Hail Damage
BlueTeam
Hail Damage
Unlike other natural disasters, hailstorms often strike with little warning, catching commercial property owners off guard and leaving them to deal with the aftermath. The consequences of hail damage to commercial properties can be far-reaching, impacting the structural integrity of buildings and the livelihoods of those who depend on them.
When hailstones fall, the sheer force of impact can puncture roofing materials, shatter glass, and chip away at exterior surfaces. Infiltrating through compromised areas, water can also seep into the building envelope, causing further damage to interiors and jeopardizing the safety of occupants.
At BlueTeam, we provide restoration, reconstruction, and roofing services specifically designed to mitigate the impact of hail damage on your commercial property. From patching up roofs to rebuilding damaged areas, we have the expertise and resources to restore the building to its pre-loss condition.
Types of Hailstorms and Their Speeds
In smaller hailstorms with diameters under 1 inch, hail falls at speeds going from 9 to 25 mph. For more severe thunderstorms producing hail between 1 and 1.75 inches, speeds increase to between 25 and 40 mph.
Within the strongest supercells generating hail up to 4 inches in diameter, speeds range from 44 to 72 mph, whereas hailstones exceeding 4 inches may fall at speeds surpassing 100 mph.
Nonetheless, many specialists have trouble estimating the exact speeds because of other determining factors, including hailstone shape, melting degree, fall orientation, and environmental conditions.
Consequences of Hail Damage to Commercial Properties
Roof Damage
The roof is often the most vulnerable part of a commercial building during a hailstorm. Hailstones ranging in size from small pellets to large chunks of ice can result in:
- Dents, cracks, punctures, and granule loss in asphalt shingles
- Fractures in clay or concrete tiles
- Dents or perforations in metal roofing panels
As time passes, these compromised areas lead to leaks and allow water to seep into the commercial building’s interior. Even minor damage can escalate into more extensive issues if left unaddressed, requiring timely repairs or replacement to prevent further structural deterioration and water damage.
Exterior Surfaces
Siding, stucco, and brickwork serve as the protective shell of commercial buildings, shielding them from external elements. However, hailstorms can wreak havoc on these exterior surfaces, causing visible damage such as chips, cracks, and fractures.
The force of hail impacts can also dislodge or break siding panels, compromise stucco finishes, and chip away at brick mortar joints.
The combined damage compromises the aesthetic appeal of the building and weakens its protective barrier against moisture infiltration. As a result, water penetrates through compromised areas, leading to moisture-related issues such as mold growth, rot, and structural instability.
Windows and Doors
Glass windows and doors are particularly susceptible to hail damage due to their fragile nature. Hailstones can strike windows and doors with enough force to shatter or crack the glass, weakening their strength and safety.
Additionally, damaged seals and frames can result in air leakage, which reduces energy efficiency and increases heating and cooling costs.
HVAC Systems
Commercial buildings often house HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems on rooftops or exterior areas. These units are exposed to the elements, making them vulnerable to hail damage during severe storms.
Hailstones can dent or puncture the metal housing of HVAC units, damage fins and coils, and impair the operation of fans and compressors. These issues affect the system’s efficiency, cause poor indoor air quality, and increase energy consumption.
Ceilings and Interiors
When hail damages the roof, water infiltrates the premises and leaks penetrate ceilings and interior spaces. Water stains, peeling paint, and sagging ceiling tiles are common signs of water damage caused by hail-induced leaks.
Moreover, prolonged exposure to moisture can promote mold growth, compromise structural integrity, and pose health risks to occupants.
Floors and Foundations
While less commonly discussed, hailstorms can also impact the ground surrounding commercial properties, affecting pavement, sidewalks, and foundations. Large hailstones can cause dents, cracks, or pitting in concrete surfaces.
Erosion of soil and landscaping features due to hail impact and runoff can undermine the stability of foundations and pose safety hazards.
How Do We Address Hail Damage?
Roof Restoration
Our roof restoration service begins with a thorough inspection to assess the extent of the hail damage. We identify areas of concern, including punctures, cracks, and missing shingles, and develop a tailored plan for repair and restoration.
Depending on the severity of the damage, our skilled technicians may perform repairs such as patching, sealing, or replacing damaged roofing materials. We always use high-quality materials to ensure the longevity and durability of the restored roof.
Our goal is to restore your roof to its pre-damage condition, providing a reliable and watertight barrier against the elements.
In addition to permanent repair solutions, we also offer temporary roofing options to protect your property while permanent repairs are underway. Our temporary roofing solutions provide immediate protection against further damage from the elements, allowing you to maintain operations and minimize disruptions during the restoration process.
Water Damage Restoration
Upon assessing the extent of water damage, our team utilizes advanced equipment and techniques to extract excess water, dry affected areas, and restore damaged materials. We pay close attention to hidden moisture pockets to prevent mold growth and ensure thorough drying.
Our aim is to restore the affected areas to a clean, dry, and safe condition, minimizing further damage and health risks.
Mold Remediation
BlueTeam’s mold remediation service is designed to eradicate mold colonies after water damage and restore the safety and cleanliness of your commercial property.
Upon identifying mold growth through thorough inspection and testing, our certified mold remediation specialists develop a customized remediation plan. Afterward, they safely contain the affected areas to prevent the spread of mold spores to uncontaminated areas.
Our remediation process involves the removal and disposal of mold-infested materials, including drywall, insulation, and carpeting, as necessary. We then employ specialized cleaning solutions and techniques to eliminate mold spores from surfaces and restore air quality within the building.
Throughout the remediation process, we prioritize the health and safety of occupants and workers, implementing stringent containment measures and utilizing personal protective equipment.
After completing the remediation process, we conduct thorough post-remediation testing to verify the effectiveness of our remediation efforts and ensure the property meets industry standards for mold-free conditions.
Reconstruction
In cases of severe hail damage, reconstruction may be necessary to restore the structural integrity and functionality of your commercial properties. Our reconstruction service encompasses a wide range of tasks:
- Exterior Wall Reconstruction: BlueTeam experts are equipped to rebuild damaged exterior walls, whether it involves repairing siding, stucco, brickwork, or other materials. We pay close attention to detail to ensure seamless integration with the existing structure, maintaining the visual appeal of your property while reinforcing its strength and resilience.
- Window and Door Replacement: Our reconstruction service includes the removal and replacement of damaged windows and doors with high-quality, impact-resistant alternatives. We ensure proper installation to minimize air leakage and enhance energy efficiency.
- Interior Reconstruction: We can repair damaged ceilings, walls, flooring, or electrical systems to restore the interior of your property and create a safe and functional environment for occupants.
- Foundation Repair and Reinforcement: At BlueTeam, we carry out foundation repair and reinforcement to address issues such as cracks, settlement, or shifting. We employ advanced techniques and materials to stabilize the foundation and prevent further damage.
Emergency Restoration Services
Hailstorms can cause sudden and significant damage to commercial properties, requiring immediate attention to prevent further deterioration. Our emergency restoration services are available 24/7 to respond swiftly to your needs.
Be it tarping damaged roofs, boarding up broken windows, or extracting water from flooded areas, our team is equipped to handle emergencies promptly. By taking swift action, we help minimize the impact of hail damage and protect your commercial property from additional harm.
BlueTeam App Access
Gain control and insight into your hail damage restoration projects with our innovative BlueTeam App. This proprietary software empowers portfolio owners and operators with 24/7 access to all project information.
Through the app, your executive team can effortlessly monitor project progress and stay informed about current costs in real-time. With instant access to critical data and updates at your fingertips, you can make informed decisions and effectively manage your commercial property’s recovery from hail damage.
Need Help with Hail Damage in Your Commercial Properties?
Ready to address hail damage or other natural disaster-related issues affecting your commercial property? Contact BlueTeam for expert assistance and peace of mind.
Our team is standing by to provide prompt and professional restoration, reconstruction, and roofing services tailored to your needs. Call us now or download our BlueTeam App to get started.