Your home is one of your most valuable assets. To protect your investment, it is important to be on the lookout for issues that could potentially cause expensive problems in the future. One of the biggest oversights in a home is water damage. This could include damage to the walls or floors due to a natural disaster (which resulted in flooding) or a leak in your home that led to water damage.
Here are four steps you can take today to prevent water damage to your home:
- Regularly Maintain Your Gutters and Downspouts:
- Clean your gutters and downspouts at least twice a year, especially in the fall and spring, to remove leaves, debris, and other obstructions that can cause blockages.
- Ensure that downspouts direct water away from your foundation, ideally extending at least 3-4 feet away to prevent water from pooling near your home.
- Inspect and Maintain Your Roof:
- Regularly inspect your roof for damaged or missing shingles, loose flashing, and signs of wear and tear. Address any issues promptly to prevent leaks.
- Trim overhanging branches to prevent them from scraping against or damaging your roof during storms.
- Seal and Waterproof Vulnerable Areas:
- Check the seals around windows and doors for any cracks or gaps, and reseal as necessary to prevent water from seeping in during heavy rains.
- Inspect your basement and foundation for cracks and leaks, and consider applying waterproof sealants or coatings to protect against groundwater infiltration.
- Install a Sump Pump and Backup System:
- If your home is prone to basement flooding, consider installing a sump pump to remove excess water and prevent basement water damage.
- Additionally, install a battery-powered backup sump pump system to ensure it continues working during power outages.
What should I do if I have water damage?
- First, contact your insurance agent to see if any of your water damage can be covered under your policy.
- Second, contact a professional water damage restoration service to check for mold and expertly repair any water damage to your home.
Who can you recommend for water damage cleanup?
In addition to these immediate steps, it’s essential to be proactive in identifying and addressing potential water damage risks around your home. Regular inspections and maintenance are key to preventing water damage in the long term. Consider consulting with a professional if you’re unsure about any of these tasks or if you suspect existing water damage issues that need attention.
- RestorationMasterFinder.com is a great resource for reputable water damage cleanup in your area! Simply visit the website, select your state from the menu, and click on the featured service provider closest to your home.
RestorationMasterFinder.com features local experts for everything from water damage cleaning services to mold remediation and fire restoration services across the nation. These highly trained technicians are ready to handle emergencies around the clock or schedule appointment times at your convenience.
Read more about Restoring your home after water damage…
Read more about Water damage cleanup costs or check the Cost of Flooding simulator …
