One of the most common ways to deal with water damage is to get insurance. Water damage can start small and get worse over time. This is a costly repair process and can be prevented by following a few basic steps. Here are 5 steps you can take to protect your home from water damage. Read on for more information. Listed below are some ways to protect your home from water damage. Listed below are some of the best tips for homeowners.
Check Your Appliances – Most water damage occurs due to leaks in pipes and maintenance issues. Even minor leaks can result in extensive water damage and mold growth. Make sure to regularly check appliances for signs of water damage and have them repaired. Check under the sinks and around appliances for signs of water damage. It is important to replace any damaged hoses immediately to prevent further damage. If you’re away from home, make sure all faucets and appliances are turned off and turn them off.
Check Exterior Walls – The most obvious place to check for water leakage is around the exterior window and door frames. Make sure that there are no cracks around these frames or gaps. Cracks around the window casings should also be sealed with caulking. Also, check the drywall and plaster for signs of water damage. Poorly maintained exterior paint and siding can allow water to seep in and cause mold to develop.
Check Your Insurance – Even though you may think that your homeowners insurance policy will cover the expenses of repairing your water damage, this might not be enough. Your homeowner’s insurance will cover only accidental, sudden damage to your home. If you have neglected your insurance, you could be responsible for any damage that results from a leak. However, preventing water damage is the most important part of home ownership. It can lead to damaged flooring, a smelly carpet, and mould growth.
Keeping Your Items Safe – Keeping important documents and records in waterproof containers will help you to avoid water damage. When leaving your house, always secure important papers or records in a waterproof safe. It is also important to remove electrical cords from your home as these can lead to electric shock. Check your windows and air vents for leaks as well. Make sure they extend at least six feet from the building. If possible, remove dead leaves and debris from trees.
Make Sure Your House is Properly Drained – By taking precautions to protect your home from water damage, you can avoid costly repair bills. Regular maintenance of key areas will ensure that water will not enter your home. Disconnecting your hoses should be on your fall to-do list. Standing water can freeze back into the pipe and stop the water flow. Eventually, the frozen water will cause damage to your walls and floors.
