water damage
Home Improvement

12 Valuable Tips to Avoid Water Damage in Your Home

Water damage is one of the most costly misfortunes suffered by a homeowner. Billions of dollars are wasted on water mitigation procedures every year. In most cases, all it takes is a leaky pipe and valuables worth thousands of dollars are ruined.

The good news is that you are not completely powerless. There are tactics and tips to prevent your home from water damages. Keep your observant eyes open and you can avoid water disasters.

There are cases when things are out of your control and natural disasters such as floods bring the water in. When such is the case, hire professionals’ services of water damage restoration in Austin TX.

The following are 12 valuable tips to avoid water damage in your home.

1. Regular Roof Inspection

A leaky roof is one of the most common reasons for water damage. Inspect your ceiling for any signs of water stains and drips. Chipping and flaking paint is another indication of water damage.

Get on the roof and inspect for any missing shingles or cracks which can allow water to get inside. Recheck the chimneys, flashings, and skylights.

2. Install Gutter Guards

Gutters and downspouts are designed to carry away the excess water from the building. Gutter guards are installed to prevent clogging of gutters.

The sieve, mesh or nets could be installed that the leaves and debris do not block the passage of water. Water retention over the roof can lead to water damage.

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3. Ensure Steady Drainage

Maintaining steady drainage is essential for the longevity of a building. Keep a check on the drains carrying water away from the house.

Regularly clean the gutters and downspouts. Poor drainage can lead to wall cracks, pooling of water and uneven settling.

4. Protect Your Home Foundation

Ensure that the downspouts extend at least 6 feet away from the house. Add layers of soil around your home foundation to create down slopes.

For effective protection of home foundation, create a slope of 6 inches. Water pools near the home foundation can cause walls to lean, cracks and mold growth. Water damage restoration is quite expensive when foundation repairs are involved.

5. Pay Attention to Trees And Shrubs

An impressive landscape is important for the curb appeal of the home. The large trees and shrubs with hanging branches can damage the roof. The root systems of some trees are pretty invasive.

Plant the trees away from pipelines so that the roots do not grow into the pipes, septic tanks, and sprinkler systems. When the trees are already there, protect your underground pipes well.

6. Inspect the Home Irrigation System

It is not uncommon to see lawns flooding due to leaking sprinkler systems. Ensure that the irrigation system of your lawn is not pooling water around the home foundation.

As winters are around the corner, do not forget to drain the outside faucets. The freezing temperatures can cause pipe bursts and water damage ultimately.

7. Locate Water Main

It is surprising to know that most homeowners have no idea about the location of the water main. Locating the water main is the first step in minimizing water disasters.

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During flooding or sudden pipe bursts, immediately close the water main. Imagine the expenses when you have to repair water damaged wood.

8. Repair Concrete Cracks

Concrete cracks are the water pathways leading to the home foundation or walls. When you see cracks in the concrete get these repaired as soon as possible. Temperatures are plummeting and frozen water is far more dangerous than the liquid.

Concrete caulk can be used to repair cracks smaller than 1/4 of an inch. When the cracks are larger, use concrete patches. You can always hire a professional for water damage wall repair.

9. Prevent Appliance Water Leak

Domestic appliances account for a significant portion of water damage claims in the USA. The appliances could have hidden leaks which can cause havoc when unnoticed.

You can install drain pans under the washing machines, dryers and refrigerators to prevent damage from slow hidden leaks. Use flood safe hoses for your washing machines and consider replacing the hose after every five years.

11. Seal the Doors and Windows

Badly fitted windows or doors allows for water invasion. The risk significantly increases during rain, snow or strong winds. Seeping water damages the wooden frames and doors. Install weather stripping and caulk to tightly seal the doors and windows. Intact seals are essential for energy-efficient homes.

12. Check Sinks and Faucets

Bathrooms and kitchens are the most vulnerable areas to water flooding. It is suggested to routinely check the sinks and faucets for any kind of leaks. Despite all the preventive measures, emergencies occur. When the water damages are too severe to handle, call the nearest water damage restoration company.

 

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