5 Tips to Prevent Water damage in Your Home

The best way to protect your home from water damage is prevention. Most water damage risk comes from failures in the plumbing system. Structural issues, such as basement cracks or faulty roofing also make the home vulnerable. Problems can escape notice for long periods. By the time you discover the problem, you have extensive damage. Water damage repair in San Diego or anywhere else for the most part, costs more than avoiding the issue in the first place.

Plumbing Inspection

Inspect your system annually. While you are at it, make sure you know where the shut-off valves are; in an emergency, the knowledge could save your home from disaster. Make your family aware of them also. Check under the sinks for signs of leaks. Inspect connecting hoses on your appliances. The ice maker will have one; look at the dishwasher and washer. Hoses become brittle over time and because they connect to water supply lines, they are subject to pressure. Look for moisture under the water heater. The unit will normally last between five and seven years and should have the installation date on the label.

Ventilation

Taking showers, boiling water, and using steaming hot water to clean dishes, add humidity to your home. The moisture seems minor and unavoidable; however, it has the potential to damage your home. Consider installing vents in the kitchen and bathrooms.

Water Bill

Observe your water consumption. Keep a log of how much water you consume. If the bill spikes, you may have a leak. A bad flapper valve does no harm to the house, but it does cost you money. There may be a leaky faucet that slipped by you during the plumbing inspection.

Gutters

The only purpose for guttering is to carry water away from the home. Clean them regularly. Every season has the potential to damage guttering, so the minimum is twice a year. Make sure one of these happens after the leaves fall. While you are there, inspect for leaks.

Roof Inspection

Check for missing shingles; dry shingles become brittle and crack. Inspect the flashings; the caulking wears out over time and can let water into your home. Walk softly around the roof checking for warped places. Knowing the condition of your home goes a long way toward preventing a catastrophe. Teach your family what to do in case of an emergency. Educate yourself about fire prevention. During a fire your home will sustain some water damage. Download or create a maintenance and inspection schedule. Try scheduling inspections on dates that are easy to remember. For example, inspect the plumbing at daylight savings time.