5 tips to prevent water damage in your home

2/9/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Team Shaw using specialized equipment to clean up water damage.

Water damage is one of the most common causes of property loss in homes across the country. Whether it's caused by burst pipes, flooding, or a leaking roof—water can cause serious damage to your home and possessions. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent water damage before it becomes a costly problem. Here's what you need to know. 

Check Pipes Regularly 

One of the best ways to prevent water damage in your home is to regularly check your pipes for any signs of wear or corrosion. Check for leaks around faucets and showerheads, as well as any visible cracks or dents in the pipes themselves. If you notice anything amiss, have the pipe fixed or replaced ASAP before the issue escalates and causes further damage.

Maintain Your Roof 

Your roof is another important area that needs regular maintenance if you want to protect your home from water damage. Be sure to keep an eye out for missing shingles and inspect for any signs of leakage after storms or heavy rainfalls. 

Don't Neglect Appliances 

Another potential source of water damage is faulty appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers. Make sure all hoses are securely connected and check them regularly for cracks or other signs of wear that could lead to a leak down the line. Consider investing in a shutoff valve so you can quickly turn off the water supply if needed—this could potentially save thousands in repair costs if something goes wrong with an appliance at home. 

Check Your Gutters 

Clogged gutters can cause rainwater to overflow onto your roof and into your walls, leading to extensive water damage over time. To prevent this from happening, make sure you clean out your gutters at least once a year. This will help ensure that they are free from debris such as leaves, twigs, and other materials that can block the flow of rainwater away from your home’s foundation. Additionally, check for any loose or missing shingles on the roof that could lead to water leakage into your attic or walls during a heavy rainfall. If needed, call a professional roofer for assistance in repairing any issues with your roof or gutters quickly. 

Install Waterproofing Solutions 

Waterproofing solutions such as sump pumps and battery-operated back-up systems can help protect against flooding in basements during severe storms by pumping excess moisture away from the foundation of the house before it has a chance to seep inside through cracks in the walls or floorboards. Installing waterproof wall membranes is also an effective way to keep out moisture while preventing mold growth which can lead to serious health issues in addition to costly property damage repairs down the line.