Common Causes for Water Damage in a Home
Whether slow or sudden, water damage can result in repairs worth thousands of dollars.
Water damage can happen at any time, unannounced, and create a wide range of issues, from flooding and extensive structural, electrical, and foundation damage to mold, foul odor, and pest infestations. Whether slow or sudden, water damage can result in repairs worth thousands of dollars.
A home can experience water damage due to varied reasons. Therefore, homeowners should understand the potential causes of water damage to protect their homes against its damaging effects and minimize the risk and inconvenience.
Inclement weather
Severe weather conditions like strong winds, snowstorms, thunderstorms, hail storms, and other natural disasters are very destructive and increase the risk of water damage to the property. Homes in flood-prone areas are more susceptible to flash flooding after a heavy downpour, leading to extensive water damage.
Plumbing and drain problems
Damage or faulty plumbing and drain issues are among the leading causes of water damage in a home. Plumbing problems like leaks, broken pipes, overflowing toilets, dripping sinks and faucets, blocked drains, and overflowing septic tanks can result in substantial damage. Poor installation, old pipes, or worn-out parts can cause issues with the plumbing system. Procure regular plumbing inspections and fix plumbing issues on time to avoid plumbing-related water damage.
Clogged gutter
Gutters clogged with leaves, twigs, branches, and other debris find it hard to drain rainwater away from the house. Blocked gutters cause water to overflow and run down the home’s side, damaging the roof, siding, and foundation. Clogged gutters can lead to stains, mold growth, and watermarks, weakening the home structure.
Faulty appliances
Every household has several water-using appliances like a dishwasher, garbage disposal, refrigerator, washing machine, and water heaters. Home appliances can leak and cause water damage if they malfunction or get damaged due to poor installation or worn-out parts. Faulty appliances can flood the house, or water can seep slowly, resulting in water damage eventually.
AC condensation
Poorly maintained ACs can develop issues with the drainage system. A clogged condensate drain line or damaged drain pan prevents the moisture from efficiently draining outside. The accumulated moisture results in leaks and can damage the floors and walls, and the resulting humidity leads to mold and mildew growth.
Sewer line backup
Heavy rains, storms, or blockages can prevent the sewer lines from carrying away the wastewater. It causes the sewage to back up into the home via toilets, sinks, and other drains. Sewage water contains various contaminants that create an unhygienic environment and pose a severe health risk. Hire a professional to handle sewage backup or flooding to ensure immediate cleanup and protect the home against sewer backup-related water damage.
Malfunctioning sprinkler system
A malfunctioning or improperly installed sprinkler or one set off accidentally can cause severe damage to the property. Also, home fire sprinklers are susceptible to freezing due to insufficient maintenance.
Safeguard against water damage
Even after all the precautions, protecting the home from water damage can be challenging. Whether water damage has occurred due to plumbing leaks, poor weather, or overflowing water, it is essential to address it immediately by seeking professional assistance. Call a local water damage restoration service as soon as possible to analyze the damage and create a restoration plan to get the home back to its original condition.
Clover Valley Home Service offers reliable service in plumbing, electrical, carpentry, baseboard and crown molding, sprinkler repair, fence repair or replacement, yard work and cleanup, and fire defense space preparation services. Our work is guaranteed. Call (916) 742-3141 today!
