teams.
  • Provide guidance on your responsibilities versus the landlord’s for repairs and restoration.

Power Company

Contact your utility provider to:

  • Have the electricity turned off if it wasn’t already done by emergency responders.
  • Ensure that power is safely restored once repairs are complete.

Water Company

If your building suffered water damage, contact the water company to:

  • Address any potential issues with water lines or flooding.
  • Ensure that water service is safe to resume.

Gas Company

If your building uses natural gas, it’s crucial to contact the gas company to:

  • Ensure that the gas supply is safely shut off.
  • Conduct an inspection of the gas lines before turning the service back on.

Fire Restoration Services

Restoration services commercial building and roof fire damage

A professional fire restoration service can handle the entire cleanup and restoration process. These providers will work with your insurance company and can often provide comprehensive services, including:

  • Smoke and soot removal.
  • Water extraction and drying.
  • Structural repairs.
  • Roof inspection and repairs.

Local Government or Building Inspector

In some cases, local authorities or a building inspector may need to certify the commercial building is safe to occupy again. They will:

  • Conduct a final inspection after repairs.
  • Issue any necessary permits or certifications for reopening.

Commercial Building and Roof Fire Damage

In this article, you discovered crucial information and guidance on surviving a commercial building fire and how to get repairs done quickly.

Recognizing the extreme dangers of a commercial building fire will help you save occupant lives and get your business operational after a prompt cleanup and restoration.

Failure to take immediate action during a commercial building fire can result in excessive structural damage, severe revenue loss, indefinite business closure, and death.

Sources:
osha.gov/etools/evacuation-plans-procedures/eap/elements/floorplan-demo
fairfaxcounty.gov/fire-ems/building-evacuation-safety
smallbusinesscoach.org/essential-steps-for-successful-commercial-damage-restoration/
obpeace.org/index-3090.html

  New Image Roofing Atlanta
 

    2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
    Atlanta, GA 30318
    (404) 680-0041
 
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