What Causes Water Damage?

Water damage is one of those problems that every homeowner will have to deal with at least once in their life. For new homeowners or anyone that hasn’t faced it yet, it’s important to watch out for the most common causes of water damage to be prepared or avoid it altogether. Until it does happen to you, it may not seem like it belongs very high on the priority list of things you must attend to. However, thinking that way could cost you thousands. According to water damage statistics, it affects around 14,000 people in the U.S. alone daily. Knowing that you could potentially lose out millions of dollars due to water damage cleanup, it may be beneficial to take preventative measures to avoid water damage.

Pipes

Pipes can develop leaks and ultimately burst for several reasons, with corrosion being one of the most prevalent culprits. Factors like hard water and the chemicals that flow through pipes, coupled with improper fittings, can accelerate this process. If you spot any signs of corrosion in your home’s plumbing, it's crucial to act swiftly and replace those pipes to prevent further damage.

Another common factor is high water pressure. Each pipe has a maximum pressure threshold it can withstand, and exceeding this limit can lead to leaks. If your water pressure seems normal but you’re still experiencing issues, environmental changes or blockages might be to blame. It’s essential to take the right measures to reduce pressure and protect your plumbing from potential bursts.

Weather

Weather is unfortunately out of your hands, which usually means problems caused by it are also out of your hands. Heavy rains, melting snow, and general storms can cause a buildup of water along the foundation of your home, which can lead to water damage like a flooded basement.

Though you cannot control the weather, you can take preventative measures to minimize or eliminate the level of damage that occurs. Be sure that your gutters are regularly cleaned out, especially before a storm can hit. Gutters are a vital part of your home to steer water away from your home. Clogged gutters can direct water into your basement, resulting in floods and water leaking into the foundation.

Appliance Malfunctions

Maintenance of any water-using appliance is essential to avoid potential issues. Common culprits of water damage include air conditioners, hot water heaters, washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators. To prevent problems, schedule routine inspections, clean out pipes and lines, replace any worn-out parts, and consult professionals when necessary. It’s also crucial to ensure that water lines are properly directed—either outside, away from your home, or into the household sewer system. And before leaving for an extended vacation, don’t forget to shut off your water supply.

Water damage is a common issue, often resulting from these types of appliance malfunctions. Most homeowners encounter it at least once, making it a valuable learning experience. If it happens, act fast and call professionals like Crossroads Property Rescue to address the issue promptly. The faster you tackle water damage, the less likely it is to worsen. By responding quickly, you can ensure this remains a one-time event, avoiding long-term repercussions.