Tips to avoid water damage to your home
1/24/2020 (Permalink)
How can I protect my house from water damage?
- Disconnect Hoses
Standing water in a hose may freeze back into the pipe and create an ice block that – in a best-case scenario – stops your water flow and, worst case, may bust your pipes and create damage to walls, floor and foundation.
- Maintain Trees and Vegetation
Thriving shrubs can be a beautiful thing – except when their roots wrap around your pipes and break them. That’s why it’s important to minimize landscaping near utility pipes or, if necessary, remove trees and shrubs that have become too big.
- Know your Water Main
Know the location of your water main and shut it off if you leave for an extended amount of time. If no water goes into the house, chances are no faucet drips can wreak havoc on your home!
- Check Appliances Regularly
Check and maintain your appliances regularly for leaks according to manufacturer’s directions.
- Investigate Leaks Right Away and Fix Promptly
If you opt to ignore moisture damage, or postpone making the necessary repairs, be prepared to experience mold, mildew, dry rot, or even structural damage to your home.
- Upgrade Washing Machine Hoses
Old, brittle or leaky washing machine hoses are among the most frequent causes of water loss for homeowners. Replace yours regularly to avoid a mighty mess and expensive damage.
- Install Water Detection Devices
A water detector is a small electronic device that sounds an alarm when its sensor is in contact with moisture. Its main benefit is that it detects low moisture levels or slow leaks that often go unnoticed. Install it near water heaters, sump pumps, washing machines, dishwashers and toilets to prevent extensive damage and mold growth.
- Monitor Your Water Bill
Sometimes, the only way you know that water is leaking is taking a closer look at your water bill. If your usage jumps significantly from one month to the next without explanation, put your “water detective’s hat” on. Is there a leak in your crawlspace? Or, is it a pipe in your front yard? Don’t leave mystery leaks unattended!
Follow these tips to keep your home safe and well-maintained, call SERVPRO of Lake Forest South/Laguna Woods for any type of inspection.