Springtime is here and Strata's need to Prepare
As spring finally arrives, it's time to welcome warmer temperatures, blooming flowers, and fresh green foliage. However, the change in season also brings increased rain showers and the potential for water damage in strata buildings.
In this article, we provide essential tips to help property owners and strata managers prevent water damage in their buildings, ensuring that your property stays in top condition throughout the season.
Clean and Inspect Gutters and Downpipes
Clogged gutters and downpipes can cause water to overflow and damage your building's foundation and walls. Ensure that all gutters and downpipes are free of debris, such as leaves and branches, to facilitate proper water drainage. Schedule regular inspections and cleaning to maintain the effectiveness of these systems throughout the spring season.
Check and Repair Roofing
The roof of your strata building is the primary barrier against water damage. Inspect your roof for any damaged, missing, or loose shingles, as well as signs of leaks, mold, or mildew. Make necessary repairs to prevent water from entering your building and causing significant damage.
Inspect Exterior Hose Bibs Before Power Washing
Winter freezing can cause cracks in exterior hose bibs, which may lead to water leaks when connecting hoses for power washing the common grounds and exterior of your strata building. Before undertaking any spring cleaning tasks that involve water, such as power washing, make sure to inspect all hose bibs for cracks or damage. Replace or repair any damaged hose bibs to prevent water damage inside the units or common areas of the building structure.
By incorporating this additional step into your spring maintenance routine, you can further safeguard your strata building against potential water damage. Regular inspections and preventive measures, such as checking exterior hose bibs, are crucial for preserving the integrity and value of your property as you welcome the warmer months.
Seal Cracks and Gaps in Building Envelope
Water can seep into your building through cracks and gaps in the walls, windows, and doors. Inspect the building envelope including underground parkades for any openings, and use appropriate sealants or weatherstripping to close them. This simple step can prevent water intrusion and protect your building from potential water damage.
Maintain Landscaping and Drainage
Proper landscaping and drainage around your strata building can help prevent water from pooling and seeping into the foundation. Ensure that the soil slopes away from the building, and consider installing a French drain system to divert water away from the property. Additionally, maintain plants and trees to prevent root intrusion into pipes and foundations.
Regularly Inspect Plumbing Systems
Plumbing systems are a common source of water damage in strata buildings. Schedule regular plumbing inspections to identify any leaks, corrosion, or other issues that may lead to water damage. Repair any identified issues promptly to prevent further damage.
Install Water Leak Detection Systems
Incorporating water leak detection systems in your strata building is an effective way to identify water issues early on. These systems can monitor water flow and alert you to any abnormal increases, enabling you to address potential leaks before they cause significant damage.
Don't Wait until After The Damage Happens
Don't wait for water damage to become an expensive problem this spring. Strata councils and strata managers can take proactive steps to protect their buildings by calling in the experts at IRPRO. Our team is ready to conduct pre-inspections and help you identify any potential issues before they escalate.
Get in touch with IRPRO today by calling 604-316-7075 or visiting our website at HERE. Let us help you keep your strata building in top condition and minimize the risk of costly water damage this spring.
