Water damage is one of the most common and costly problems to affect a home. The good news, there are ways to maintain a home to prevent water damage problems from happening.
- Remove outdoor plants and trees that are planted near water and sewage pipes
- Remove hoses from outdoor faucets when a freeze is anticipated
- Clean your gutters and down spouts frequently
- Push rain runoff away from the foundation (especially door and garage entries)
- Have sandbags ready if your home is in a potential flood zone
- If you have a sump pump, make sure it is in good working order
- Inspect your windows for water leaks
- Look at your roof, or have it professionally inspected
- Install a smart water main shutoff valve
- Install smart water sensors
- Inspect appliances that use water/ keep them in good repair
- Washing machines
- Dishwashers
- Ice makers
- Water-heaters
- Know where your main water shutoff is located
- Know how to shutoff specific water valves to toilets, sinks, etc.
The Importance of Your Water Main:
Your water main supplies water to the other pipes throughout your entire house. If you experience a plumbing emergency inside your home, know where to shut off the water to minimize any damage.
It’s also a smart idea to shut off your water main if you leave your home for an extended period-of-time.
Maintain Your Appliances:
Appliances are the most common cause of in-home water damage. A water supply hose typically has a life expectancy of about five years. Replace yours regularly to avoid an expensive damage. Check and maintain your appliances regularly for leaks according to manufacturer’s directions.
Install Water Detection Devices
A water detector is a small electronic device that sounds an alarm when its sensor is in contact with moisture. Install it near water heaters, sump pumps, washing machines, dishwashers, and toilets to prevent extensive damage. Some of the most advanced sensor can be connected to WIFI to send an alert signal to a smart phone. These devices are available at hardware stores and online retailers.
The potential for mold growth happening when a water damage occurs in a home is always a concern. 123HELP water damage cleanup contractors know how to dry a wet structure and prevent mold growth. For factual information concerning moisture and mold see the EPA booklet Mold, Moisture and You Home.
When Water Damage Happens:
Contact the appropriate 123 HELP recommended contractor quickly to provide mitigation service because water spreads quickly and the damage gets worse with time. Expert water damage repair companies are able to cleanup and dry structures that have been flooded by both clean and black water. The goal of a 123HELP emergency water damage cleanup contractors is to dry a wet structure in three to five days. This goal prevents or reduces potential secondary damage such as mold growth.
