9 Tips to Avoid Water Damage in Your Home

Water damage is more common than one could imagine. About 37% homeowners in the US have incurred losses due to water damage. Water damage not only leads to formation of mold on the wall, floor and panels; but also rots the furniture, rugs, curtains or anything that comes in contact with it. So it is important to avoid water damage in the first place.

Fairy Lights – Festoon House

Here are 9 tips to help you avoid it

1. Check The Pipes And Drains

The pipeline and drains in the house should be checked at least once a year for any cracks or leaks. Cracks are mainly caused by rocky terrain, corroded metal pipes or even high water pressure.

The cracks lead to excess water flow. The best way to avoid it is to look for cracks or leaks in pipelines and get it repaired immediately. And in case there has already been too much water leakage, it is important to get the water damage restored right away.

2. Clean The Gutters

If the gutters aren’t cleaned regularly, then sediments, dirt, debris etc. can accumulate quickly. This causes an increase in water pressure as water doesn’t have enough space to move out. So, water can burst out and overflow the pipe. So, scrape off the dirt or debris once in a while.

3. Understand The Use Of Water Main

As soon as you encounter water damage, just turn the water main off. This avoids further damage. Also, make sure everyone (even the kids) know where the main is. Teach all the family members to operate the water main.

4. Install Water Detention Sensors

Water sensors can detect moisture in your home and if you are on a holiday, the neighbors can hear the alarm and call for necessary help if required. You should install these sensors near the pipelines, toilets etc.

5. Check The Appliances

A faulty dishwater leads to standing water inside and when you open its door, the water falls onto the floor causing severe water damage. Likewise, other faulty appliances can also cause water damage in your home.

6. Regulate The Water Pressure

Water flowing at high pressure can damage weak pipes. Further, it can increase the size of cracks in the pipes. It can also break heavily corroded metal pipes. So, it’s best to verify the strength and pressure of the water flow.

7. Tighten The Joints

It’s always good to tighten the joints or screws in the pipes and roofs as it increases the mechanical strength. If tightening is not enough, replace the flashings with new ones as soon as possible.

8. Prune Tree Roots Regularly

We all know that the roots of plants help avoid erosion. But too much roots can damage the pipes as the roots can grow over the pipelines and if its growth isn’t in check, it can overcrowd the pipes and increase the pressure on them. The pipes break as a result of it. So, prune and trim the roots and branches frequently.

9. Check Your Water Bill

Some leaks can go unnoticed, especially the small ones. Well, you can’t notice the leaking amount everyday but can make it out in the monthly bill. Check your water bill to ensure no such leaks are present.

Water damage is a preventable problem. A frequent check of the pipes, appliances, plants and the water bill is all you need to avoid it. So, go on and make it a habit to check these.

Photo by katie manning on Unsplash