Water damage is one of the major threats to homeowners that can lead to loss of property. You might be surprised to learn that water damage claims are ranked second after wind and hail damage. But the great news is there are many ways to protect your home from expensive water damage losses or claims. We have prepared several easy tips to help keep your home safe and well maintained to reduce the risk of water damage.
Dead leaves, branches, and other items can block your gutters from getting water off your roof effectively. During the rainy season, a blocked gutter can send water through the roof into your home’s foundation or basement, causing serious water damage. To avoid such a mess, make sure to clean the gutters regularly. Ensure the downspouts extend at least 2 meters from your house’s foundation wall to avoid water running back toward the house.
Home appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers can cause water damage if they have leaks. Always check and maintain your appliances periodically according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Appliance hoses should be inspected at least once a year and replaced if they show any deterioration signs. Even if the hoses are in perfect condition, they should be changed every 5 years.
A water detector always sounds an alarm when its sensors come into contact with water or moisture. It uses the same principle as a smoke detector. Its benefit is that it can detect moisture or slow leaks that go unnoticed. Install it near your washing appliances, and in washrooms to prevent extensive water damage and mold growth.
Every pipe design can only withstand a certain amount of pressure. When water pressure in your home is higher than the pipes can withstand, it will lead to pipe bursts and leakage. To ensure this does not happen, install a pressure regulator in your home’s water supply valve to maintain the normal flow of water if a certain pressure is reached.
Investigate and fix your home’s plumbing system if you come across any evidence of leaks. Be prepared to experience mold growth or even structural damage if you ignore small signs of water leakage. Also, keep in mind that your homeowner’s insurance only covers damage that is sudden and accidental. A standard homeowners’ insurance policy does not cover damage resulting from a lack of maintenance.
Some trees and plants have an invasive root system that can easily wrap around your pipes and septic tanks, breaking them. Make a plan to keep roots away from any water lines before planting. Make sure that the ground around your home slopes in the right direction to avoid water flowing back toward the foundation of your home.
If you need help restoring and cleaning your home from water damage in Naperville, GCPRO is here to help. Ensure you act fast, as time can be vital in minimizing the water damage in your home. By contacting the experts, you can save your property and keep the damage to a minimum. GCPRO is available 24/7 to answer any question you may have related to water damage.