Water damage is a common issue in many residential spaces. While some places are prone to water damage due to their location and climate, a natural cause is not always the culprit.
Sometimes, negligence or poor maintenance can also lead to water damage. However, homeowners can take several preventative measures to reduce the chances of their property experiencing water damage. We discuss them in this guide.
Anything that causes excess moisture in your home can be considered water damage. Here are some instances:
Homeowners can take several steps to prevent water damage to their property. Here are six tips you can follow:
Check All Appliances In Your Home
Any appliance that uses water can be a source of water damage. Therefore, inspecting these appliances and checking their hoses, pipes, valves, and seals for any signs of damage is essential. In the kitchen, here’s what you need to check:
The eavestroughs and downspouts must always be kept clean, as clogged gutters can lead to water accumulation. Inspect your gutters and downspouts regularly, and clean them out if needed.
You can hire a professional if your gutters are too high to reach. It’s best to clean the downspouts two times a year. You might have to clean them more often if you live in a heavily wooded area or if you experience intense storms often.
Use Water Damage Prevention Technology
You can find plenty of products that are designed to prevent water damage. Here are some options.
Install a Sump Pump
If you still need one, install a sump pump on your property. It will collect excess water in your basement and pump it away from the house.
With a sump pump in place, you can have peace of mind knowing that your basement won’t be prone to water damage. Select a sump pump with a reliable float switch, so you know it will automatically turn on when water levels rise.
Check For Leaks
Cracked grout or leaks in the pipes can often be the cause of mold in the bathroom. Inspect your plumbing and ensure no leaks come from pipes, faucets, or valves.
It would help if you looked for leaks every three months. The best way to do this is to have a contractor come to your home and inspect the plumbing.
It is also essential to check for any cracked grout or missing tiles. If there’s a crack in the grout or a missing tile, you should replace or repair the problem as soon as possible.
Inspect the Roof
The roof often becomes the source of water damage in your home. Therefore, you should inspect the roof for any signs of broken tiles, shingles, or other parts. The sooner you replace these broken or damaged bits, the safer you’ll be.
On average, you should check your roof for signs of wear and tear every six months. If your area gets a lot of storms, hail, or wind, you should check it more often.
It’s best to hire a professional roofing inspector to come in and do an inspection for you.
If your home experiences water damage, you should have a plan of action. Here’s what to do.
Contact Your Insurance Company
If you have homeowner’s insurance, you should file a claim when there’s water damage. An adjuster from the insurance company will come to your property and assess the damage.
You should also document every process step with photos and detailed notes. It will help you keep track of damage for your insurance claim.
Call a Water Damage Restoration Company
The next step is to contact a water damage restoration company. They will be able to assess the extent of the damage and provide an estimate for their services. At Texas Riviera Restoration, we are always here to help. Call us today for water damage repair and restoration.