How To Prevent Common Causes Of Water Damage

1/19/2023 (Permalink)

water damage

Water damage can cause all sorts of problems when inflicting a home. These can include structural damage and mold growth, both of which are extremely dangerous to anyone living on the property. Taking care of water damage is essential when ensuring the safety of any residents. Water damage can spread quickly, and the longer it sticks around, the more damage that will occur. SERVPRO of Moore wants you to know acting now is the best way to minimize both damage and any hazards that come along.

Natural Causes

Properties can sustain serious water damage from all sorts of natural disasters that cause water damage. Floods and heavy rainstorms are among the most common reasons for natural causes of water damage. Though these disasters don’t tend to occur every day, there is still a reason to ensure that your home is stable and strong enough to withstand damage. 

With that being said, here are some SERVPRO of Moore preventative measures that can be taken to waterproof your home. This ensures that no water can make it from outside the home to the inside and cause water damage. You can walk outside the exterior of the house and run down a checklist of items you will need to investigate. Gutters and downspouts are a huge aid in keeping water outside of the home, particularly when you are experiencing heavy weather. Be sure that these are always kept clear, sealed, and intact. 

You will also need to inspect the roof for missing or broken shingles. These can lead to leakages in the attic. This needs to be repaired as soon as possible and, most importantly, before a storm.

Check door frames and window frames to ensure that everything is sealed properly. Separation, crack, or soft spots are signs that the sealant isn’t as effective as it is meant to be. If you notice any of these, be sure to repair them immediately to avoid water damage. 

Internal Causes

Water damage can also come from inside the house. Water is utilized in our daily lives, so naturally, accidents are bound to happen. Most commonly, issues like these come from burst pipes, malfunctioning appliances, and faulty plumbing. Unfortunately, these problems can go under the radar, since they aren’t usually as explosive as natural disasters. Watching for signs of water damage is essential to avoid large amounts of damage. 

On walls, ceilings, and floors, watermarks will start to appear. These may look like darker or yellowing spots, as well as water rings present. Textures in the walls/ceilings may also change. These changes can include flaking, bubbling, or cracking in the drywall or paint. Additionally, walls may feel soft to the touch. Paint can also begin to sag if it is holding enough water behind it. Tile, laminate, or wood flooring will warp, crack, or split if it has been affected and water will continue to seep through. Be sure to go through your home and check the flooring, even if they aren’t visually changed. They could also feel damp or soft.