Did you know that water damage is one of the most common insurance claims filed by homeowners? Even the smallest leak, left unchecked, can cause costly structural damage to your home. That’s why it’s so important to identify and repair leaks as soon as they occur or, better still, prevent them entirely.
So what can you do to safeguard your home from water damage? Here are a few tips:
- Be aware of flood risks.
Many areas can be overwhelmed by sudden or high volumes of rain. But certain places are inherently more susceptible to flooding.
For safety’s sake, make sure that electrical switches, outlets and circuit breakers are at least 1 foot above the floor. HVAC systems and other major appliances can also be elevated. If you have a basement, consider getting a sump pump installed to move overflow.
- Weatherproof your home’s exterior.
Inspect your roof for loose, missing and broken shingles. Check the chimney for damaged bricks, mortar and flashing.
Clean out clogged gutters, and make sure that your downspouts are effectively dispersing water. If water seems to pool near the foundation, you may need to extend the downspouts or install a drain pipe. Grading the soil to redirect water away from your house can also help.
Replace weatherstripping and seals around exterior windows and doors. Use mortar or masonry caulk to fill cracks in brick walls and foundation. A fresh coat of paint can also help protect walls, windows and doors against the elements.
Consult a professional for necessary repairs.
- Maintain your indoor plumbing systems.
Regularly inspect all accessible pipes, drains and p-traps for potential leakage and repair as necessary. Consider replacing aging copper pipes with PEX. PEX piping won’t degrade as quickly and is less likely to freeze/burst during cold snaps.
If you have questions or need help with maintenance or repairs, reach out any time.
