Water Infrastructure Maintenance in Households

Water intrusion is a household threat in many homes that damages materials and systems. Water damage in households is mainly caused by failed plumbing and pipes in toilets, leaking air conditioning units, roofs, water heaters, overflowing gutters, sump pump failure, and HVAC systems. Additionally, aging pipes and water infrastructure may bring about leaks. Water damages are known to cause messes if not appropriately handled. Examples of destructive processes by water include;

• Rusting of steel
• Mold growth
• Bacteria growth
• Rotting of wood
• Delaminating of plywood
• Swelling of composite woods

Signs of water damage

Dark/wet spots: Keep a thorough check in case you identify discoloration on the ceiling, wallpaper peeling off, and the exterior walls of your home sagging inward/outward.

Damp, moldy, or musty smell: Dampness owes distinct smell, especially on the ceiling boards and floors. A musty odor that doesn't seem to leave your floor/basement is usually accompanied by mold or mildew appearance.

Pooling water; Regular water drips and leaks lead to the accumulation of water pools. If you notice the re-emergence of a puddle after drying it up, that could mean a leakage area.

Sounds of running water: Water leaks produce some dripping sound, especially on the floors. Water on the basement floors causes creaking.

Increased utility bills: An abrupt surge in a water bill could sign the possibility of a hidden water leak.

Cracking, flaking, or bubbling surfaces: Counter checks the drywall and ceiling paints if flakes and cracks are visible. Cracks appearing on the floor of the basement and walls could raise the alarm.

How to prevent water damage

Clean gutters and downspouts: Carry out proper gutter maintenance regularly so that water drains efficiently away from your home. To avoid impromptu blockage, you can clean the gutters twice a year. Blockage in channels brings about standing water and unmanaged overflow that may damage the roof or create puddles that could damage the house foundation. Clean downspouts enable pointing away of water from the home.

Inspect and fix leaks promptly: If you identify any moisture in the house surface, investigate and repair. Maintain your pipes to deter bursting and flooding your home.

Maintain appliances: Regular checks for leaks on devices prevent the occurrence of unprecedented water damage scenarios. Just as any homeowner can choose to partner with a maintenance company for frequent checks. Please pay attention to connecting hoses, and change the pipes as they age.

Know your water main: The water foremost is the primary water supply in a house; hence in case of a plumbing emergency, you should be able to access the main and shut it off.

Disconnect hoses: Ice blocks usually form in pipes with standing water. The formation of blockages may burst pipes and cause spillage. To prevent ice block formation, it's easily via disconnecting hoses from the faucet and drain excess water.

Maintain vegetation and trees: Water pipes pass underground; hence, they may break or burst when they encounter tree roots, leading to damages. It is vital to remove big shrubs and trees near utility pipes.

Conclusion

Water damages and leak structural issues become severe and worsen over time. Most areas prone to water damage include the gutters, ceilings, and floor basement. Homeowners can avoid the destruction caused by water leaks through proper care and maintenance.