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Originally Posted On: https://www.mesa-water-damage.com/9-ways-to-keep-your-home-protected-from-signs-of-water-damage
Did you know that you can pay up to $20 billion annually on repairs for water damage? Water damage is very expensive to deal with. Though some homeowners insurance policies cover some of the damages, you will still have to deal with the stress of the damages.
Since around 14.6 million U.S. homes are at risk of flooding, it is crucial to know how to minimize the risks. This includes knowing the signs of water damage. If you avoid dealing with major water damage, here are some of the signs you need to look out for and what you can do to protect your home.
1. Check and Maintain Your Sump Pump
It is crucial to inspect your sump pump after every few months. Since you cannot know if there’s a problem with the sump pump until it breaks down, checking it out periodically will help you detect any problems and ensure it is fixed.
Your sump pump is your home’s last line of defense in case of basement flooding. Therefore, to avoid any unpleasant surprises, you need to ensure that its electrical outlet is working and the pump can automatically turn on.
Since the sump pump contains electrical components, it may be best to hire the right professionals to check it. This way, you will be safe and can be sure to have a reliable and efficient sump pump.
2. Mildew and Mold are Signs of Water Damage
Water damages do not only result from flooding or disasters such as hurricanes. In some cases, a water leak under the sinks or cabinets can have mold and mildew, which are signs of water leaks.
However, problems with the heating and cooling system can result in condensation, which is also a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Suppose you spot any mildew or mold in your home. In that case, you need to consult a professional to locate the leak and protect your home from water damage.
Note that when left unchecked, leaks will rot out studs and drywall. This also creates black mold, making major structural elements such as beams and joists weak.
Exposing your family to black mold can also severely affect their health.
3. Inspect Your Plumbing for Leaks
A leak is a major cause of water damage in the home. Since you may not be able to know if your pipes or plumbing system is leaking until it is too late, you need to schedule a regular plumbing inspection.
Expert plumbers offer leak and plumbing inspection services. These professionals have the right machines and equipment to detect leaks before they can cause major damage. When left unchecked and fixed, even a pin-sized hole can cause severe water damage to your home.
Therefore, to avoid expensive repairs and other expenses, consult a professional leak detection services provider and have your plumbing system checked regularly and identify all weak areas within the system.
4. Inspect the Roof
Apart from leaks in the plumbing system, missing, loose, or cracked shingles can also cause water damage. Without a weather-tight roof, water can get into your home. Roofs can leak in several ways.
Therefore, talk to a roof inspector and have your roof inspected. Also, always inspect your roof before winter to ensure it’s weatherproof. Do not forget to check for damages from tree limbs and overgrown moss under the shingles.
While inspecting the roof, also inspect the gutters and remove any debris from them. Cleaning the gutters will help prevent clogs and backups, which will minimize the risk of water damage.
5. Fix Missing or Cracked Caulking
To eliminate leaks around your doors and windows even before they begin, you need to fix any missing or cracked caulking. There’s no such a thing as an acceptable crack, especially during winter. Fix all cracks regardless of their size.
Check for signs of leaks inside the cracks, such as bubbled paint, mold spots, crumbly plaster, or drywall. Also, check for signs of termite infestation or activity. Pay more attention to areas such as the top of the window casing.
Such areas tend to accumulate more water, increasing the risks of severe water damage.
6. Invest in a Water Leak Sensor
Smart devices such as moisture and temperature sensors can help detect possible leaks and prevent water damage. These devices can send a notification to your smartphone when the temperature in your home changes suddenly or when there is moisture or water leak within your home.
There are sophisticated models that can also turn off the water that comes into your home. Get the right leak sensor and prevent your home from water damage.
7. Know the Location of the Main Valve
One of the first places you need to go when you discover a water leak in your home is your main valve. Therefore, knowing where it is located can help prevent water damage. To mitigate water damage, you need to turn off the main valve as fast as possible.
Once you do this, call your expert plumber and get the leak fixed immediately.
8. Monitor Your Water Pressure
It is crucial that you monitor your water pressure and check your utility bills. Suppose you notice a spike in your consumption or any other abnormality. Chances are there are leaks in your home.
Additionally, if the water pressure in your home decreases, you may be dealing with burst pipes or leaks. Call an expert and have the main supply line to your home checked for leaks or cracks.
9. Inspect and Repair the Chimney
Apart from the roof, you also need to check the chimney. Cracked bricks or loose mortar tend to allow water and moisture to seep into the house. Since your chimney is a major opening in your home, you need to ensure it is completely weather sealed.
To prevent rain or any moisture from getting inside your home, install a chimney cap and repair all cracks around the chimney.
Consider These Tips to Prevent Your Home from Water Damage
Water damages are costly to deal with. To save money and avoid stress, you need to check your home for any signs of water damage and ensure you minimize the risks of water damage.
If you want to protect your home from water damage, reach out to our experts or call us at (480) 613-7068 at Mesa Water Damage Specialists and learn how we can protect your home.
