One of the most expensive and time-consuming problems for a home is water damage. Learn more about it so you’re prepared in the case of an emergency.
What Causes Water Damage?
Water damage can be caused by plumbing issues, faulty appliances, and bad weather. One common cause of home water damage is a stopped-up main sewer line. The line clogs and eventually bursts under pressure, causing serious damage underneath your home. Leaky faucets, blocked garbage disposals, and busted bathroom fixtures can create small floods if the water to your home is not turned off quickly. Roof leaks caused by bad weather are another common reason to need water damage repair Parma.
How Is This Damage Fixed?
The softer surfaces and materials that make up your home, such as carpet and insulation, need to be replaced after water damage. This means ripping any damaged materials from the floors and walls; then the space needs to be dried, dehumidified, sanitized (standing water is contaminated easily), and repaired. The drywall and wall materials will also need replacing.
Depending on the severity of the damaged area, it can be a lengthy repair process. In the worst cases, your home may not be livable until the damage is fixed.
Can Water Damage Be Prevented?
One way to get ahead of potential future water damage, especially if your pipes are old, is to hire a licensed plumber to complete an inspection of your home’s plumbing system. A technician can run diagnostic tests on the water heater, use a camera to look for blockages in the main sewer and water lines, and inspect how well your faucets and fixtures, like toilets and showerheads, are functioning. Although preventative measures only go so far, they may help you find small problems before they become serious.
Water can cause serious damage to a home. Be sure to have a plan of action in case of a sudden burst pipe or threatening storm.