Water damage can occur from different sources. Making it a common problem for homeowners. When water creeps into the areas of your home or property, it could cause serious water damage. Water can warp your floor, discolor paint on your walls and ceilings, and ruin your wood. Floodwater can contaminate the area with mold growth. Worst is, the water damage that is left unattended can compromise the structure of your property. However, water damage can be prevented in many ways. With proper knowledge of the most common sources of water damage, you can protect your home or building from serious water damage.
Sources of Water Damage in Homes
1. Damaged Pipes
Pipes, especially the old ones, are prone to getting damaged and eventually burst. To avoid a burst pipe, check your plumbing system regularly for any signs of damage. Replace these pipes with PVC when necessary.
Be on the lookout for cracks, stains, bulges, and wetness on your ceiling walls. An increase in your water bill is also a sign that you are dealing with leaking pipes. Contact a plumber immediately to avoid larger plumbing problems in the future.
2. Malfunctioned Appliances
As appliances get older, their pipes become rusty and hoses weaken. When parts of these appliances are broken, they become one of the common causes of water damage in homes.
Washing machines are one of the most common appliances that can cause water damage. In most cases, washing machines leak due to rubber hose failures. Inspect the supply hose at least once a year and replace it (with reinforced hoses) every three to five years.
Water damage from a water heater normally occurs due to the old water heater itself and poorly maintained machine. Water heaters are another appliance that can frequently cause water damage in homes. So, make sure to check the machine regularly. Have it inspected with a local plumber at least once every two years to avoid any water damage problems.
Just like washing machines and water heaters, dishwashers and refrigerators can also leak and contribute to water damage. Thus, it is important to keep an eye on these machines.
3. Toilet Overflow
Most toilet overflows occur due to clogged or blocked drains. Toilet drains due to improper disposal of solid items like tissue paper or sanitary napkins. Avoid throwing such items in your toilet to prevent toilet failure.
If your toilet overflows, turn off the supply valve. If the problem often occurs, you may need to call a plumber to check and fix the problem. There might be a bigger problem that is causing your toilet to overflow.
4. Clogged gutters
Gutters are supposed to direct rainwater away from your home. Unfortunately, leaves, branches, and other debris can clog your gutters. If clogged, rainwater won’t be able to flow properly away from your home. Instead, the water will overflow to the edges of your gutters and run down to your home’s foundation. This can cause water to leak inside your home.
5. Clogged or blocked drains
Kitchen sinks and bathroom drains can clog for several reasons. Toiletries, dirt, hair, and grease buildup can block the drain lines and prevent normal drainage. If left unattended, clogged drains can back up and eventually cause water damage to the area and other areas of your home.
6. Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, thunderstorms, and other natural disasters can bring large amounts of water into your home. Strong winds and heavy rains have the potential to damage your roof, which can send water straight down to your home. Flooding can allow water to enter or overflow inside your property.
Before any natural disaster hits your area, take all preventative measures to minimize or prevent any damage. Ensure that the lawn is graded properly away from your home. Repair any missing or damaged shingles on your roof. Make sure you know where the main water supply line valve is.
When water has affected your home, take prompt action by contacting a professional water damage restoration company. They will help you restore your home to its pre-damaged condition.
Professional Water Damage Restoration Services
Accidents do happen and your home may suffer from water damage. In the event of water damage, trust Superior Restoration. It is a leading restoration company in Temecula that offers quality water damage cleanup and restoration services. Call Superior Restoration today.
