Common Causes of Water Damage

Water damage is one of the most difficult problems to deal with as a homeowner. Whether it's a burst pipe, leaky HVAC system, or clogged gutters, water damage can upend your day and may leave you with a costly repair bill. That said, ignoring water damage can lead to even larger and more expensive problems. This article will take a look at some of the most common causes of water damage and why it's important to hire a water damage mitigation contractor to address it quickly.

Weather-wise, summer is usually wonderful. But the changing pressure systems that move across the country can cause some serious thunderstorms. These thunderstorms can bring immense volumes of rain in a very short period of time. Even if you have the best drainage in the world, sometimes Mother Nature is just too strong.

Still, having a high-quality drainage system in place will help prevent the worst issues. Make sure your gutters are cleaned out every couple of months. It also isn't a bad idea to inspect them if a large storm is in the forecast. Storm drains and proper grading around your property can also save your basement from flooding.

Leaks in the plumbing are the most common cause of water damage. There are plenty of things that cause a plumbing leak. The pipes can corrode over time, improperly installed joints may give out sooner than you hope, and extreme temperature fluctuations can expand and contract the pipes, leading to cracks or even a full burst. Not only that, but clogs in the drains can put pressure on one part of the pipe and compromise it.

It's important to have a plumber inspect your home's system regularly. On top of that, make sure to avoid putting chemicals, grease, oils, hair, and any other organic materials into your drainage system that don't belong there. If you spot water damage in your walls or under your sink, call a water damage mitigation service along with the plumber.

Your air conditioner can be a source of leaks and may also cause water damage from excessive condensation. When functioning properly, the condensation is collected from condenser coils into drain pans, and then the water is carried away through drain lines. If these lines are clogged, the water can overflow from the drain pan. Additionally, water may leak from the air ducts throughout the walls and ceilings of your home. Speak with an HVAC contractor to make sure your AC is working properly, and get a water damage mitigation specialist to handle any damage.

Outside of your plumbing and HVAC system, there are plenty of appliances with a water supply that can malfunction and cause water damage. The dishwasher, washing machine, and freezer all need to be properly maintained to prevent any issues. If your appliances and the lines they are connected to are getting old, consider replacing them before a pipe bursts and you need to pay for water damage mitigation, too. A sign that it's time to replace your current appliances is if they start having chronic issues. Perhaps your water heater is not heating water. Maybe your dishwasher or washing machines are making new noises you never noticed before. Don't wait for the problem to get bigger! Get a replacement as soon as possible.

Now that we know a few of the causes, some may be wondering why water damage is such a bad thing to begin with. While water is necessary for many aspects of our everyday lives, whether for consumption or bathing and getting rid of waste, it needs to be kept to predetermined locations. If it starts to seep into flooring, walls, ceilings, or other areas of the home, there can be significant issues, including:

• Structural Damage: Most homes are constructed from wooden frames and concrete foundations. Both of these materials are vulnerable to serious damage if they experience excessive exposure to water. Wood will rot and collapse, while concrete will crack and shift, compromising the structural integrity of the home and putting you and your family in harm's way.
• Mold Growth: Mold and mildew are harmful to human health and often an eyesore, too. According to Comfy Living, mold grows within 24-48 hours of water damage. If you see discolored spots in damp areas, mold remediation will get rid of the issue and protect your health.
• Electrical Problems: If you are facing severe water damage, such as a flooded home or basement, shut off the electricity immediately. Pipes are located in the walls, but so is the electrical wiring for your home. Leaks can wreak havoc on your electricity and pose a significant risk to you and your family.

No matter the cause of your water damage, you can count on the water damage mitigation specialists at Magna Dry Cleaning and Restoration to fix the damage and make your home look like new. Call us today or visit our website for more information.