Common Causes Of Water Damage

As spring gets closer and closer, many homeowners get the urge to clean up their homes. There are many spring-cleaning items to choose from, but one that homeowners do not want to have to deal with is water damage cleanup. 

Water Damage Cleanup Evans

Water damage is common, especially during season changes when more rain is expected. Rumsey Construction has seen it all when it comes to water damage, so here are 5 of the most common causes of water damage cleanup homeowners in Evans should be looking for: 

Plumbing Issues

Burst pipes, leaking faucets, and malfunctioning appliances (such as water heaters and washing machines) can cause water damage. To help prevent needing water damage cleanup from plumbing problems, we suggest the following:

1. Inspect and maintain your plumbing system regularly, including pipes, faucets, and appliances.
2. Repair leaks and drips as soon as they are detected.
3. Keep drains and toilets clean and clear, so clogs do not occur.
4. Follow proper maintenance and usage instructions on all household appliances that use water.

Roof Leaks

A leaky roof can cause water damage to attics, walls, ceilings, and floors, particularly during heavy spring rain. You can reduce the risk of requiring water damage cleanup from roof leaks by:

1. Inspecting your roof regularly and repairing any damage or leaks promptly
2. Removing debris and cleaning gutters and downspouts to prevent water from backing up and causing damage
3. Calling a professional to perform a roof inspection and maintenance at least once a year at the change of the season from winter to spring

Flooding

Heavy rainfall, flash floods, and rising water levels in nearby bodies of water can cause extensive water damage to homes. While we cannot control the weather, we can take the following precautions to prepare against water damage from flooding:

1. Be aware of the flood risk in your area and take appropriate precautions, such as elevating your home, grading the ground around your foundation, or installing flood barriers if necessary.
2. Keep valuable items and electronics off the ground in case of a flood.
3. Consider purchasing flood insurance if you live in a high-risk area.

HVAC Problems

Malfunctioning air conditioning units, humidifiers, and dehumidifiers can lead to water damage cleanup if they produce excess moisture. Here are some things you can do to keep your HVAC system from causing water damage in your home:

1. Have your HVAC system inspected and maintained by a professional regularly, or at least according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
2. Make sure the drainage system is working properly, so any buildup does not obstruct that excess water.

Poor Ventilation

Poor ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens can lead to moisture buildup, which can cause water damage and mold growth over time. Water damage caused by poor ventilation often goes unnoticed until the problem has become severe, resulting in the extensive cleanup. To be sure that excess moisture is adequately being removed from your home, you should:

1. Make sure that you have working vents in the bathroom and above the stovetop.
2. Clean out these vents at least once a year to ensure that dust and debris are not blocking airflow.
3. Call a specialist if you feel the vents are not adequately removing moisture from the air so they can be inspected.

While we are all ready for spring, we want to be sure that you are also ready to identify and respond to water damage if it does happen in your home. If you find yourself in need of water damage cleanup, be sure to call the experts at Rumsey Construction right away.