Inspecting Your Home or Business for Water Damage

by: Ashley Ford

Most home or business owners assume that water damage prevention is much more difficult than it really is. Fortunately, all it really takes is regular inspections and maintenance of both the exterior and interior of a home or business to greatly reduce any chances of costly water damage. For additional help or information with water damage prevention, any qualified contractor or local water utility personnel should be able to provide you with assistance.

For the Exterior

• A professional roofing contractor should be employed to repair any and all deteriorated or damaged roofing materials.

• Soffits, siding, trim or flash should be checked for deterioration.

• Eaves, gutters, and downspouts should be free of debris to allow water to drain freely. They should also point away from your home or business’s foundation.

• Inspect attic insulation and ventilation to help extend the life of your roof.

• Basements or crawl spaces should be inspected for any signs of dampness or stagnant water. This could be a sign of a plumbing leak or improper damage.

• Keep water pipes that are exposed to freezing temperatures or drafts well insulated to reduce the possibility of leaks.

• Disconnect outside hose connections during the fall and winter to avoid burst pipes due to freezing.

For the Interior

• Check your home or business thoroughly for any signs of leaks on ceilings, walls, floors and near appliances that use water.

• Double check water hose connections that run to washing machines, icemakers, dishwashers, and other appliances that might use water.

• Sinks, showers and tubs should be re-caulked or re-grouted to prevent moisture from seeping into tight spaces and creating mold.

• Washing machine hoses should be checked and replaced regularly, especially when there are signs of cracking, bulging or other deterioration.

• All water oriented appliances and equipment should be inspected and well maintained.

• Contain small hot water heater leaks by placing small pans under the leak area to catch water.

It’s important to stay on top of home or business maintenance when it comes to preventing costly water damage. Water damage can lead to the need of mold remediation and even general construction. Contacting a professional like Able Restoration can help you prevent water damage in your home or business. Able Restoration has years of experience in the water damage and restoration field and can help any home or business owner protect their home from water damage.