Water damage is a significant and common cause of property-related losses. Even though water damage is not only a seasonal threat. Instead, it can happen any time of the year due to the neglect on the part of the house owner. Preparing your home for the arrival of the winter season is important, similarly, the house must not be neglected or left unattended during the summer months.
Unidentified leaks may result in vast damages. Here in this guide, we have mentioned a few steps to make certain that your home is secured and safeguarded against any probable water damage year-round. To learn more in detail, keep reading.
1. Know The Location Of The Stopcock
It is essential to be aware of the location of the main water supply. Ensure that not only you but every member of the house is aware of its location. Sometimes a severe leak, crack, or rupture may take just a few minutes to result in severe damage. Therefore, to be sure about the place and how to turn off the water supply in times of emergency is crucial.
2. Proactively Inspect Leaks
Sometimes the house owner may not notice the small leaks. These small leaks which may go undetected have the ability to pose severe damages if left untreated for a longer period. Therefore, make sure that you repair the minor leak as soon as possible. A minor leak can result in a loss of 57 gallons or 260 liters of water weekly. Therefore, inspect the underneath of the sink or appliances including the dishwasher or washing machine to make sure that there is no sanding water.
3. Keep Your Gutters Clear Of Debris
The main culprit behind most foundation damage is the blocked gutters. When you do not make sure to keep the exterior of the house clean. Then debris, dead leaves, branches, etc keeps on accumulating in the gutter and ultimately causing blockages. Blocked gutters are unable to push away the water in the rainy season which results in foundation damage.
In case of any sign of crack on the walls or sopping floor which might be an indication of a damaged foundation, get foundation repair instantly. Besides that, make certain that you keep your house exterior clean and clear the gutters of all the debris.
4. Check Your Sump Pump Works
For residential properties that have a basement, the installation of a sump pump makes sure that the basement doesn’t overflow with water during an extensive spell of rain. In case your house has a basement and a sump pump then make certain that it is serviced at least once a year.
5. Inspect Your Roof, Inside And Out
Monitor the inside of the attic to determine any signs of water leaking via the roof. Try to search for any damp spots on the joists or any tea-colored stains on the plaster. From the outside, monitor the roof for any signs of damage and guarantee the area around the chimney is intact.