Water damage in a home is one of the most expensive repairs to make. To make things worse, some homeowner insurance policies don’t cover certain causes of water damage, like a broken sump pump, for example. Check your homeowner’s insurance policy to find out the type and extent of your water damage coverage. More importantly, inspect your home’s water sources to prevent significant water damage.
Your roof can become a source of water leakage after heavy rain or snow, or after years of wear and tear. Inspect your roof for missing tiles or other damage that may eventually cause moisture to leak inside the home. Check your attic for evidence of moisture, mildew, or mold and repair those promptly to avoid water seeping into your home’s ceilings and walls.
Bathrooms are one of the key spots for water damage in a home. Overflowing toilets and backed-up drains from the sink, shower, or tub can cause water damage to the furnishings or floors. If you notice even a small leak or water trickle, try to fix it or call a plumber for assistance. When water leaks anywhere in the bathroom, take care of the problem right away to prevent a larger, more expensive repair.
Because you work with water quite a bit in the kitchen with an automatic icemaker, dishwasher, or sink, leaks and overflows are not uncommon. Dampness building up under the refrigerator or kitchen sink may not be noticed until it spills out over the floor. Examine these areas occasionally to catch any new or minor leaks and damage. Clean the dishwasher every couple of months using white vinegar mixed with clear water that is put through a rinse cycle, or check the manufacturer’s cleaning guidelines.
A washing machine can easily overflow when the load is unbalanced or extra large. Sometimes a connected stationary tub can get plugged and flood the floor. Using a mini-snake or a plunger, clear the stationary tub drain if it appears to be backing up while laundry is washing. Carefully balance each load of laundry to avoid overflows.
A basement flood can happen due to a break in the plumbing, a foundation crack, a leaky hot water tank, or a broken sump pump. Because basement flooding is not uncommon, it’s a good idea to check into basement waterproofing for your home. The cost is probably well worth the investment, as waterproofing could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars in water damage repair.
Don’t let water problems cause problems in your home. Check these areas frequently, and consider having your basement waterproofed.
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