Water damage to a home can cause serious problems fast, including irreversible property damage and mold growth. To help you avoid water damage issues, the Orange County mold removal team at Mold Masters put together the following guide. There are many easy ways to protect your home from this type of damage and enjoy a healthier, more stable residence.
Ensure Storm Windows Are Secure
If your residence features storm windows, make certain they are fully closed. This is especially important before big storms, since even the smallest cracks can cause rainwater infiltration and damage. Inspect your storm windows for any issues that allow water in and have them repaired as necessary. For example, you might need holes drilled into the window sills to prevent water damage in the walls.
Keep Up With Appliance Maintenance
The water-using appliances in your home can cause serious damage if they malfunction and leak, including the washing machine, dishwasher, garbage disposal, and ice maker. Any water-using appliance on the second floor of your home, such as an upstairs laundry room, needs extra attention to sidestep leaks and ceiling damage. Check your appliances’ owner’s manuals to create a maintenance schedule.
Maintain Clean Gutters
Clogged gutters are among the biggest water damage culprits, since leaves, twigs, animal nests, seeds, and other debris prevent rainwater from flowing away from your home. The water either backs up under roof shingles or spills over and pools around your residence’s foundation–either way, water damage results. Clean your gutters at least twice a year to prevent clog-related issues. It also helps to keep nearby trees trimmed to avoid severe leaf and twig deposits in your gutters.
Stay Ahead of Plumbing Issues
Burst pipes, clogged pipes, leaking pipes…all of these issues lead to water damage. Plumbing maintenance such as wrapping exposed pipes during winter, scheduling annual inspections, and checking for leaks about once a month help you sidestep related damage. It also helps to use drain screens that protect your pipes from hair, food scraps, and soap bits. Keep oil, fat, and grease out of your drains for the same reason.
For water damage, mold inspection, and mold removal services in Los Angeles, please contact Mold Masters today.