31 Oct 6 Essential Tips to Help Protect Your Home from Water Damage
Consider how many hours you spend away from home. Many of us spend extended periods of time away from our homes, whether it’s for work every day, weekend trips, or family vacations.
Imagine how you’d feel if your home was flooded after a relaxing weekend away, or you returned from a weekend trip to find water in your basement. Or if your living room ceiling fell or your stairs were flooded.
The second most common homeowner insurance claim is water damage. It is common to believe that water damage in your house is not a big deal. Statistics show that water damage is seven times more common than fire damage, and six times more common than burglary.
Here are some common causes of water damage that can result from a plumbing leak.
* Dishwashers* Ice Makers
* Water heaters
* Toilets
* Sinks
* Washing machines
* Tubs and showers
The damage to your home can be catastrophic, regardless of whether it is a major water leak or an unnoticed one. Here are some things you can do in order to protect your home against water damage.
1. Regularly inspect hoses and faucets. Experts recommend that all hoses be replaced every five to seven year.
2. You should inspect your tubs and showers. Replace any cracks in the caulk. Caulk can be very affordable and prevents water from getting into your floors.
3. It is essential to understand how to turn off your water main. Most situations will result in the water main being shut off.
4. Floor pans are a good idea. They won’t stop you from a major leak but they can help prevent damage from slow, undetected leaks.
5. Point of leak water alarms are a good option. An alarm is activated when water is detected in an area. This alerts you to a potential water danger. These sensors can be installed in basements, laundry areas, bathrooms, kitchens or near the sump pump.
6. You might consider purchasing a water flow monitor system. This system attaches to your main water supply and protects your whole house.
The system measures water flow to your house. It will stop water from entering your home if it detects continuous water flow that exceeds the normal stopping and restarting of everyday appliances.