Preventing Water Damage to Your Home

As a homeowner, there are few occurrences that can be as devastating as having water damage to your home.  Water damage can be caused from a pipe bursting, a toilet overflowing, or dishwasher/washing machine error which can cost in the hundreds to even thousands of dollars.  The most common rooms that water damage occurs in are the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room as each has a great deal of plumbing.  The effects of water damage can be seen in flooring, ceilings, and personal property.  As we deal with Ohio home insurance and water damage often, the best solution is always prevention.  By learning a few preventative techniques you’ll be well equipped to protect your home from the devastation of water damage.

Inspect the Roof

Periodically inspecting your roof to check for missing or broken shingles, clogged gutters, and debris can prevent water damage.  With your roof being constantly exposed to the elements, a small leak can turn into a great deal of damage in your home. 

Check All Household Appliances

Switching all hoses to stainless steel can help appliances such as the washing machine, the dryer, the dishwasher, the refrigerator, air conditioning systems, and water heaters.  Other types of hoses can crack leading to water leaks.

Check All Plumbing

Be sure to check all plumbing includes sinks, showers, bathtubs, and toilets.  Make it a habit to check under kitchen sinks and bathroom sinks for any sign of leaking.  Check the areas around showers and bathtubs for cracks, holes, and other openings where water might leak. Seal these areas when able.

Check All Doors and Windows

Be sure that doors and windows aren’t letting too much air or rain and are properly installed.   Ensure that all seals are closed tight so that water is not able to seep through them.

Install Water Alarms 

Consider investing in inexpensive water alarms that give off a warning sound when it senses moisture. These are very effective when placed in an area with high water damage risk such as under sinks or in the bathroom.

Sump Pumps and Battery Backups

If you already have a sump pump in a basement, it’s smart to invest in a battery back up along with a second sump pump.  This will provide you peace of mind in the event of a power outage or if a primary pump malfunctions.