03 Mar Understanding the Primary Causes of Water Damage
One of the most common problems homeowners face is water damage. Water damage is caused by prolonged contact with water. Non-weather-related water damage is responsible for 1 out 4 homeowners’ claims. This means that a large proportion of water damage claims are caused by faulty or leaky appliances, pipe leaks, and sewage overflow.
Each year, 1 in 50 homeowners with insurance in the United States has a claim for water damage. Water damage can be caused by many different things, but the most important thing is to properly deal with it.
Take precautionary steps:
- Installation of a leak detector near water lines and under sinks in common appliances
- HVAC systems are subject to quarterly maintenance checks.
- Keep a dry/wet shop-vac handy in order to quickly remove water.
- Regularly changing out your supply lines and replacing old supply lines with stronger, more reliable models.
Water damage is costly if it’s not dealt with quickly.
A COMMON CAUSE FOR WATER DAMAGE
Leakage from appliances can cause water damage, causing excess water to build up on wood floors. The water can cause wood to warp and curl if it is not addressed. This can lead to a very unattractive look that is difficult to replace.
Water damage can be caused by:
- Pipes bursting or leaching
- Negligence or a faulty plumbing system can cause clogging.
- Water accumulation in places that are prone to collect it, such as crawl spaces and rain gutters, attics and basements.
- Water heaters, which can be faulty or not working properly, are some examples of malfunctioning household appliances.
- Problems with HVACs (Heating and Ventilating Equipment)
- Natural disasters, and other weather-related water issues.
BURSTING PIPES OR LEAKING PIPES
Burst pipes and leaking pipes are two of the leading causes of water damage. If these events go unnoticed over a prolonged period of time, water can build up behind walls and floors. Pressure buildup in pipes can cause them to burst. Other disasters include corroded pipes and garbage disposals that are not working properly.
PLUMBING ISSUES
Most plumbing problems are difficult to spot and can only be discovered when it is too late. If pipes are not installed correctly or broken over time, it can lead to financial ruin. Pipes that run through ceilings on two-story homes require extra attention.
PROBLEMS IN THE ATTIC, CRAWL SPACE, AND BASEMENT
Water damage can occur in basements, crawl spaces, or attics due to easy water buildups that may go unnoticed for long periods of time. These areas are also susceptible to mold growth. Mold can grow in dark, damp, and wet areas and eat away at the structure.
FAULTY HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS
Leakages can be caused by appliances that were not installed correctly or simply wear and tear. These problems will only get worse if they aren’t addressed quickly. Pay attention to refrigerators, water heaters as well as dishwashers and washing machines.
HVACS
Quarterly maintenance is required for air conditioning, heating and ventilation systems. It is best to not wait until there are problems before you call. If they’re lucky, mold buildups or spores in their ducts will not be a problem.