It’s unlikely that residents of Sonoma County and other surrounding cities will soon forget the damage inflicted by the storms that deluged the area early in 2019. The devastation that some people experienced included water damage to homes that may still need attention. With the potential for the sometimes unpredictable storms of the summer season, it’s important to stay ahead of the game by taking preventive measures against more water damage to your home or business. It is equally important to realize that stormy weather is not the only possible threat for creating a water damage event in or around your home. Check out the rest of this article to learn several things that you can do to prevent your family from suffering a water damage loss.
When storms come calling
We know that we have no control over the weather, so when summer storms hit, we need to be prepared for any damage left in their wake. In the event of severe weather, your home’s drainage system can be problematic when left unattended. Water from a clogged gutter can weaken the foundation of your home and create entryways for storm waters. Damage to the outside of your home is also likely if water build up moves down the side of your house. Keeping your gutters cleaned on a regular basis can help ensure you have good drainage. You should also ensure that your downspout is turned outward to direct water away from your house. Test your sump pump during potentially heavy rain seasons and avoid planting vegetation in areas where outside pipes might be affected by runaway roots. Make sure to check your roof for leaks at least once each year, making any necessary repairs.
Protect the inside
Remember to perform regular checks for water leaks around inside pipes and know the location of your water main in case of emergency situations. Even if you plan to be away from home for an extended period, it’s a good idea to shut off the water while you are gone to prevent leaky faucets from leaving an unpleasant welcome when you return home! Check your appliances regularly for leaks and upgrade any old or leaky washing machine hoses before they have a chance to become a source of watery grief for you and your family. Another preemptive strike against water damage to your home is installing a water detector, which will sound an alarm when the sensors come into contact with moisture. Some of the best places to install such a device is around any water related appliances like water heaters or dishwashers. Checking the water pressure in your home is also important, as a setting that is too high can cause pipes and hoses to fail. Even with all of these measures, you should always pay close attention to your water bill. Watch out for significant increases from one month to the next, which can be a tell-tale sign that something is wrong.
Final thoughts
Water damage from any source can be devastating to your home and your wallet. Mold and other irritants can wreak havoc after a water damage event. Prevention is the best defense. If you don’t know how to perform all of the safety checks mentioned here, you don’t have to wait until the damage is done to have an expert perform them for you. If you have already suffered a loss due to stormy weather, poor drainage, or leaks in and around your home, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at Restoration Certified Specialists to assess the damage and help you restore your home to its previous splendor.
