Understanding how to prevent water damage is key to protecting your home and avoiding costly repairs. Though we often think of water damage as a result of storms and hurricanes, it can just as easily happen in less obvious ways, like a frozen pipe bursting in the winter, a slow leak while you’re away on vacation, or even during a weekend trip. Water damage never chooses the right moment to occur, but fortunately, there are ways to minimize this risk greatly with just a few steps, and your house can be safe from sudden disasters.
Below are practical and realistic tips that anyone who owns a home can implement to do their best to avoid water damage.
How to Prevent Water Damage
Only Run Appliances When You’re at Home – and Awake
Appliances such as a washing machine and dishwasher are a convenience, but if anything goes wrong, they quickly become major sources of leaks. Running them only when you’re home and awake makes it easier to notice leaks or overflows and to quickly take action. This can save you from extensive water damage and costly repairs.
Schedule Routine Plumbing Inspections
Annual plumbing inspections are one of the best ways to protect against water damage. A certified plumber is able to expose hidden leaks, corroded pipes, or other defects before they become major disasters. Regular investments in maintenance will help keep your plumbing system in peak condition and diminish the risk of unexpected events.
Check for Leaks
The earlier you detect a leak, the better you may be able to prevent any water damage. Regular checks should be made under sinks, around faucets, and close to appliances that use water for signs of dripping, dampness, or musty odors. If you find a problem, take immediate action before things get worse.
Maintain Appliances
Another critical move toward water damage prevention is keeping all of your water-using appliances in good condition. Hoses and connections to washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators should be checked for wear and tear. Clean out lint traps and ensure proper drainage so as not to allow leaks or flooding.
Insulate Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the most common causes of water damage in colder climates. Insulating exposed pipes helps prevent them from freezing and bursting during winter. Give attention to pipes in basements, attics, and exterior walls, as these areas are most vulnerable. Pipe insulation is a small investment that can prevent significant damage.
Install Water/Leak Detectors
Water leak detectors are a new frontier in water damage prevention. These small, inexpensive units can be set up near appliances, water heaters, or under sinks-in places where leaks could happen. The moment they detect water, they send notifications to your phone or an alarm to act quickly. Early detection can prevent those minor leaks from turning into pricey disasters.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters and downspouts are one of the leading causes of water damage. The system can’t function when water has no way to flow. Instead, it overflows and begins to pool near your home’s foundation, causing potential cracks and flooding. Cleaning out your gutters is usually done at least twice a year, more so with overhanging trees. Make sure downspouts are directed away from your home to keep water from seeping into your basement or crawlspace.
Landscape Wisely
Landscaping your yard can go a long way in preventing water damage. Grade your yard to make water run off away from the foundation of your home. Refrain from planting trees or shrubs with invasive roots near your house’s foundation or underground pipes, as their roots will eventually tear them up. Gravel or mulch around your home can absorb extra water and reduce runoff.
Emergency Shut-Off Valves
Knowing how to shut off the water supply in an emergency can spare your home from extensive damage. Find your home’s main water shut-off valve plus individual shutoffs to specific appliances like your washing machine, dishwasher, and sinks. Show family members how to use these valves so it’s second nature for all in case of a leak or burst pipe.
“Knowing where and how to find the water main shut-offs can save you time and money in an emergency” (Universal Property).
Water Heater Maintenance
Your water heater is often overlooked until it leaks or fails. Regularly check for signs of corrosion, rust, or pooling water near the base. Flushing the tank annually can help remove sediment buildup, which extends the life of the heater. For added peace of mind, schedule a professional inspection every couple of years to ensure everything is functioning properly.
Set Up Automatic Shutoffs
For maximum protection, consider installing a leak detection system with an automatic shutoff feature. These systems monitor for leaks and automatically shut off the water supply if a problem is detected. It’s a smart investment, especially if you travel often or own a second home, as it can prevent extensive damage in your absence.
Know Your Shutoff Valve Locations
In addition to the main shut-off valve, each appliance will have a shut-off valve. Being familiar with these locations allows leaks to be isolated with minimum time and less effort than necessary otherwise. Whether a dripping faucet or burst pipe, the difference between the potential loss in isolating an entire house instead of simply one appliance with a few quick turns has saved hours and a big headache for many.
Keep the Heat On during Winter
Frozen pipes are one of the major causes of water damage at the time of winter. To prevent this, the indoor temperature should not be less than 55°F, even when away from home. This helps the pipes in walls and floors from freezing. In areas of extreme cold, consider opening cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the exposed pipes.
Shut off the water when away for extended periods.
If you are going to be away for a long period, turning off your main water valve can save you from unexpected leaks or floods. If it’s not possible to shut off the main valve, consider turning off individual valves to high-risk appliances like your washing machine and dishwasher. This small step can provide peace of mind and protect your home while you’re gone.
Install a Sump Pump with a Backup Battery
A sump pump is essential for houses in flood zones or for those homes that have basements. Make sure the sump pump has a backup battery on it, since power usually goes out in heavy storms.
Test and Maintain Your Sprinkler System
If you have an irrigation system, regularly inspect it for leaks or overwatering near the foundation. Adjust the settings to avoid creating soggy patches that could seep into your home.
Watch Your Water Bill
An unusually high water bill could indicate a hidden leak. Monitor your usage closely and investigate any sudden spikes.
Use Window Well Covers
For houses with basement windows, one can install window well covers to avoid the accumulation of rainwater and debris around the windows, which causes leakage.
Check and Replace Roof Flashing
Ensure the roof flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights are in good condition to prevent water from seeping into your home during rainstorms.
Upgrade to Smart Home Water Systems
Consider the installation of a smart water monitoring system. These devices can detect unusual water flow and even shut off your water supply automatically when a problem is detected.
Check Your Foundation
Check your foundation for cracks or openings that could admit water. Seal these immediately with waterproof epoxy or seek a professional for bigger problems.
Preventing water damage in your home is all about being proactive and consistent. These preventative measures will save you from costly repairs, keep the structural integrity of your home intact, and protect your family from the hazards of water damage. From regular inspections to installing water detectors and maintaining your appliances, small steps can make a big difference in safeguarding your home.
If you are facing water damage, then it is time to take some immediate action. That’s when Tri-State Ready Restoration can help out. Our expert team takes pride in finding and repairing and preventing further water damage for keeping your home safe and dry. Do not let the problem worsen. Let Tri-State Ready Restoration help to get started with the restoration process at your home and peace of mind today. Get in touch with us today.
