Water damage is not always easy to recognize. Leaky pipes can be hidden in hard-to-reach places and any visible mold can be an indication of a larger problem. However, there are many ways to reduce your chances of needing water damage cleanup in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area. Consider adding these tips to your home maintenance schedule.
What to Lookout to Prevent Water Damage
For Outside:
- Roof & Gutters
Replace missing shingles and patch any cracks or gaps you find. Repairing these damages is extremely important to prevent rainwater from making its way inside your home. While you’re at it, remove leaves, sticks, and other debris from your gutters. Leaving gutters clogged can cause them to leak or overflow.
- Plants
Try not to plant large trees or anything with invasive roots close to pipes. Remove and replant existing vegetation that surrounds your water system. Even if they aren’t damaging water pipes yet, they could in the future.
- Windows & doors
Ensure windows & doors are weatherproofed and shut firmly. Also, repair damaged caulking or stucco you find in the process. Any opening can allow rain or moisture to find its way into your home.
- Sprinkler system
Observe your sprinkler system in action. Clean or replace sprinkler heads that are behaving irregularly. A damaged sprinkler system can cause water build-up and possibly flooding.
For Inside:
- Sump Pump
Install a sump pump to clear unwanted water from your home. Usually, these are located in the basement to ensure the lowest spaces in your homestay are dry. If you already have one, inspect the pit around the sump pump for anything that may have fallen in. Debris can cause malfunction. Perform a test by adding some water to the pit and watching how your sump pump handles it.
- Appliances
Refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines all have the ability to cause interior water damage. In case of emergency, know where the water supply shut-off is located. It can also be useful to be familiar with the emergency water recovery process so you know what to expect.
- Water Pressure
If your water pressure is too high, it can add unnecessary pressure to your water pipes that can cause damage over time. Use a water pressure regulator and adjust if needed.
- Stay alert
The best way to prevent water damage is to stay alert. Monitor your water bill. If it skyrockets for seemingly no reason, check for leaks. Be on the lookout for water stains and mold. These are sure signs that water damage is happening.
We hope these tips keep your home dry and damage-free. If you find water damage in the Fort Worth, Texas area day or night, ServiceMaster TEAM can help. We provide 24-hour emergency restoration services. The sooner you act, the more damage we can prevent. Contact us for personalized recovery plans and high-quality customer service that will get your life back to normal as soon as possible.
© Photo Credits: Andrey Popov
