Water damage and how to prevent it

Water damage can come from a variety of different sources and is one of the number one problems that buyers run scared from when viewing a property. Broken water pipes, small leaks, big storms, leaky washing machines, wherever there is water, there is potential problems. Water can do more than just create mold and odor problems. If severe enough it can create potential structural issues, which is something you definitely want to avoid.

Whether you are currently preparing your home for sale or not,I strongly suggest having a dry free home both for future sale, and for the health and safety of your own family. Here are a few preventative measures to help you along the way.

– Hot water tanks are probably one of the main sources of water leaks that I have noticed when in homes. These water tanks can begin leaking over time as the older they get the bottoms begin to rust out a bit. One should install and overflow valve which will route the water outside, or into an appropriate floor drain.

– Washing machines and dishwashers. Basically anything in the home with a water supply feeding into it can and most likely will begin to leak at some point in time. Be sure to check all hoses and connections on a regular basis to avoid any serious issues. Even small drips can cause damage over time so when you see it beginning to happen, take care of it immediately.

– Toilets. First do NOT caulk around the bottom of your toilet. Sure it may feel like a rocking chair at times but caulking is not the way to fix that problem. Simply tighten the bowl with the two bolts on the bottom of the toilet, if still rocking use a shim under the bowl to steady it. If you caulk around the bowl and water begins leaking, you won’t notice it until it starts coming through your dining room or living room ceiling below, and then you have a handful of problems.

– Windows. Keep your eyes open around your window sills, the drywall directly under the window, and the edge of the framing. The forces of nature can and probably will get to your windows over time.

– Eavestroughs and gutters should be cleaned regularily to ensure they are operating effectively. Have all of your downspouts directing water as far away from your foundation as possible. Ideally 6ft at least. If you have a downspout going directly into the ground beside your foundation wall, during the next storm take a look and ensure that it isn’t gurgling and burping back up all that water. If it is it may be clogged and should be fixed.

– Ice makers. Check the hoses that feed water to them. Ensure that it is off or in no risk of pumping out ice for a week when you head out to Florida for vacation, only to come home to a new indoor pool.(It’s happened before)

Pipes can burst and leak inside walls and ceilings(especially with cold winter months coming) and may not be detected for sometime. Look for staining on ceilings and walls. Water leak detectors can be purchased and installed at relatively inexpensive costs and can be placed near water sources to avoid issues.

If you have any questions or concerns about water leakage or anything else in your home, please don’t hesitate to contact me.