Protect Your Property With These Tips From The Water Damage Restoration Experts

Every day our homes in Willoughby are at risk of water damage from multiple different sources. Because water damage can happen at any time and from a number of causes, routine maintenance and inspection of your home can help decrease the risk of potential water damage and restoration costs.

Water Damage Restoration In Willoughby

The following list is a great resource for ways that homeowners can help prevent water damage to their property.

Check water drainage.

Water is the leading culprit of weakened foundations. Poor drainage around your home can weaken the foundation, cause cracks and uneven settling, and allow water to enter your home. You should clean your rain gutters regularly and clear any blockages. Clogged gutters will cause water to build up and pool around your home. If your gutters are continually getting clogged or build-up, you can install gutter guards to keep water flowing. Downspouts should direct water at least 5-10 feet away from your home to keep it from pooling around the foundation. It is also a good idea to slope your yard away from your home's foundation. A slope will help direct water away from your home and prevent pooling.

Inspect appliance hoses and faucets.

Hoses leading to water heaters, dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators can erode and deteriorate over time. Routine inspection of the integrity of these hoses will ensure that no leaks or floods will occur from a faulty water hose. Immediately replace any hoses that have cracks or leaks. It is also recommended that you replace these hoses every 3 years to avoid potential damage. Faucets and connections to water sources in the home should be checked regularly also. Faucets that do not turn easily or are not able to seal completely to other connections should be fixed to prevent leaking.

Test your sump pump.

Sump pumps should be checked at least once a year, especially before storms and rainy seasons. If your sump pump is not working properly, water can back up and flood into your home. It is simple to check; just slowly fill the sump pump with water and watch the water level line. As the water rises, it should trigger the pump to turn on, and the water level should begin to fall. If you do not have a backup pump, consider installing one as a safety net if your sump pump gets overwhelmed or fails.

Know where the main water valve is.

Water from a damaged pipe can burst into your home very quickly. In instances where water is rushing in, it is important to know where your water shut-off valve is located. Being able to quickly locate and shut off your main water supply can make a huge difference in the extent of the water damage to your home. As another safety precaution, you could install an emergency pressure release valve in your plumbing system. This will protect against increased pressure build-up in pipes and can influence the flow of water inside your home.

Shut off the water supply when away from your home.

If you are planning on being away from your home for an extended period of time, you should shut off the water supply to your home. Water cannot damage your home if it is not flowing into it. Water damage increases in severity and cost the longer it goes unnoticed and untreated. If water damage were to occur while you were away, it could become a detrimental problem by the time you return home. It is also important to never leave your home while the dishwasher or washing machine is running. Leaks from these appliances are very common and can be handled quickly if they are caught quickly. Doing this can also save you from costly water damage restoration further down the road.

Even the most prepared homes can still fall victim to water damage. If you find yourself in need of water damage restoration, call Pine Ridge Restoration. We can handle any water damage problem from any source and are ready to dispatch our team of water damage restoration experts at a moment's notice.