While it may be essential to life, water still manages to worsen the lives of many each year. Experts estimate that flood damage has cost the United States $75 billion over the past three decades, and with climate change, those numbers will only grow higher.
Aside from flooding, everything from your pipes to your appliances can cause home water damage. This can ruin your property, and in some cases, put your life in danger.
So what can you do to mitigate these risks?
Keep reading to learn about five ways you can prevent home water damage from occurring.
1. Empty Your Roof Gutters
Many people believe that water damage and flooding start at the ground, but the truth is that it often starts at your roof.
If your gutters are full of debris, water won’t be able to escape downward. It can then damage your roof, leak down to your foundation, or seep into your basement.
Make sure to clear your gutters often of everything from leaves to bird nests and branches.
2. Don’t Let Your Pipes Freeze
Pipes and cold temperatures don’t go well with one another. This is because if your pipes get too cold, they can freeze. This can then cause water to release from your floors, ceilings, and walls.
Make sure to drain outdoor faucets and hoses before winter comes, as well as maintain a steady temperature inside your house.
3. Be Mindful as You Landscape
Trees and plants are beautiful, but some of them can contribute to flooding. The roots of trees like weeping willows can invade your drainage system and pipes. Keep them away from your water lines.
Certain areas are also more prone to flooding. Check out this article to get a better understanding of flood zones.
4. Check Your Appliances
Make sure you don’t ignore potential problems inside your house as well. Dishwashers, washing machines, and other large appliances can all break down and leak.
Regular maintenance and inspection can help detect and resolve any problems, like corrosion or cracking. You’ll also want to change the hoses that these appliances use every several years.
5. Don’t Let Your Pipes Deteriorate
Aside from ensuring that they don’t freeze in the winter, make sure to look after your pipes throughout the rest of the year as well.
Avoid doing things like pouring grease into them, and make sure to investigate any leaks or changes in humidity in your home. If you don’t resolve pipe and plumbing issues early on, they can deteriorate and lead to more severe flooding.
Protect Yourself Against Home Water Damage
Whether you live in a flood zone or the Arizona desert, home water damage caused by flooding can be disastrous. To ensure that you and your property stay safe, make sure to follow the five tips laid out in this guide.
Do you now have a better idea of how to prevent flooding and other types of water damage? If you do, spend some time browsing through our other posts. You’ll find tons of other great guides and tips.