.2010261356009.png)
Water damage can occur in any home. From natural disasters to plumbing problems, sometimes one incident is all it takes to trigger a large-scale cleanup. Some damage is preventable, though. Defending your home from moisture is easier when you know what to look for and how to keep your plumbing network in pristine condition.
Causes of Water Damage
Your residential space can take on water damage when water pools or sits in one place for prolonged periods of time. Structures tend to absorb water when storms or plumbing leaks create puddles near basement windows and rooftops. Some of the most common causes of water damage include:
- Gutter clogs
- HVAC system malfunctions
- Roof damage
- Inclement weather
- Plumbing pipe corrosion
- Home appliances overflow
How to Prevent Water Damage in Your Home
Are you wondering how to protect your home from water damage? The key to preventing damage is to keep your eyes open for anything out of the ordinary in or around the home.
Performing the following tasks between seasons can help you block out moisture and limit the chances of indoor flooding.
1. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters
A residential roof shields you and your family from rain, snow and hail. Stay on top of roof maintenance as temperatures change to catch signs of deterioration. It is recommended that you use a ladder to assess shingles, flashing and other materials any time an intense storm rolls through town.
Gutters are a common source of home water damage, as leaves, nests and tree branches interfere with performance. Always clean your gutters before fall and spring, and ensure downspouts are angled away from the home. Consider hiring a professional to mount gutter guards so that acorns, insects, birds and leaves stay out of your gutter system.
2. Caulk and Seal Your Windows
Caulking is an excellent way to prevent water from settling within crevices. Homeowners can rely on water-resistant sealants to close off openings near window frames and other moisture-prone areas such as tubs, sinks and shower doors. Caulking materials are inexpensive, and most projects can be completed in a single day.
3. Check Your Indoor Plumbing Pipes
Household pipes undergo stress year-round. Metal connections sitting below sinks, toilets and appliances expand and contract with temperature changes. Take a closer look at indoor plumbing pipes during winter and summer for water damage prevention.
Double-checking that your pipes are free of rust, leaks and missing hardware reduces your chance of a sudden burst. Have a plumbing professional perform an inspection of your pipeline network to see if any repairs are needed.
4. Test Your Home's Sump Pump
Sump pumps exist in some residential basements to limit flooding. These installations rely on a basin below the ground to redirect water to a main drainage area. Sump pumps are useful during rain storms, but only if connections perform as intended. Follow these steps to test your system:
- Look at your sump pump's exit pipe to see if any clogs are present.
- Ensure your sump pump is operating via a functional power supply.
- Pour several gallons of water into your sump pump before a storm to see how the system reacts.
Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Greater Syracuse for Residential Plumbing Repairs
Mr. Rooter Plumbing specializes in water damage prevention. Our licensed plumbers can visit your location to troubleshoot issues before an indoor flood occurs, and we handle everything from minor repairs and leaks to basement drainage.
Complete our online form to receive a job estimate today.