How To Prevent Water Damage

Preventing water damage in your home requires proper maintenance and diligence. Some water damage claims just can’t be helped – there are flooding, rain, windstorms and plumbing accidents. But many times, water damage can be avoided. Here we will look at the best strategies homeowners can use to prevent water damage in their home.

Water damage is destructive and costly. Water damage claims are the most common type of home insurance claim, and they can have many sources including weather events, plumbing problems, roof leaks, and even landscaping.

Plant carefully to avoid water damage

There is nothing like a beautifully landscaped home. If you have a green thumb and enjoy tending shrubs, bushes and trees, that’s wonderful. But be careful of what you plant and where. Tree, shrub, and bush roots can often grow into plumbing lines that enter the house.

Tree roots are strong and can be destructive to pipes. A burst or leaking water pipe is going to lead to water damage in your home. Don’t plant anything with extensive root systems around your pipes.

Clean your rain gutters regularly to avoid water damage

Cleaning your rain gutters may seem like a home maintenance chore that can be put off for a while, but clogged gutters can lead to water damage in your home. Make sure your gutters remain clean and free of debris so they can carry water away from your roof. If the gutters are clogged, water will pool on the roof and cause water damage to your roof and ceiling.

Make it a point to clean out your rain gutters twice a year to keep water away from your roof and prevent water damage.

Your water bill may be the first sign of water damage

Minor, but ongoing leaks may go unnoticed and cause extensive water damage. Sometimes the only way to find such leaks is to monitor your water bill carefully. Keeping a close on your water bill for any changes will alert you to changes in water usage. Monitor your monthly water bill carefully and investigate any changes in your water usage.

Be careful what you put in your pipes to prevent water damage

Often, water damage comes from a plumbing problem. The best way to avoid this type of water damage is to be careful of what you put down your pipes. Here are a few things to avoid to help keep your household pipes healthy:

Grease:

Keep from pouring oil down your drain. Grease, when cool, solidifies and can stick to the inside of your pipes. It can trap other smaller particles and eventually lead to a clogged drain. Clogged plumbing pipes can lead to water damage in your kitchen.

Harsh chemicals:

Sometimes, a clogged pipe can’t be avoided. Not all clogged pipes lead to water damage if you are careful. If you have a slow draining bathroom shower or sink, you likely have a clog in the drain pipe. But before you pour harsh chemicals down the drain to clear the pipe, reconsider. Harsh chemicals can eventually damage your drain pipes and lead to leaks and water damage. Instead, use a snake to clear the clog or contact a professional plumber for help, and then, contact Bulldog Adjusters!

Be careful what you flush:

Plumbers like to say only three “Ps” belong in a toilet. One is paper, and surely you can guess the other two. Flushing other objects down your toilet can lead to problems with your plumbing.

Be on the lookout for water leaks to prevent water damage in your home

An undetected leak can cause significant water damage in your home. Sometimes leaks under counters or behind appliances can go on for some time before they are noticed. A constant leak can create a lot of water damage in your home.

Avoid water damage by routinely inspecting your home for water leaks. Check your plumbing fixtures including sinks and toilets. Also, do a routine check underneath the sinks where the pipes are located. Lastly, check your water using appliances at the attachment points to make sure they are dry.

Routinely inspecting your home for water leaks can save you from costly water damage repairs.

Roof damage can lead to water damage

A healthy roof is one of the best defenses against water damage. Like any other part of your home, your roof requires maintenance. Routinely inspect your roof to make sure it is in excellent condition. A problem with your roof can lead to water damage inside your home. Start with these areas:

• Shingles: Look for lifting or damaged shingles. Shingles are designed to let water flow off the roof, but if they are damaged, they can’t do their job. The result is water damage to the roof.

• Flashing: To avoid water damage from your roof make sure your flashing is in good condition. If flashing is lifting or cracked, it must be repaired or replaced. Pay close attention to areas with chimneys, vents or roof seams.
• Seals around vents: Examine the seals around the roof vents for cracking.

Window seals and caulks can lead to water damage

Another area of your home that requires maintenance is around your windows. Windows that aren’t properly sealed and caulked can allow water to intrude and cause extensive water damage. Even a small amount of moisture around the windows can lead to mold and rot.

Routinely check your windows to make sure the seals are not cracked, and the caulk is secure to prevent water damage around your windows. Look for signs of water damage inside your home such as warping, peeling paint and discoloration.

Home maintenance is the best way to prevent water damage

Practicing proper home maintenance is the best way to avoid water damage from occurring in your home. If you have problems with your roof, appliances, plumbing or windows, be sure to repair them quickly. Minor issues can become significant problems if they lead to water damage in your home.

If you have a water damage claim and need help, contact Bulldog Adjusters. We are a public adjusting firm that helps homeowners get fair and accurate claim settlements.