Overview: Water seeping inside your house is a major headache for homeowners. Here are few tips you can follow to avoid water damage at your house!
When it comes to home plumbing, we only give it a second thought if we’re forced to — usually because it stops working the way it should. Water damage is one of the worst plumbing problems of all – and an event that homeowners try their best to avoid. Water is meant to stay inside controlled structures, supply pipes, sink, and drain pipes. We never want to see water run unabated in walls, basements, and crawlspaces.
The good news is that a few simple measures can go a long way toward helping you avoid everything from minor water damage to major emergencies that necessitate expensive contractor work. All in all, it’s best to be ready for whatever may come your way, but taking preventative steps and maintaining emergency preparedness is essential. That’s precisely why we’ve created this guide to help you.
8 Tips on How to Avoid Water Damage
Whether you experience a catastrophic or minute water leak, don’t overlook them – the damage can be devastating. Here’s a list of things you can do to protect your home from water damage.
Check hoses and faucets on a regular basis: Having been in the plumbing game for the past 17 years, we recommend periodically checking hoses that lead to your dishwasher, washing machine, and sinks biweekly or once a month – looking for cracks or water leaks. If you notice drops dripping, consider consulting an expert. To be on the safe side, we also recommend replacing all hoses every five to seven years.
Related Reading: 4 easy ways to vent your bathroom and avoid mold
Know when and how to shut off the water main: Be ready: If a pipe suddenly bursts and there’s water everywhere, you’ll need to go where your main water shutoff is. In most situations, shutting off the water main stops the water flow. And don’t panic if you can’t find the water valve at first – it may be hidden in a corner.
Recommended Reading: How to find and shut off the main water shutoff valve
Check your sump pump: Common in homes with basements, a sump pump is everything you need to ensure that your house won’t flood after prolonged spells of rain and keep your house moisture-free. If you have one, inspect it periodically to make sure it’s in proper working order. Here’s all you need to know about the sump pump.
Keep your gutters clear of debris: While leaves are the most common culprit to cause blockages in gutters, don’t assume this is only an autumnal issue. You’ll also find moss and weeds causing major drainage issues at other times of year. Blocked drains contribute significantly to dampness. So when the water is running down the side of your house, and the gutter appears sagging, call in some professionals to clean the blocked gutter for you.
Look for moisture or mold around: The most significant signs to identify the presence of water where it shouldn’t be are flaking paint and wallpaper, as well as speckled marks or skirting on your walls. If your walls feel cold or you start feeling a musty smell, it’s time to add additional insulation. Also, check windows and skylights for condensation in the mornings. Its presence can indicate higher-than-average moisture levels in your home.
Prevent pipes from freezing: Frozen pipes are a headache if not addressed in time. Use a smart thermostat to maintain a minimum temperature of at least 65 degrees in your home — even if you’re planning on being away. To prevent freeze damage from occurring, warm water should circulate through pipes or turn off the water supply at the stopcock valve if you’re going to leave the property unoccupied for a long.
Install a water leak detective device: We’re grateful for technology. It makes life much easier (when it works!). Detection devices shut off the water supply when a leak happens. These can be a life-saver if you leave your property vacant for extended periods. Plus, they’re relatively inexpensive, so you won’t have to break the bank while purchasing them.
Related Reading: Best water leak detectors in 2022
Inspect the roof: Without water-resistant materials up top, your house is at risk of suffering water damage. If you aren’t paying attention, your roof might start letting water in when you least expect it. Haul out your best ladder and walk the roof of your house so you can take note of any shingles that may permit water to flow inside. Be sure you do this on a clear day, before inclement weather sets in. Better yet, hire somebody else to do this for you!
Here’s some advice on how to fix your leaking roof!
In Summary:
There’s no foolproof method to prevent water from ever seeping inside your house; however, if you’re monitoring your plumbing for leaks and keeping an eye on your pipes, you’re doing your part to prevent water damage.
If you do develop a serious issue with your plumbing, reach out to the experts at NIR Plumbing for assistance. Plumbing requires special tools, knowledge, and experience. And we’ve got them all!
