Strategies for Preventing Residential Water Damage
Water damage can ruin your home’s foundation and cost thousands of dollars to repair. However, there are ways to prevent it. From gutter cleaning to hunting down leaks, there are several strategies you can use to avert residential water damage and protect your home.
- Maintain Trees and Shrubs
Trees and bushes can add beauty and value to your home’s exterior. However, their roots and branches can interfere with outdoor water systems. Prune back trees away from gutter systems and ensure growing plants are not crowding outdoor water valves.
- Chase Down Leaks
Even slow leaks can cause damage to your home over time. Chase down leaks indoors and outdoors and have them repaired by a professional to prevent future leakage.
- Clean Gutters Often
Gutter cleaning can be vital to prevent water pooling on your roof. You should inspect and have them cleaned at least once a month, especially after a heavy rain or windstorm.
- Inspect Under-Cabinet Plumbing
Sometimes leaks can happen within cabinetry under bathroom and kitchen sinks where you cannot see them. Inspect plumbing under your sinks at least once a month and test it for leaks. Preventative maintenance is always less expensive than a repair.
- Maintain Washing Machine Hoses
Your washing machine can be a major source for flooding if it is not cared for properly. Check hoses regularly for signs of wear and inspect the plumbing for leaks.
- Wrap Pipes in Cold Weather
Your home’s exterior pipes may freeze or burst in cold temperatures if they are not protected. Wrap them with flexible insulation or layers of fabric to prevent this potentially disastrous issue.
- Use Professional Services
Whether you need gutter cleaning or to have a leak fixed, enlisting the services of a professional can help ensure a job is done right the first time and give you peace of mind as a homeowner. These services can also save you time and money.
Residential water damage can be a difficult and costly problem. However, there are ways to prevent it, whether you invest in frequent gutter cleaning or take the time to fix or avoid leaks, and protect your home.