Wondering how to protect your home from water damage? Read on to find out!
Water damage can be pretty costly to deal with. Water from leaking pipes and appliances can seep through your walls, debilitate the foundation and structure of your house, and even lead to mold growth. This is why you must protect your house from water damage.
Here are some tips to keep your home free of water damage:
Disconnect the Hoses
Standing water in a hose might freeze back into the pipe and create an ice block, which will stop the water flow and might even bust your pipes. This will damage your floors, walls, and even the foundation of your house.
Clean the Gutters and Downspouts
Make sure to clean your gutters at least twice a year to ensure that there are no blockages or ice dams. Standing water tends to damage the roof and gutters, and overflow of water that is not managed can create puddles that can damage the foundation of your home. Clean the downspouts to maintain steady water flow and secure them in a way that they point away from your home.
Shut Off Your Main Water Supply
If you are going on a long vacation, you should shut off your main water supply before you head out. This will prevent the chances of leaking pipes and dripping faucets, which can wreak havoc in your home if left unattended.
Check Your Appliances Regularly
Make sure to check your appliances for leaks and maintain them regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Investigate Leaks and Fix Them Right Away
If you see signs of moisture damage in your home, find the water leak right away and get it fixed. This will prevent mold and mildew growth in your home. It will also protect your property from experiencing structural damage.
Upgrade Your Washing Machine Hoses
Old and brittle washing machine hoses tend to leak and burst. Replace the old hoses regularly to avoid potential water damage to your home.
Install Water Detection Devices
Invest in a water detection device and install it near water heaters, washing machines, dishwashers, sump pumps, and toilets to prevent water damage. This device will sound an alarm as soon as it detects moisture. It’s ideal for detecting low moisture levels and slow leaks, which often go unnoticed until it’s too late.
Check Your Water Pressure
If the water pressure in your home is too high, it will lead to failing hoses and pipes. Invest in a water pressure gauge, attach it to an outside faucet, and turn the faucet to the maximum degree. The gauge will show a reading of your home’s water pressure. It should be between 40 – 70 psi. If it’s more than 100 psi, then you will need to install a pressure regulator.
Monitor Your Water Bill
Keep a close look at your water bill. If your use of water is significantly and inexplicably higher one month, then it’s a sign that there might be a water leak in your home. Check your house thoroughly for a leak and repair it as needed.
