15 Feb Learn How to Prevent Water Leaks In Your Home
Water leaks are a major cause of home damage, causing millions of dollars each year. Water leaks can almost always be avoided. The following is an extract from the Institute for Business & Home Safety According to the IBHS, there are five areas in your home that could lead to water damage. If necessary, you can take a look at these areas and perform simple maintenance to keep them from leaking.
- Roof: Take a look from the inside. If possible, inspect the roof from the inside and out for missing or curled shingles. Next, examine the roof’s underside from the attic. Water spots can be a sign of a water problem that must be repaired.
- Door and window seals: Signs of water leakage include peeling paint, streaks under windows, and swollen or soft drywall. Check that the caulking around exterior windows and doors is in good condition and replace it if necessary. Flashing around windows can be repaired. Repair damaged siding, wood, or drywall.
- Exterior walls To prevent water from leaking, make sure exterior walls have been painted and sealed. Seal all cracks and openings around vents or pipes that enter the exterior wall.
- Downspouts and gutters: Make sure they are stable and clean to prevent them from becoming flying debris in high winds. To prevent water from leaking into your basement, make sure that downspouts are not sloped towards the foundation and that water is kept at least five feet away from it.
- Lawn and landscaping: It is possible for the yard’s grading to change. Make sure that water drains away and doesn’t pool on walls. Place compost and mulch away from exterior walls. Also, make sure the sprinklers are not spraying the house.
IBHS recommends that water sources be checked inside your home. In addition, IBHS recently found that more than half of all washer failures can be attributed to the supply hose.
These leaks can be prevented by replacing the supply line with a steel braided pipe. Residential water leaks are most common due to a failure of the plumbing supply system. The number of claims for residential water leaks dramatically increases for homes older than 21.