Even though there is no way to totally prevent water damage in your Augusta home, there are certain things you can do to help prevent major water damage cleanup and address problems before they become significant issues.
Augusta Water Damage Cleanup
Our water damage cleanup experts at Rumsey Construction and Restoration have put together a list of precautionary measures you can take in your home that may reduce the risk of water damage from occurring.
- Verify that pipe joints and connections are tight and that no water is dripping from joints by inspecting them regularly. A common place for water damage to occur and go unnoticed is under sinks and cabinets, so be sure to check those pipes on a regular basis.
- To keep track of the water pressure entering your home and passing through your pipes, install a water pressure gauge. By using a water pressure gauge, you can make sure the pressure in your pipes stays between 60 and 70 psi. Increased water pressure inside pipes can cause leaks and breaks and threatens the integrity of your plumbing system.
- Debris should be removed from drains in sinks, bathtubs, showers, and dishwashers to prevent buildup that can cause obstructions. Drain blockages allow water to back up and flood your home, requiring water damage cleanup. Ensuring that water is able to flow freely through drains is vital to reduce the risk of water overflow and backup.
- Plan regular maintenance checks on your water heater in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. When too much sediment accumulates inside your water heater tank, the tank may burst or leak, letting water spill out into your home.
- Ensure that the pressure gauge on the tank of your water heater is within a safe range. Reduce the heat setting slightly if you notice the pressure is too high.
- At least twice a year you should inspect the hoses that feed water to your washing machine. The flow of water may occasionally be impeded by hoses that are twisted or forced up against equipment or walls. The connectors can loosen with use and over-tie, which makes it possible for water to seep out around them. To eliminate any cracks or leaks brought on by aging and use, it is good practice to change these hoses every three to five years.
- Make sure that the caulking and sealing around sinks, toilets, tubs, showers, and windows are watertight and free from cracks, peeling, or separation. To stop water seepage, each of these spaces needs to be adequately sealed. Caulk can be simply reapplied to spots that have peeled or torn away.
Keep an eye out for any signs of mold growth, peeling or bubbling paint, musty odors, or warped floorboards, as these are all strong indicators that there is water damage present. If you notice any signs of water damage or suspect that you need water damage cleanup, call for an inspection right away. Mold should not be ignored, so be sure to act fast if you find mold growing in your home.
