Common Causes of Water Damage

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

By educating yourself, you can do much in the way of preventing water damage emergencies. In addition to this, if they do happen, you’ll be more ready to tackle them quickly and efficiently to minimize your loss.

Here are a few of the top causes of water damage, and things you can do in an effort to prevent them in your own home:

1. Appliances and equipment. It is logical that the countless appliances in your home that use water would be susceptible to water damage. Washing machines, air conditioners, dishwashers, and water heaters are typical culprits. The best thing you can do to prevent water damage from these sources is to be aware of the state of your equipment. Familiarize yourself with the pipes and tubes especially, and replace anything that looks brittle, rusty, or has bulging or signs of moisture. These replacements are investments for the future. In addition, try to be present in the home while running the washing machine or dishwasher.
2. Roofing. This is a huge culprit. Make sure you are checking your roof routinely. Standing water is a bad sign that often indicates a drainage problem.
3. Rain and storms. These are sometimes harder to predict and protect against, but there are still precautions you can take to protect against water damage from rain water. Keep your gutters clear. Monitor window wells to the basement level of your home and ensure that standing water does not collect.
4. Pipes. 50% of flooding incidents are a result of burst water supply lines! Insulate pipes that may be exposed to colder temperatures to help prevent freezing and bursting. Another helpful tip is to monitor your water bill. Don’t just pay it- pay attention to it, as well! Significant or sudden increases can indicate leaks that should be investigated.
5. Clogged drains. These are a perfect environment for nasty bacteria to grow and fester. When they get out of hand, they can cause sewage backups or overflowing, and water that comes from these sources is likely contaminated.

Being aware of the dangers of water damage is half the battle and is an excellent way to prevent water damage before it happens. If it’s too late for prevention, use it as a learning experience. Do research, ask questions, and call a professional at SERVPRO of Oldham/Shelby County to help you promptly and effectively clean up the mess. 502.241.6861 With the right response, you can come out of this inconvenient experience feeling confident that you know how to give yourself the best shot at avoiding future disasters.