As a homeowner, there is a lot to consider when it comes to keeping your home safe for both you and your family. For instance, installing smoke alarms will help to keep you safe in the event of a fire, and it could also mean that damage to your property is minimized. But what about water damage though? Did you know that water damage is one of the more common reasons for insurance claims? The reality is that there are many ways that water damage can occur on a property. But the good news is that there are lots of ways to prevent this from happening.
Check the Gutter Drainage System
According to the folk at Global Gutter Systems, an improper rain gutter installation can lead to a host of problems when it comes to drainage and water damage to property. For example, a downspout that is not directing the water into a drain could result in water damage in and around the property’s foundations. Or an incorrectly pitched gutter system could cause water to remain standing in the gutters instead of flowing to the downspout. In a heavy downpour, could then cause water to overflow the gutters, potentially damaging the fascia boards or the sidings.
Check for Leaks
It is necessary to keep an eye on the plumbing system in your home and to regularly check for leaks in pipes and faucets. With water entering the home in various locations (kitchen, bathrooms, etc.), it makes sense to check that there are no leaks from damaged pipes or broken washers.
Make sure you know where the shut-off valve is too so that you can quickly turn off the water supply to your home in the event of an emergency. Additionally, why not install a pressure release valve in the plumbing system to help prevent an increase in pressure that could occur if the water in the pipes freezes? This should prevent pipes from bursting and causing major damage.
Install a Leak Detection Device
If you are going to be away for any amount of time (especially over the winter) and are worried about the possibility of a leak in the pipes, one thing to consider is installing a leak detection system. These systems are typically installed at the water’s point of entry into the home and are designed to cut the flow of water to the property should any abnormal water behavior be detected. For example, if a faucet is left running for too long or a pipe behind a wall bursts, the leak detection system will be able to tell and will cut off the water supply to the home. Some of the more advanced systems can be connected to an app on a smart device, which will alert you to a problem straight away.
Carry Out Exterior Repairs
Much of the water damage caused to property comes from the outside. It is important therefore to make any repairs to the exterior of the home that could be a hotspot for potential damage. For example, it is important to seal the windows and doors to prevent water from entering the home that way. Moreover, check the roof to ensure that there are no missing tiles or shingles as this could result in mold in the attic space.
In Summary
Water damage is a big problem in homes, but with some maintenance and minor repair work it is preventable. It is important that you inspect various areas of the home for potential areas where water could be a problem, such as around pipes and faucets and the gutter drainage system.