Water damage is a serious issue for many house owners. This can also cost a lot if certain measures are not in place right from the start. But avoiding water damage to your property is not so hard and, mostly, it only takes regular maintenance.
If you take care of the possible problems, in the beginning, you will probably have one worry less during the rainfall season. So, if you are wondering what action to take, here are some suggestions that will be enough for the majority of potential problems.
1. Repair the leaks immediately
Even the smallest leaks are cause for alarms so don’t wait to deal with them or expect them to go away on their own. Once the water finds its way through the structure of your house it made a path to use in the future. There is a number of ways to prevent these leaks and they include a series of chores you should perform at least once a year.
First of all, check your roof since cracks in its foundation or tiling can allow water to enter inside the house. See that all your pipes are in order, as well as that washing and dishwashing machine work properly. If you notice that the ceiling beneath your bathroom is wet, this may mean you have to renovate to eliminate the water deposits underneath the tub.
2. Disconnect water hoses
Water hoses can cause quite a trouble in the winter if not packed and placed in storage, but rather left attached to the faucet. During sub-zero temperatures, the remaining water in the hose will freeze all the way back into the pipes and thus create an ice blockage. This will at the very least stop the water flow, and in worst case scenario your pipes may burst and cause serious damage to the house interior and foundation.
3. Minimize landscaping near utility pipes
Trees and shrubs have roots that go deep into the grounds and if planted near the piping system, they can cause damage over time. This is why you should minimize this type of vegetation near the house, and concentrate on flowers and succulents. Potted plants are also a nice solution to have tall greenery around the house, and it will also give you an opportunity to move them around and change the landscape.
There is a number of plants and dwarf fruit trees that will give color and style to the exterior of your house. Or you can simply use the combination of various evergreens and perennials to achieve layered landscape.
4. Think about water detection device
Thanks to modern technology, you can use a small electronic device that will detect the moisture levels. Additionally, this device will also detect any slow leaks in the house that usually go unnoticed before causing quite a mess. When it detects moisture, the device sounds an alarm which means you need to examine the house for leaks.
The best place to install it is near possible culprits like heaters, washing machines, and toilets. This device will also help you prevent the mold and mildew growth right from the start, which is a good way to protect your health.
5. Take care of the façade
Façade gets worn over time since it makes up for the majority of house exterior and is thus exposed to the elements. However, with house cement rendering you will take care of this problem and can even upgrade the design. This may be a big endeavor, but it’s also a satisfying one since you will refresh the curb appeal and architectural features of your home.
Consider changing the previous color and maybe even repainting window frames and doors to give your house a complete makeover. Clean the roof as well to give it back its old shine and check for damage at the same time. If it also requires repairs, see if you can repaint it and add to the overall façade improvements that way.
6. Keep your gutters unclogged
Clogged gutters and downspouts are serious business and can cause severe structural damage if not attended right away. If done regularly, it will take you ladders, spatula and time to take care of the debris that piled up there. The worst-case scenario involves replacing the gutters and dealing with dead animals that can easily get trapped in debris and die.
Lastly
Water damage on your property is easy to avoid if you perform regular maintenance and examine your home. Also, if you plan to renovate, include repairs to outdated fixtures and roof to prevent future issues with leaks. If prevented in time, the damage can be small, but if left unattended for a while, your house’s structure may be in serious trouble.
Author-Bio
Audrey Taylor was born in San Francisco and moved to Adelaide at the age of five. Marketer researcher and social media manager on hold, full – time mommy of a cheerful two-year-old. Graduated from Queensford college, worked in a couple of marketing agencies across Australia, eager to learn more about business and share her experiences. Traveled across Europe. Her hobbies include home decor, fashion, travel, music, old movies.
