For many business owners, the properties they own and operate out of are often just as important as the products and services they sell. Commercial properties should also serve to protect those inside from the elements and any natural disasters that may arise. When these instances occur, they can take a toll on buildings. Exposed siding, for example, can be particularly damaging to these commercial properties.
Common Types Of Commercial Siding
Commercial buildings can be made up of many different types of materials. Vinyl and fiber cement are two of the most common types of commercial siding materials. However, wood, brick, and aluminum are often used as alternative siding material as well. While there are many types of commercial siding available, there are different issues that can arise with each that the property owner should be aware of.
Vinyl siding, for example, will not necessarily need maintenance for an extended period of time. However, when that time elapses, vinyl siding can experience warping, buckling, fading, moisture retention, and cracking. Changes in temperature, improper installation, and the age of the siding can contribute to these types of damages.
If wood siding is not properly maintained and is insufficiently durable, a building can become susceptible to water damage, as wood is a porous material. Even small amounts of water in wood siding can cause warping and swelling to occur. Over time, the wood will likely rot from water exposure if not properly sealed and maintained.
Fiber cement and brick siding, while more expensive due to the installation and labor involved, are better options for commercial properties due to their ability to withstand high humidity and major weather changes.
Because siding plays a major role in keeping what’s outside from entering the property, it’s crucial to quickly diagnose and repair any issues. If not, the damage can lead to far more severe property damage and wind up costing business owners much more than anticipated. Understanding why exposed siding on a commercial property can be particularly damaging is important.
The Problem With Exposed Siding
When siding is damaged on a commercial property, an abundance of issues can occur. For instance, when siding is exposed it increases the potential for water damage by giving the water access points into the property. This can result in rotting out the materials underneath the siding as the water makes its way into the building.
Exposed siding can also provide a nesting area for insects. If siding remains exposed for an extended period of time, business owners can expect both water damage and pest infestation. Siding damage also makes the building’s exterior unpleasant to look at. It is important to take the overall appearance of the building into consideration to ensure potential customers and clients aren’t deterred by the overall look of the property.
Commercial Property Damage
Damage to a commercial property can be caused by a multitude of things. Storms, flooding, fires, or other natural disasters all pose a threat to businesses. Commercial properties and businesses are ultimately investments; and, when damage to buildings occurs, it can hurt not only the return on investment but also the livelihood of the business owner.
Policyholders hope when a storm or natural disaster damages their property that their insurer will work with them to pay out any legitimate claims fairly in a timely manner. Unfortunately, this doesn’t always happen and insurance companies often significantly underestimate the extent of any losses and/or misrepresent the cause of the loss altogether.
Though insurance adjusters may claim to be neutral and to be providing unbiased damage assessments, in reality, many adjusters earn a good portion of their income from insurance companies themselves. This ultimately creates a built-in bias toward denying or undervaluing property damage claims.
Houston Commercial Property Damage Attorneys
When commercial property damage occurs and the insurer isn’t willing to provide the necessary coverage, it can be incredibly devastating to a business’ future. At Raizner Slania LLP, we have successfully handled thousands of commercial property disputes; and, we will fight to ensure your claim is paid as promised by your policy. We have helped many different clients across Texas and throughout the country whose commercial properties were damaged by natural disasters and more. Contact us today to discuss your situation in a free consultation.
