Birds are the cause of damage worth millions of pounds every year. Just one bird, by building just one nest, can leave a business picking up a hefty bill from a fire or a flood. It is important to understand the risks involved. So here are 8 ways birds can damage properties and goods stored in them.
Damage from bird droppings
Bird droppings contain uric acid. So, they are not just unsightly. They can dissolve the material your building is made from. Stone, paint and metal can all be damaged by bird guano in this way. The result is not just unsightly stains. The damage caused can result in water leaks causing flooding or damp to spread.
For historical buildings, bird dropping damage is a serious issue. The fabric if the property fabric is often protected by law, and is appreciated for its aesthetic appearance. Even more modern buildings are under threat. For instance, the life of a warehouse roof may be shortened by years by the constant effect of bird droppings be left on it.
Damage to service machinery
Modern buildings have sophisticated service equipment, not least air conditioning units. These can be seriously damaged by the acidic attack of bird droppings. Such machinery and associated electrical equipment need regular maintenance. It is not uncommon for maintenance technicians to refuse to carry out the work if machinery is covered in bird droppings which are smelly and potentially harmful to health.
Damage to vehicles
There is increased integration of car parking into modern inner city office space, through ground level or underground parking. If birds like pigeons learn to roost in these buildings, they can cause thousands of pounds in damage to vehicles, as acidic guano is splashed on to cars, dissolving paintwork.
Damage to stored goods
If there is a way into a building, birds will find out. Food manufacturers need sophisticated systems for ensuring birds do not get into production areas. If they do, they can cause expensive losses, as contaminated food stuffs have to be disposed of. Any products kept in warehouses are susceptible to similar damage. It is common for companies or households to put valuable items into long-term storage, then to return months later to find them badly damaged because birds have got into the storage space.
Damage from bird nests
Pest birds such as pigeon and starlings, often next on buildings, building their nests in guttering, on the tops of downpipes and under eaves. This can result in the drainage system becoming blocked. Water can then overflow into roof spaces, or down the side of the building. The result can be extensive damage, which may not be spotted until the effect is catastrophic. It may also result in weakening of structures which make them dangerous for maintenance personnel.
Blocking of ventilation systems
Birds will build their nests anywhere that is secluded and sheltered, and that includes ventilation chimneys and ducting. This can result in fumes from heating systems not being dispersed effectively, causing the risk of illness or, in extreme cases, fatalities, where there is a build-up of carbon monoxide and other gases in a property.
Fires caused by bird nests
Nesting material is usually highly flammable and is a regular cause of fires in buildings. This may be because of irresponsible disposal of smoking material by people who work in the building or maintenance staff. Or it could be because the nests have been built by birds close to electrical equipment, including signs and security lights.
It does not pay to ignore these very serious issues. In fact, it could very easily save money in the long-term to guard against them. Call SUPERPROOF today to find out how the latest bird proofing and bird deterrent techniques can protect you against pest birds.
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