Essential Steps to Protect Commercial Properties From Storm Surge & Flooding

Storm surge and flooding can cause devastating damage to commercial properties, putting your operations, assets, and bottom line at risk. In Shreveport, businesses like yours face seasonal storms that bring heavy rain, flash flooding, and strong winds, creating conditions that leave even well-built properties vulnerable. 

Protecting your building is not just about reacting after a disaster. It is about taking proactive steps now to minimize damage and downtime when severe weather strikes. With the right storm restoration company by your side, you can safeguard your property, keep employees safe, and reduce the long-term impact of water damage.

Specific Risks Shreveport Faces

Shreveport’s location makes it particularly susceptible to the effects of local hydrology, including storm damage from both heavy rainfall and flooding. Commercial properties in low-lying areas are at risk of water pooling quickly, overwhelming drainage systems, and seeping into basements, storage areas, and ground-level offices. Even properties built on higher ground can experience roof leaks, gutter backups, and water intrusion through doors and windows during severe storms.

In addition to heavy rainfall, strong winds often accompany local storm systems, which can damage roofing materials, knock down signage, or push debris against building exteriors. For businesses located near rivers, lakes, or large drainage channels, storm surge can create sudden, severe flooding that’s difficult to predict or control. 

Being open about these risks is the first step in building a proactive strategy to protect your property. By identifying weak points and preparing for the types of damage most common in Shreveport, you can significantly reduce potential losses.

Step-by-Step Storm Protection Checklist

Protecting your commercial property starts with proactive planning and consistent preparation. By addressing vulnerabilities ahead of time, you can minimize storm damage and return to normal operations more quickly after severe weather. Use this checklist to guide your efforts:

Evaluate Your Property’s Risk

Begin with a full site assessment. Identify areas where water could collect, such as basements, loading docks, or parking lots. Pay attention to nearby water sources and low-lying ground that may increase flooding potential. Document past issues with drainage or leaks to guide your prevention strategy.

Secure Outdoor Items

Loose signage, patio furniture, and equipment stored outside can become dangerous projectiles in strong winds. Secure or relocate anything that might be carried by storm gusts. This step not only protects your property but also reduces liability from flying debris that could damage nearby buildings.

Inspect Roofs, Gutters &Drains

Your roof and drainage systems are the first line of defense against heavy rainfall. Have gutters cleared, downspouts extended, and drains inspected to ensure water is directed away from the building. Regular roof inspections can reveal vulnerabilities such as loose shingles, deteriorating seals, or clogged scuppers.

Waterproof Entry Points

Doors, windows, and vents are common sources of water intrusion. Install weather-resistant seals and consider sandbags or temporary barriers for ground-level openings. Caulking around windows and reinforcing door thresholds can significantly reduce the risk of flooding inside.

Improve Onsite Drainage

Work with professionals to confirm that your property’s grading moves water away from structures. Installing sump pumps or backflow valves can also prevent backups from overwhelming your building’s systems during severe storms.

Protect Interior Assets

Move important equipment, files, and electronics to higher floors or elevated shelving. If relocation is not possible, cover them with waterproof materials. Establish protocols for securing computers and servers that are critical to your business continuity.

Develop & Practice an Emergency Plan

Ensure employees know evacuation routes, safety protocols, and communication procedures. Run drills regularly so staff members can respond quickly when storms approach. Include details about who to contact for professional commercial storm restoration services if flooding occurs.

By addressing these steps before severe weather strikes, you reduce both the physical damage to your building and the financial impact on your operations. A proactive approach ensures your business can weather the storm with confidence.

Top Considerations for Your Industry

Every business faces unique challenges when preparing for storm surge and flooding. For hospitality properties, guest safety is the highest priority, which means having evacuation plans, backup power, and clear communication systems in place. 

Healthcare facilities must focus on protecting critical equipment and ensuring continuity of care, making redundant systems and water-tight storage areas essential.

For industrial operations, storm preparation often involves safeguarding large machinery and raw materials that cannot be easily moved. Proper elevation, waterproof coverings, and quick-drain floor systems can reduce potential losses. 

Retail businesses should protect merchandise by elevating inventory, reinforcing storefront windows, and maintaining insurance records.

Putman Restoration Helps Support Your Planning & Response

Even with strong preparation, severe storms can overwhelm the best defenses. That is when partnering with a trusted storm restoration company makes all the difference. We provide 24/7 response for commercial storm restoration in Shreveport and the surrounding communities. 

Our team is trained and certified through leading organizations, including IICRC, and has the expertise to handle water extraction, drying, and structural restoration at scale. We also offer emergency board-up and containment services to stop further damage after a storm. Our advanced drying systems and moisture detection equipment allow us to stabilize buildings quickly, protecting both structures and contents. 

Because we specialize in large commercial properties, we understand the urgency of getting your business back up and running. Whether you are dealing with storm surge flooding, roof leaks, or interior water damage, our professionals bring the knowledge and technology needed to restore your property and reduce downtime.

Protect Your Business Before the Storm Hits

Storm surge and flooding can strike without warning, but with the right preparation, you can safeguard your commercial property against severe damage. By assessing risks, creating a protection plan, and working with experts, you reduce disruption and protect your bottom line.

Commercial Storm Restoration in Shreveport, Louisiana

At Putman Restoration, we can help you plan ahead and recover fast when storms impact your business. Give us a call at 318-453-5029, or reach out online to schedule your consultation or service.