It’s possible to prevent water damage in your home by winterizing your property and installing modern technology that notifies you in case of water damage so that you can take quick action for remediation. In this guide, we discuss some of these water damage prevention tips.
What causes water damage?
To prevent water damage in your home, you should first know its causes and sources. In most cases, water damage is caused by natural disasters such as floods and storms. Other causes of water damage include broken or damaged pipes, blocked drainage systems, leaking roofs, and inadequate maintenance of pipes, toilets, and drains. If you maintain these systems, you can minimize the risk of water damage. As for natural disasters, you cannot always prevent the water damage resulting from them. But you may be able to minimize its effects by taking swift action.
Tips to prevent water damage
If you’re still in the process of building your home, you can take certain steps to prevent water damage down the line. A good approach is to grade the land around your home properly so that water flows away from the building. You should also install an interior and exterior drainage system. French drains are particularly effective, as they direct water away from your house’s foundation and into suitable outlets. Here are some post-construction prevention tips.
Conduct regular inspections
Sometimes, water damage starts as a small issue you may not be aware of until you actively look for it. So, you should inspect your home regularly to identify any potential sources of water damage. Check your plumbing system, including the pipes and joints that connect to external systems. Also, check the drainage system and ensure that water is flowing away from your house.
Upgrade your equipment
Upgrade your equipment, such as the pipes, to prevent water damage. PVC and plastic pipes are typically quite reliable, but older homes may use metal or galvanized pipes. These materials are more likely to rust, leading to breaks and leaks. You should consult a professional when choosing the new material or equipment for your property.
Install water sensors and shutoff valves
Installing water sensors and shutoff valves in your home is a great way to prevent water damage. These systems will detect the water levels and pressure in your home, alerting you if there’s an abnormality. Modern technology has become quite efficient in detecting and preventing water damage. You can even connect these systems to your phone or mobile device. That allows you to control the sensor even when you’re on vacation.
Use dehumidifiers
A dehumidifier does more than just provide aesthetic value. It eliminates excess moisture from the air, preventing mold and mildew growth. As a result, you won’t have to deal with musty odors or health effects stemming from the presence of mold. If you or a family member has allergies, a dehumidifier can be a lifesaver. It can also help prevent other types of water damage, including those caused by condensation.
Keep gutters clear
Gutters are essential for diverting water away from your home. If they become clogged, the water will back up and eventually seep into your walls and other areas. So, you should clean the gutters every few months. If there has been a recent storm or you’re expecting one, clear the gutters before it arrives. It will reduce the risk of water damage significantly.
Use a water flow monitoring system
A water flow monitoring system is a great way to spot water damage in its early stages. It detects water flow and pressure changes in your plumbing and automatically shuts off the water supply in case of a leak.
Install a point of leak water alarm
You can install a point of leak alarm system under the sink, behind the washing machine, or in any other area where water damage is likely to occur. If a leak occurs, this system will detect it immediately. Since it connects to your phone, you’ll get an alert as soon as the leak is detected.
Shut off the water main
If you aren’t home for a long time, shut off the water main before leaving. Since no water will flow in the pipes in your absence, you won’t have to worry about water damage.
Insulate the pipes
Pipes tend to freeze and burst in winter. You can prevent this by using spray foam or pipe insulation. It will also keep your water bills lower if the pipes don’t have to work as hard to heat up the water.
Conclusion
To sum it up, there are many ways to prevent water damage in your home. If you follow the tips listed above, you can avoid the financial burden that comes with water damage restoration and repairs.