Protecting Your Commercial Property During Storms

As a business owner, your commercial property is one of your most valuable assets. When storm season starts in the Midwest, protecting that asset from potential damage should be a top priority. From thunderstorms to tornadoes, high winds to torrential rains, extreme weather can really take a toll on buildings if the proper precautions aren't taken.

But here’s some good news! There are simple steps you can take to prevent costly storm damage before it ever happens. Here’s a hint - a little proactive maintenance and forward planning go a long way.

Before the Storm

Don't wait until storm clouds are looming to start prepping your property. Routine inspections and upkeep are key to identifying vulnerabilities early.

Have an Emergency Game Plan

When severe weather strikes, staff safety should be the number one priority. Develop a clear emergency plan designating sheltering areas, evacuation routes, and communication protocols so everyone knows exactly what to do. Consider running practice drills at least once or twice a year to help reinforce preparedness.

Make sure that all of this information is clearly posted throughout the property so anyone inside the building knows what to do should severe weather occur.

Start at the Top

Your roof is essentially your building's umbrella against the elements. Inspecting your property’s roof regularly can help identify any issues, big or small, to make sure it is in the best shape possible year-round.

Bring in a qualified inspector twice every year to check for any missing, cracked, or worn shingles and make repairs with top-quality materials. Staying on top of roof maintenance prevents leaks and major damage down the line.

Check the Foundation and Siding

A solid foundation and intact exterior siding help maintain your building's structural integrity during high winds and heavy rains.

Have these areas professionally evaluated regularly to catch any issues before they escalate. If repairs are needed, partner with a company experienced in foundation stabilization, siding replacement, and waterproofing to make sure your property can withstand even the strongest Midwest storm.

Batten Down the Hatches

Loose outdoor fixtures like signs and overhanging trees pose major hazards when winds pick up, creating dangerous projectiles. Secure signage, trim up those branches and clear any loose debris before storms hit to minimize risks.

You also need to make sure the rest of your property is secure. When you know a severe storm is coming, board up the windows and reinforce doors to help reduce potential damage.

Build It Strong from the Start

To help your property withstand the test of time and severe weather, you should construct it strong right from the beginning. Partnering with an experienced contractor who can guide you to the right high-quality materials and navigate local building codes and regulations goes a long way to protecting your property for the long haul.

Meeting Code Compliance

When it comes to storm-proofing your commercial building, adhering to the latest codes and requirements should be priority number one. That’s why it’s so important to have your property thoroughly evaluated by a certified professional. They'll be able to identify any areas that may not meet the most current code standards for wind resistance, precipitation protection, and more.

Common culprits include windows and doors that aren't rated for certain wind pressures or lack of impact-rated siding materials like high-wind rated vinyl, fiber cement, or brick veneer. If upgrades are recommended, taking that step provides peace of mind that your operations are fully code-compliant and as storm-proof as possible.

Investing in Lasting Protection

Any time roof work, expansions, or other major renovations are happening, it’s the perfect opportunity to build next-level storm resilience from the ground up. Your contractor can guide you toward those impact-resistant roofing materials, reinforced fixtures, and other heavy-duty components engineered specifically to protect your property from whatever Midwest storms throw your way.

The initial investment may be higher than basic materials, but you're creating a property that will withstand windborne debris, heavy snow loads, water intrusion, and any other storm threats year after year. You're also avoiding costly repairs and replacements down the road when subpar materials get damaged or deteriorate prematurely.

Weathering Any Storm with Confidence

A building's resilience – its ability to remain secure and operational after severe weather strikes – can make or break a business. Start prioritizing durability and prep right from the planning phases, and you're setting yourself up for maximum long-term resilience and protecting that all-important bottom line.