Floodwaters Bring Devastating Consequences for Commercial Properties
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| Commercial-Properties |
This spring, the greater Houston area and its neighboring cities have experienced unprecedented rainfall and historic flooding, which has caused extensive damage to commercial properties throughout the region. While the floodwaters will naturally recede over time, their impact on property health can be both significant and costly. Beyond the expenses of repairs and renovations, the lasting effects on the environment and landscape can pose serious challenges. In today’s post, we’ll explore how floodwaters affect property health and why owners with flooded land should approach the situation with urgency.
THREAT TO PLANT LIFE
Prolonged exposure to standing floodwater can severely harm trees, plants, and grass by depriving them of oxygen and sunlight essential for their growth. Tree foliage submerged underwater loses its ability to photosynthesize and will begin to die off. Additionally, fast-moving floodwaters often carry debris and driftwood that can strip tree bark, weakening their structure. Grass faces an even higher risk when stagnant, warm floodwaters linger during its growing season rather than dormancy. The damage intensifies when properties endure repeated flooding within a single season, a recurring issue in much of Texas.
SOIL CONTAMINATION
Another major consequence of heavy flooding is soil contamination. Floodwaters often carry harmful pollutants, chemicals, or sewage, leaving behind unhealthy soil that compromises long-term property health. This contaminated soil can limit plants and trees from accessing necessary nutrients and minerals, potentially stunting their recovery or growth entirely. In severe cases, property owners might need to replace the topsoil altogether to restore soil quality and give vegetation a chance to recover from flood-induced damage.
BREEDING GROUND FOR DISEASES AND PESTS
Stagnant floodwaters create an ideal environment for diseases, insects, and pests to thrive. Bacteria and fungi flourish in these conditions, posing a threat to already weakened trees, plants, and lawns. Tree diseases can quickly spread under these circumstances, further depleting their limited energy reserves. Additionally, pests like insects and vermin can attack vegetation or infest nearby structures, leading to secondary damage to commercial properties. These ripple effects can escalate problems for property owners and increase restoration costs if left unaddressed.
For property owners dealing with flood damage or prolonged stagnation of water on their land, consulting a Certified Arborist or Landscape Professional can be critical in assessing the stability and health of trees and soil after the waters subside. LMC offers complimentary consultations for commercial property owners to evaluate tree health, soil conditions, potential diseases, or insect issues requiring immediate attention. Their skilled team provides a comprehensive range of tree care and landscape services, including Tree Structure Evaluation, Pruning, Removal, Planting, Soil Analysis, Deep Root Fertilization, Drainage Solutions, as well as Cabling and Bracing for compromised trees. Reach out to LMC today at 713-688-2435 or visit their website to request your free consultation.
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