The Cost of Ignoring Leaks: Water Always Wins
It started with a slow drip.
A local business noticed their second-floor water fountain was leaking. But instead of investigating further or calling for a repair, they did what many people do: they grabbed a pan and placed it on the first floor to catch the water.
Problem solved? Unfortunately not.
Over the weekend, that small leak turned into a major issue. And by Monday morning, what could have been a $1,000 fix ballooned into more than $50,000 in damages.
“You’d be surprised at how many people just put a pan underneath to catch it, including roof leaks,” says Jeff Jarrett, Building Services Director at O’Shea Builders.
“But we have a common saying: water always wins!”
Why Small Leaks Can Become Big Problems
Spring showers might bring flowers … but they also bring lots of water. Commercial buildings are especially vulnerable this time of year, from roof leaks to drainage issues.
“A roof leak might seem minor at first,” Jeff explains. “But over time, that slow drip can rot plywood, destroy soffits and damage structural components. Suddenly, you're not just fixing a leak; you’re rebuilding part of your roof.”
Another common oversight? Leaking cooling lines.
“People think that if they collect the water in a pan, it will just evaporate,” says Jeff. “But that leak weakens the line and causes much more damage.”
Don’t Let Water Win
Catching a leak early is almost always cheaper and easier than dealing with the aftermath!
Putting a pan under the leak is only a band-aid (at best).
Instead of reacting to water damage, O’Shea recommends proactive maintenance:
· If something seems off, don’t wait. Get it checked.
· Regular inspections of your building’s plumbing, roofing, and cooling systems can save you tens of thousands of dollars—and a major headache.
Got a leak? Don’t let water win! Call the O’Shea Building Services team ASAP before the damage spreads.