6 Critical Threats to Houston & Dallas Properties
In the Lone Star State, storms can bring devastating consequences for commercial property owners. From the hurricane-prone Gulf Coast near Houston to the tornado alleys surrounding Dallas, Texas businesses face an unmatched variety of severe weather threats. Understanding the types of storm damage that frequently affect commercial properties in Texas can help property owners prepare and protect their valuable assets. At CWF Restoration, we’ve helped countless Texas businesses recover from storm damage, and we’re sharing the six most common types of commercial storm damage specific to our region, along with Texas-proven protection strategies.
1. Roof Damage
High winds, destructive hail, and heavy rainfall can significantly damage commercial roofs across Texas, leading to issues that quickly escalate from minor to catastrophic. Texas experiences some of the most severe hailstorms in the nation, with recent events in the Dallas-Fort Worth area producing baseball-sized hail that caused widespread roof destruction.
Texas-Specific Protection Tips:
- Invest in impact-resistant commercial roofing materials specifically rated for Texas hail conditions
- Schedule bi-annual roof inspections, ideally before hurricane season begins in June and after it ends in November
- Consider TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) roofing for Houston-area properties, which offers excellent resistance to UV exposure and Gulf Coast humidity
- For Dallas-area properties, ensure roof drainage systems can handle the quick, intense rainfall typical of North Texas thunderstorms
- Document your roof condition with photos before storm season to support potential insurance claims
2. Window and Door Damage
Texas storms bring powerful winds that can turn small debris into dangerous projectiles. Commercial buildings in Houston and Dallas with extensive glass facades are particularly vulnerable, as evidenced by recent storms in May 2024 that shattered windows in downtown Houston skyscrapers.
Texas-Specific Protection Tips:
- Install impact-resistant glass designed to withstand hurricane-force winds in Gulf Coast properties
- Consider storm shutters that can be quickly deployed when severe weather threatens
- Reinforce entry doors with additional bracing, particularly important for Dallas-area properties in tornado-prone zones
- Apply security film to existing windows to prevent shattering
- Maintain an emergency board-up plan with pre-cut materials for quick deployment
3. Flooding and Water Damage
Texas leads the nation in flood events, with Houston’s clay soils and low elevation making it particularly susceptible. Rapid urbanization in both Houston and Dallas has increased impermeable surfaces, intensifying flood risks. Even brief but intense Texas thunderstorms can overwhelm commercial drainage systems.
Texas-Specific Protection Tips:
- Install flood barriers or gates for Houston-area properties in known flood zones
- Elevate critical equipment and electrical systems above potential flood levels
- Consider permeable paving options for parking lots and walkways to improve water absorption
- Install backflow preventers to protect against sewer backup during heavy rainfall
- Develop a relationship with a Texas-based restoration company that offers rapid water extraction services
- Review your flood insurance policy annually, as Texas flood zones frequently change
4. Electrical Damage
Texas’s unique power grid faces challenges during extreme weather, as demonstrated during the catastrophic 2021 winter storm. Power surges from lightning strikes are also common during Texas’s summer thunderstorm season, particularly in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.
Texas-Specific Protection Tips:
- Install commercial-grade surge protectors throughout your facility
- Invest in a backup generator system suitable for Texas’s extreme temperature ranges
- Consider wind-resistant options for exterior electrical components in hurricane-prone areas
- Schedule annual electrical system inspections before high-risk weather seasons
- Develop a power outage response plan that accounts for Texas’s extreme summer heat
- Install lightning protection systems, particularly important for taller commercial buildings in Dallas
5. Structural Damage
Texas experiences more high-wind events than most states, with hurricane-force winds along the coast and tornado activity in North Texas. Recent storms in May 2024 brought wind gusts up to 95 mph to the Dallas area and 100 mph to Houston, causing significant structural damage to commercial buildings.
Texas-Specific Protection Tips:
- Reinforce connections between walls and foundations with hurricane straps or clips
- Consider consulting with a structural engineer familiar with Texas building codes to identify vulnerabilities
- For Houston-area properties, follow coastal building codes even if not strictly required for your location
- Secure all HVAC equipment and rooftop structures against high winds
- For Dallas-area properties, identify a reinforced “safe room” for tornado protection
- Regularly inspect building exteriors for developing cracks or weaknesses that storms could exploit
6. Landscaping and Exterior Grounds Damage
Texas’s intense storms can quickly transform manicured commercial landscapes into hazardous debris fields. Flying landscape materials can cause secondary damage to buildings, while fallen trees can block access and damage utilities.
Texas-Specific Protection Tips:
- Select native, drought-resistant Texas plants that have deeper root systems and better storm resistance
- Replace rock mulch with organic materials that won’t become projectiles in high winds
- Regularly prune trees to remove dead limbs, particularly focused on native Texas species like live oaks that can have massive branches
- Install proper drainage solutions designed for Texas’s clay soils and intense rainfall
- Secure outdoor furniture, signage, and equipment with Texas-rated wind anchors
- Consider wind-resistant designs for parking lot lighting and signage
Conclusion: Protecting Your Texas Commercial Property from Storm Damage
Texas weather presents unique challenges for commercial property owners, but with proper preparation and understanding of regional risks, businesses can minimize storm damage and recovery time. From the hurricane threats along the Gulf Coast to the severe thunderstorms and tornadoes of North Texas, each region requires specific protective measures.
According to data from the National Centers for Environmental Information, Texas has experienced 190 billion-dollar weather disasters since 1980—more than any other state. With severe storm events becoming more frequent and intense across Texas, proactive protection has never been more important.
If your commercial property in Houston, Dallas, or anywhere in between suffers storm damage, contact CWF Restoration immediately. Our team is experienced in Texas-specific commercial storm damage restoration, from water extraction to structural repairs, helping businesses across the Lone Star State get back to normal operations quickly and safely. Prepare now, and know that CWF Restoration is here to support your business recovery whenever Texas weather strikes.
At CWF Restoration, we specialize in being a reliable partner for commercial clients during major storm events. We understand that storm-related damage can lead to significant business interruptions, including loss of workspace, revenue, and productivity. That’s why we prioritize rapid response, minimize downtime, and deploy the manpower necessary to restore operations as quickly as possible.
From 1,500 sq. ft. offices to 500,000 sq. ft. facilities, our commercial storm damage restoration solutions are scalable and efficient. We offer transparent pricing and handle direct communication with your insurance provider to ensure a seamless recovery process. When every hour counts, we’re here to get your business back to pre-loss condition—quickly, professionally, and with minimal disruption. – Ryan Majewski
