Water damage is a common cause of economic loss that is not limited to certain times of the year. While preparing your home for winter is essential, leaks that go unnoticed throughout the summer may cause significant harm. If you comply with these simple steps, you may prevent water damage to your home throughout the year.
- Locate the stopcock and turn it on. Make sure you and your loved ones are aware of its location. A significant leak or rupture needs a few minutes to do substantial damage. The site and procedure for shutting off the water supply should be memorized.
- Test the operation of your basement’s sump pump. If your home has a basement, you know how vital the sump pump is for keeping the space dry after a heavy downpour. Maintain it with annual servicing if you own one.
- Don’t let any trash collect in your downspouts. Leaves commonly cause backed-up gutters, but this issue isn’t limited to the fall. Typical suspects include weeds and moss. Congestion in the drains is a leading source of water damage. Water running down your home’s side is a sure sign that your gutters are blocked and need cleaning.
- Early identification of leaks: It’s easy to disregard a little leak, but if you let it go unchecked, it might lead to a significant catastrophe, which is why it’s so important to discuss such issues with restoration companies like Protegrity Restoration. Think about the 57 gallons of water that may be wasted each week due to a leaky faucet (260 liters). If you suspect water leaks from your washing machine or dishwasher, check the areas under and surrounding these machines.
- Make sure the inside and exterior of your roof are checked. If you suspect water is entering your home via the top, check the attic for signs of leaks. Find any damp areas on the joists or tea-colored stains on the wallboard. Make sure the chimney flashing is in excellent shape, and check for any signs of damage to the roof by walking around the perimeter of the building.
- Keep the pipes from freezing. When gone, set your smart thermostat to maintain a comfortable temperature of at least 10 degrees Celsius. To keep your lines from freezing, you must ensure that hot water can easily flow through them.
- Investigate for any moldy or wet areas. Peeling wallpaper or paint and black stains on skirting and sills are all potential signs of excessive humidity. If you sense a cold while touching the walls or detect a musty odor, you may want to look into adding extra insulation.
