The first thing most people think of when referring to water damage is plumbing. While it is true that leaky pipes in your Meridian homes and commercial buildings are the most common cause for claims of water damage, we at ServiceMaster Action Cleaning - Laurel know there are many other factors that can cause water damage. Some common culprits of water damage are malfunctioning appliances, water pooling in areas such as basements and crawl spaces, and natural disasters or other weather-related problems such as rainfall.
Rooftops And Walls
While the rain definitely has positive effects on our lawns and gardens, it can cause water damage in our homes. Water from rainfall can leak into homes and buildings through gaps in the roof or walls, and cracks in the foundation. Large amounts of rainfall in short periods of time can cause pooling near foundations and overload rain gutters. In extreme cases, rainfall can even cause flooding. Routinely checking rooftops and walls for leaks and cracks can help minimize the risk of water damage from rain or other weather-related problems, as well as performing routine maintenance on these areas. Make sure rain gutters are leading water away from your home, and not allowing water to pool near the foundation.
Basements, Crawl Spaces & Attics
There are certain areas in homes and buildings that are more prone to pooling water. Basements, crawl spaces, attics, and any other dark or damp areas in the home are at an increased risk of water damage and, consequently, mold growth. Because these areas are not entered frequently, moisture can build up unnoticed which can lead to severe water damage. Mold can grow in dark, damp areas in as little as 24 hours, so by the time the water is discovered in these areas, the mold could already be a serious problem. Homes and buildings should be checked periodically to be sure that these areas are dry and moisture-free, and that there is no pooling water going unnoticed.
Appliances
Along with checking less trafficked areas, all appliances that use water should be checked regularly. Pipes that carry water to appliances can have rust build up inside them, which can lead to cracks, corrosion, and leaks. Water hoses that run to dishwashers and washing machines can weaken over time, causing major leaks and floods. Water heaters are one of the most common culprits of water damage from appliances, so it is important to make sure routine maintenance is performed on water heaters to prevent mineral buildup that causes leaks. As appliances age, keep a close eye on them and fix any pipes that are weakened or damaged.
Water damage can seem overwhelming, and there is a lot to check and be aware of. Maintenance and inspection are the two biggest factors that will help mitigate the risk of water damage. If you find yourself in a home or building that has suffered water damage, let ServiceMaster Action Cleaning - Laurel take care of the cleanup. Our professional team of licensed and insured technicians will make sure your property is cleaned up and restored as quickly and efficiently as possible.
