Water damage is a common problem that is often hard to detect. Unfortunately, this issue can cause many issues, including severe structural damage. Below you’ll discover more about how water can hurt your home’s structure and a few ways to prevent it.
What is Water Damage?
Water damage is caused when water puddles around an area soaks into a material. Because it has no place to go, the water will sit. This will cause the area it’s in to deteriorate and could result in mold growth.
How Does Water Damage Affect Your Home’s Structure?
Water damage can affect your home’s structure in a few different ways. One is that it could cause metal pieces to buckle. If too much water coats these pieces, such as fasteners, it could wear them down and cause them to corrode.
Another major problem water damage can cause is warped or molded beams. This not only affects your home’s air quality, but can make it dangerous for you to walk in certain areas. Beams are designed to hold up your home. If they’re damaged, they won’t provide adequate support.
This issue could also make it difficult for you to open your windows and doors. If water soaks into them, it will cause the windows and doors to swell. This will make it harder for you to open and close them.
3 Ways to Prevent Water Damage
Keep Your Gutters Clean: One way to stop water damage is to keep your gutters clean. Blocked gutters can cause water to spill over the sides rather than through the downspout. Because the water is going in places it shouldn’t, it could sneak into invisible cracks causing it to spread through your home’s structure.
This is why it’s important to keep your gutters spotless. Ideally, do a thorough cleaning at least twice a year.
Watch Nearby Trees and Shrubs: Tree and shrub roots can quickly grow and spread. If these are planted near your home’s structure, you risk their roots spreading into nearby pipes. While they might not seem dangerous, they can be very strong and poke into the pipes causing leaks.
If you’re concerned that current trees or shrubs might be a problem, it might be beneficial to remove them. If you want to keep plants near the area, consider planting those with small roots.
Install a Water Detection Device: A water detection device constantly monitors the area it’s installed in for water leaks. You can usually connect these devices to your phone so you can stay updated on current conditions.
Water damage can result in numerous problems that could destroy your home’s structure.
If you’re concerned you might have water damage, RCS can help. Our water extraction service works to remove warped and corroding pieces and dry out areas with powerful fans to prevent further destruction.
