Water damage can be costly, and it may begin before you even notice the first signs of trouble. Water damage can cause mold and mildew in your walls and floors, which can create an abundance of health concerns for your family. It can also lead to costly repairs of various appliances and general home fixtures. To avoid the pricey consequences of water damage, here are Warner Service’s top 5 places you should check:
- The walls – The easiest place to spot the beginnings of water damage is on the walls and ceilings of your home. If water damage is present, there will most likely be water stains, especially around the windows and doorframes, and/or cracks in the drywall. If a stain looks unusual (discolored to brown, black or gray, raised texture), has a swollen appearance or is soft to the touch, contact a professional immediately.
- The pipes – To avoid water damage, consistently check the pipes in your kitchen (especially the dishwasher and ice maker), bathrooms, laundry room (specifically washing machines) and basement for corrosion, leaks and water stains. Pay special attention to where the pipes connect in your home and the location of caulking around the bathroom fixtures, including toilets, sinks, showers and tubs. Missing or loose caulking and grout could be signs of leaking water. This seepage can also quickly cause mold and rust, so double check your water heater and tank for wet spots on the floor.
- The floor – Water damage is very easy to spot on the floor. Look for any warping or buckling of the material, especially in the basement. If your home has wood flooring, look for bright white or dark stains. If your home has carpeting, keep it dry and clean. A damp carpet that smells of mold could cause water damage and health problems. To avoid this, consider installing floor pans under your appliances to help prevent damages from small, slow and undetected leaks.
- The basement and attic – If your basement or attic smells odd check for mold and mildew around the area, especially the valley where the roof meets. While you are inspecting those areas, check for wall cracks, floor stains, rust and dampness in the insulation. If you live in a colder and/or rainier climate, perform routine checks for water damage from melting snow or ice and rain.
- The exterior – Check the roof for damaged flashing and missing, cracked or curled shingles. There should also be no standing water anywhere outside your home. This could be caused by puddles, leaky rain gutters or hoses, poor drainage, or short gutter spouts. Invest in a sump pump system or water flow monitoring system, and perform routine maintenance on these outdoor appliances to avoid indoor water damage.
At the first signs of water damage, call a professional immediately. To avoid a hefty repair bill, invest in nifty prevention care, such as sump pump systems, or simply shut off the water supply when your family is away for an extended period of time. You can also install an emergency pressure relief valve in your plumbing system or gutter guards for your outdoor troubles. For any questions or concerns or to make an appointment, contact Warner Service today.