Helpful Tips to Prevent Household Water Damage

9/28/2020 (Permalink)

Household water damage can be a very traumatic and costly experience that no one looks forward to experiencing.  However, outside of purchasing homeowner’s coverage very few people go any further to prevent potential water losses.  This is largely because most people rarely think about the potentiality of it occurring to them, thus they fail to plan.  The reality is that on average homeowners will experience one water loss during a twenty year time period.  Planning for prevention is a wise strategy to mitigate the impact of a water loss, if and when the time comes.  Here are some helpful, inexpensive and simple tips to employ to prevent or mitigate the impact of water damage to your home.

• Check your water heater for rust and leaks. Make sure the water pan isn’t about to overflow.  If it is have it serviced.
• Have your dishwater and HVAC unit serviced to make sure it is in proper working order.
• Cut the water off at the washing machine when not in use.
• Replace supply line hoses to the toilet every four to five years.
• Turn water off at toilet supplies when leaving the home for extended periods of time.
• Install a water monitoring sensor to the hot water tank.
• Allow faucets to dip during freezing conditions to prevent the lines from freezing.
• Keep the heat running even when away during freezing conditions.
• Make sure pipes are properly insulated.
• Have roof inspected for loose or missing shingles.
• Cut water off to the whole house when leaving for vacation during spring, summer or fall. This can be done by purchasing a simple tool at your local hardware store and turning the main valve off at the street.
• Purchase a moisture meter and check your walls and floors for excessive moisture periodically.

Although these tips are sound and easy ways to prevent or mitigate water damage, they are not guarantee that a loss won’t occur.  If you do experience a water loss and need help to mitigate the damage, call SERVPRO of South Durham and Orange County at (919) 596-1242.