You’re well aware that water is an essential element of life. But only because you need water to live, doesn’t mean your home needs it as well. In fact, water everywhere in or around your house can be a critical issue with costly consequences. You may believe that a little bit of water is no big thing. While a little spill isn’t anything to worry about, a burst water pipe, flooded basement, or leaky roof can cost you a fortune. How much? Here are a couple of things you should understand:
Factors that contribute to price include the dimensions of the basement, the severity of the flooding, and also the length of time that the basement was flooded.
A burst water heater will cost at least $5,000 to mend and can cost up to $70,000 in damages. Homeowners or flood insurance will often cover water damage expenses but not always the full amount (and it depends upon the cause too).
What do you do to safeguard your house and prevent problems in the first place? With a few careful additions, steps, and prevention methods, many homeowners may all but eliminate the danger of water damage ruining your house.
BE AWARE, STAY INFORMED
One of the most crucial things you can do to prevent water damage and help you save money is to be conscious of your house environment and remain informed about what is around you. What exactly does this mean? Here are a couple of things you should understand:
- Know how old your home is, what the pipes are made of, and what type of problems usually bothers houses just like yours. If you live in an older home it is important to know what the pipes are made of (you can get that out by calling plumbing assistance, asking the previous homeowner, or hiring a contractor). You will find a variety of pipe materials used in new and old houses, and some are more prone to leaks than many others.
- Be conscious of your own climate. Do you live someplace cold and snowy? If that’s the case, you might need to insulate your plumbing throughout the winter. Without a bit of insulating material, exposed pipes can freeze, crack, and burst. As stated previously, a burst pipe can cost tens of thousands of dollars to repair. But don’t believe the sole pipes you need to be concerned about are those that are exposed; even pipes underneath your house, in your garage, or even near outer walls may freeze. Luckily, all it requires is a little foam insulation to prevent problems.
- Being conscious of the weather issues are typical in your region. Weather is perhaps the biggest factor you need to look at when preventing water damage. Make sure you understand what to anticipate and take certain steps to guard your property.
- Look at your water bill each month and listen to unusual fluctuations. If you find you’re paying more than you should, it may indicate a leak. Any damage to your roof may result in serious problems during the remainder of your home. If you can’t see your roof or are incapable of climbing on it, then call a roofing company for assistance.
SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
Damaged sprinkler systems are a significant source of the yard and basement floods throughout the country. It is common for sprinklers to wear out over time and with frequent use, eventually resulting in leaks. And in areas that drop below freezing throughout the winter, broken or burst pipes are much more prevalent. If your city shuts off the water to your sprinkler systems each fall, be sure to know when they’ll turn the water back on. As soon as you know when the water will be turned on in the spring, spend a couple of days after they do this seeing your lawn for any soggy, moist, or unusually spongy places. If you become aware of any surplus water, then you will need to fix the damage quickly. If the primary water line does not flow, turn your sprinkler system on and watch for the very same signs of damage. If the sprinklers seem to be working badly or with reduced strain there could be a leak somewhere in the system.
FIXING THE DAMAGE
We can help you mend and fix whatever may be causing water damage through your property. However, we know that life occurs and some issues simply can’t be stopped. If that’s true, you need to act fast to save your home and possessions. The very first thing you have to do if you have a leak or to prevent more water damage is to turn off the water throughout your house. If the flooding is caused by Mother Nature, consider placing sandbags and other dams around your house as an alternative. Once the water is away (or so the flow is redirected) make sure that you turn the power off during your home. It is very easy to electrocute yourself through a flood if you keep the power on. Following the electricity and water are away, remove all of your belongings and furniture as swiftly as possible. You will have to dry and repair electronics and furniture, but a lot of it can be uninstalled if you act quickly. In the event the water subsides or dries by itself, you’ll need to wash any wet surfaces to prevent mold, mildew, and bacteria from growing. Avoid using direct or high heat, as that can ruin fabrics and warp most substances. Once you’ve done your best and when there is still water in your house, it’s time to call for expert assistance. Like we said before, we’re ready with the tools and expertise you need, when you want us, even if you can’t do it all on your own.
Maintaining your home safe from water damage from the interior can also be critical. Have a look at how to protect your home from water damage. Has your house suffered damages after a recent storm? Discover how to handle storm and water damage. For specialist water damage mold or repair removal service, speak to your local PuroClean office or visit them for more information.
