Every new homeowner might not take water damage seriously. They might think it’s just water that will not do anything devastating and can easily get dried for several hours. However, it’s not as simple as it looks. Unless you experience water damage firsthand, you’ll never know how much trouble it can cause. But you don’t have to wait for water damage to see how destructive it can be.
It’s better to avoid it in the first place to protect your valuables and your cherished home. Knowing the causes of water damage is the first step to preventing it, so let’s discuss its common culprits to look out for.
What Causes Water Damage in Homes
Most water damage is preventable with the right knowledge, and knowing what causes something helps you be proactive in taking preventative measures. Below are five reasons Florida homeowners experience water damage:
1. Damaged Pipes
Plumbing systems that aren’t routinely monitored and maintained are common water damage culprits in Florida. A broken pipe can be catastrophic as it can destroy the flooring. Even small, steady leaks can damage drywall to the point that it must be replaced. No matter the severity of your pipe leaks, the resulting water damage may be destructive.
This is why you must regularly inspect your plumbing systems and perform repiping as necessary. Otherwise, you’ll need to employ a water mitigation service should your faulty pipes keep causing water damage.
2. Faulty Appliances
Many are unaware that defective and old appliances can cause water damage. Old water heaters and washing machines can naturally trigger water damage due to faulty connections or hoses that weren’t maintained or regularly replaced. Unattended faulty, leaking appliances can cause mold growth and musty odor in homes. But this can be prevented by performing routine checks on the hose connections and replacing old appliances that are fairly used past their intended lifespan.
3. Natural Disasters
Natural disasters like heavy rains, hurricanes, and thunderstorms are common in Florida. These disasters cause flooding and leave massive quantities of water that pose a significant risk of water damage to houses. Storm-related water intrusion problems can be avoided by doing regular preventive maintenance in areas where leaks are likely to occur.
You can also take the following procedures to avoid flood water entering your house:
- Install a sump pump in case of heavy rains.
- Make sure the downspouts and gutters are clear of debris so water can flow away from your home properly.
- Ensure there is no water accumulation around your house, as ground saturation can result in flooding and structural damage.
- If you’re in a flood-prone area, consider having flood insurance to help cover the expenses of any water damage repairs.
When natural disasters strike Florida, it’s common to see individuals employing water remediation specialists due to the extensive property damage they often cause. You may click here for more details on their restoration services.
4. Leaky Roofs
The roof protects you and your house from all the elements outside. It’s easy to have molds and water damage in your home if your roof is not in tip-top condition. Furthermore, leaky roofs can expose your home to water and anything that may slip through its cracks, increasing your risk of structural damage. Regularly checking your roof can prevent mold growth and water damage on your property.
5. Clogged Drains
Clogged drains can restrict the water flow and cause water contamination, unpleasant odors, health risks, pests, and structural damage. Clogs left neglected can increase the pressure within the drain, causing the water to strain your water pipes and eventually burst or cause water leaks through seals and joints.
Conclusion
Now that you’re aware of the common water damage culprits, you have an idea of how to prevent it. Sometimes it might be inevitable to experience water damage in your house. Since the internet offers abundant information on handling home water damage, anyone might think it’s doable to address the issue themselves, and there’s nothing wrong with that. However, restoration professionals offer safe and convenient solutions that can save your time and promote health safety.
