Businesses near the Puget Sound in Tacoma, WA, face a unique threat: King Tides. These exceptionally high tides, that occur several times a year, can cause significant water damage to commercial properties along the shoreline. For business owners in this region, water damage prevention is critical. By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps, you can protect your property, inventory, and bottom line from costly repairs. Here’s a comprehensive guide on preparing your business for King Tides and safeguarding it from the potential impacts.
Understanding King Tides & Their Impact on Tacoma Properties
What are King Tides? King Tides are unusually high tides that happen several times a year along the Pacific Northwest coast. Typically occurring in the winter months of November and December, these tides reach their peak due to gravitational alignment and seasonal factors, often leading to localized flooding in low-lying coastal areas.
The Risk to Businesses Along Puget Sound. Commercial properties located near the Puget Sound are particularly vulnerable to the effects of King Tides. Buildings situated on slopes, with poor drainage or outdated infrastructure, face even greater risks. For properties close to the shoreline, these tides can bring water levels that breach entry points, flood parking lots, and even seep into basements and storage areas, resulting in structural damage, ruined inventory, and a potentially unsafe environment for employees and customers.
The Importance of a Water Damage Prevention Plan for Businesses
Having a water damage prevention plan in place is essential for businesses facing the risks of King Tides. Without a plan, properties could sustain significant damage, including compromised structural integrity, mold growth, and the loss of critical inventory or equipment. By implementing preventive measures, you reduce the risk of disruptions to business operations and avoid the costly repairs that can follow severe water damage.
DIY Measures for Protecting Your Commercial Property from Water Damage. While professional assistance is essential for severe situations, there are several steps you can take to protect your property from King Tides:
- Seal Entry Points. Check doors, windows, and other entry points around your building to ensure they are properly sealed. Even small cracks or gaps can allow water to seep inside during high tides. Use weather-resistant caulk or weatherstripping to seal these areas and reduce the risk of water entering the building.
- Install Flood Barriers. Flood barriers or sandbags are effective for blocking entry points during King Tide events. Placing barriers along doorways, loading docks, and basement windows can prevent water from entering and pooling inside.
- Elevate Electrical Equipment. Electrical systems, outlets, and appliances should be elevated at least 12 inches above the anticipated flood level. By doing so, you reduce the risk of electrical hazards and costly damage. If relocating equipment isn’t feasible, consider using waterproof covers to protect electrical systems in high-risk areas.
- Improve Drainage. Good drainage is vital to keeping water away from your building. Clear gutters, downspouts, and exterior drains of any debris to prevent blockages. Verify that the grading around your property directs water away from the foundation, reducing the risk of pooling and seepage.
- Check and Maintain Sump Pumps. For properties with basements or low-lying areas, sump pumps play a crucial role in removing groundwater during extreme tides. Regularly test your sump pumps to ensure they are operational and consider installing a backup system to protect against power outages during high-water events.
When to Call the Professionals
In some cases, water damage can exceed the capabilities of DIY solutions, especially in large commercial spaces. Here’s when you should consider calling in professionals:
- There are large areas of standing water.
- Flooding affects electrical systems or structural components.
- Mold has started to form due to prolonged exposure to moisture.
- Saltwater intrusion from King Tides has occurred
The Challenges of Water Removal in Large Commercial Spaces
Removing water from expansive commercial spaces is complex and requires special equipment, like industrial-grade pumps, dehumidifiers, and moisture meters. Professional water removal ensures that all moisture is thoroughly extracted, reducing long-term damage and creating a safer environment. Leaving standing water, especially seawater, poses serious risks, including structural weakening, mold growth, and the deterioration of building materials. The salt in seawater speeds up corrosion, which can lead to the breakdown of walls, floors, and support structures. Addressing standing water immediately is essential to preserve the integrity of your property.
Why ServiceMaster of Tacoma is Your Trusted Partner in Water Damage Prevention and Repair
- Expertise in Commercial Water Damage Restoration. ServiceMaster of Tacoma has years of experience in water damage restoration, especially in challenging environments along the Puget Sound. Their team understands the risks posed by King Tides and has the expertise needed to address damage in commercial settings.
- Comprehensive Solutions. ServiceMaster of Tacoma offers a wide range of services tailored to commercial properties, including emergency water extraction, structural drying, and mold remediation. Their expertise ensures that your business is fully protected and restored, minimizing downtime and preventing further issues.
- Advanced Tools and Techniques. Utilizing industrial-strength dehumidifiers, moisture-detection technology, and state-of-the-art drying tools, ServiceMaster of Tacoma provides lasting protection against future water damage.
Contact ServiceMaster of Tacoma today to discuss your water damage prevention plan or schedule a consultation. Don’t wait until the next King Tide—protect your property and secure peace of mind now.
