Preventing Water Damage BEFORE It Occurs

1/15/2020 (Permalink)

This home's ceiling has been damaged by water.

When it comes to water damage, preventing it can be the difference between an inconvenience or a disaster. Here are some practical tips for preventing water damage to your home.

5 Tips for Preventing Water Damage

1. Loud pipes, visible rust, visible moisture on the floor or walls, or wet dirt around your home could be signs of plumbing issues. They may seem small, but if you see these things, don’t dismiss them. They could be the first signs of something much more significant.
2. When cold weather comes, don’t neglect your pipes. Be sure to let your faucets drip and take the time to insulate exposed pipes to help keep them from bursting.
3. With new technology, the cost of a leak detection system is within reach for most homeowners. Getting an early warning can help prevent excessive water damage.
4. Water is designed to flow in a singular direction and as long as pressure is sustained, you won’t have any issues. If that pressure ever fluctuates, you face the possibility of backflow into your home. If your home is older, consider installing a backflow system to prevent sewage backup.
5. Never pour hot grease down a drain! It will flow easily while hot, but as it cools it solidifies, clogging your pipes and causing all kinds of trouble. Try pouring the grease in a jar and then discarding it afterward.

Understanding the Water Damage Timeline

Here at SERVPRO of Denton, we know a fast reaction is a key part of preventing water damage. But what happens if you don’t take care of the water right away? Check out the water damage timeline below to see what happens when water damage is left unchecked.

Within Minutes:

• Water can quickly spread throughout the property and saturate all surfaces it comes into contact with, absorbing into your carpets, walls, etc.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, or other dyes may begin to run and stain other surfaces
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods begin to warp

1 to 2 Hours:

• Drywall begins to warp and break down
• Metal begins to tarnish & furniture begins to warp and crack
• Musty odor appears

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold may begin to grow
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp
• Metal begins to rust and corrode
• Biohazard Contamination is possible

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically
• Serious health risk posed to building’s inhabitants
• If your home or office sustains water damage, don't hesitate!

What to do AFTER Water Damage Has Occurred

Your living space has been destroyed by water damage. What do you do now?

Texas homeowners know that with spring and summer comes unpredictable weather. Water damage in a home can happen quickly and without warning, causing big problems in a very short period of time. However, homeowners shouldn’t be exclusively on the alert for flash floods. There are many household problems that can cause water damage too such as:

• Roof leaks
• Foundation cracks
• Clogged gutters
• Defective appliances
• Leaking and burst pipes
• Backed-up drains
• Overflowing sinks and toilets
• Unsealed doors and windows

Visible water damage caused by a clogged toilet or an overflowing washing machine can be fairly quick and easy to repair. However it starts, water damage can often go undetected for years. 

It’s important to understand the restoration process before disaster strikes so you’re prepared for the worst-case scenario. Knowing who to contact and what to do when there’s a flood or burst pipe could be the difference between salvaging your home or dealing with a large loss situation. 

If you are having plumbing issues in your home, call SERVPRO of Denton to help with your water clean and restoration needs at (940) 514-8968!