Do you have to deal with water damage on the regular? Study its underlying causes and learn how to prevent the problem from occurring.
Every year, water damage costs homeowners thousands of dollars in repairs. According to a survey involving homeowners, around 40% of the respondents said they’ve suffered losses due to water damage at some point in their lives. If you are in a similar situation, seeking a permanent solution should be your top most concern. Understanding the common causes of water damage should help you prevent any future moisture issues. Here is a compilation of the common causes of water damage and some effective tips to prevent the issue in the future:
Natural calamities
Let’s begin with the most difficult scenario. Natural disasters like hurricanes, snowstorms, and broken dams can easily cause your home to flood. Just because the force can be disastrous doesn’t mean you can’t do anything about it. We recommend taking the following steps when flooding is predicted:
- Install a warning system such as a flood alarm
- Purchase additional flood insurance
- Raise your house on stilts to prepare it for flooding
- Install sump pumps or foundation vents
- Grade your lawn away from the home
- When leaving home for an extended period, shut off the water main. This way, you won’t have experience unpleasant surprises upon returning.
Clogged Roof Gutters
During rainfall, functioning roof gutters prove to be a lifesaver, directing rainwater away from your home. Without proper maintenance, however, gutters tend to become clogged due to leaves, seed pods, twigs, and other debris collecting in them over time. When this happens, rainwater or melted water from snow overflows the gutters and gradually seeps into the property through damaged foundation, damaged siding, and roof leaks.
You can avoid such clogs by ensuring periodic cleaning. Clearing the gutters twice a year should be enough to keep them in functioning order.
Leaking or Broken Pipes
Pipe leaks can be more damaging over time than most of us think. A lot of drain and plumbing damage, for instance, remains hidden in low-traffic areas of homes or within the walls. Sometimes, freezing temperatures or a change in water pressure causes the pipe to burst, which can cause some serious moisture damage. Detecting signs of leaks early on helps prevent more costly damages down the line. Water stains, rings, sounds of dripping water are all indications that you need to call your plumber for inspection.
Appliances Failure
Finally, malfunctioning appliances are often subject to leaks. Dishwashers, refrigerators, washing machines, and HVAC units are some of the most common culprits. A dishwasher leak can cause water damage to cabinetry and pave the way for mold growth or warped wood. Refrigerators are often have a leaking defrost pan or a clogged pipe. Unmaintained HVAC systems and washing machines can wear out over time and begin leaking. The best course of action is to conduct preventive maintenance. Yet, if you notice any such issues, contact a professional immediately.
Conclusion
Now that you are familiar with most common causes of water damage and how to prevent them, stay extra vigilant. If you’re already faced with water damage for any reason, seek professional water damage remediation services at your earliest.
For effective water damage restoration, get in touch with STOP Restoration of Bakersfield today.
