Water damage is one of the most common disasters that homeowners face. So what are the most common reasons for water damage? And how can you avoid them? In this post, our water damage cleanup experts at Frontier Services Group in Fort Worth will walk you through these most common reasons for water damage and provide some tips for preventing them.
Burst Or Leaking Pipes
Burst or leaking pipes are a perennial cause of water damage. Damage from failed pipes is a problem at all times of the year. Even small, slow leaks can cause significant damage over time if they go unnoticed. They could lead to mold growth, warped flooring, and compromised structural integrity. Make sure you frequently inspect exposed pipes and monitor your water bill for unexplained increases. This will help you prevent leaks or catch them in their tracks before the need for water damage cleanup becomes too severe.
Severe Weather
Fort Worth is no stranger to severe thunderstorms, hail, and flash floods, especially in spring and early summer. Heavy rains can overwhelm storm drains and cause water to seep into basements or low-lying areas of your home. If your home isn’t properly graded or lacks effective drainage, you’re at even higher risk. If you have adequate warning, emergency preventative measures like placing sandbags around your property can help limit damage if flooding is imminent. Preparing in advance for severe weather can also help you lower the cost of water damage cleanup by minimizing damage.
Leaky Roofs
Your roof should be your first line of defense against water damage disasters. Over time, however, your roof can become weakened and turn into a source of vulnerability. Missing shingles, damaged flashing, clogged gutters, or general wear and tear can all allow water to seep in during storms, leading to damage in your attic, ceilings, insulation, and walls. Regular roof inspections, especially after major weather events, can help you catch these issues early. Proactively maintaining your roof and addressing minor repairs right away is one of the best ways to prevent a major water damage cleanup project from a leaky roof.
Appliance Failures
There are a vast number of ways that issues with your appliances can cause water damage. Just to name a few, problems with your water heater, dishwasher, washing machine, refrigerator, and more are all potential sources of water damage. These appliances can fail quickly, without warning, and lead to large amounts of water in a relatively short time. Make sure you inspect your appliances regularly and read the user manuals to understand what needs to be done to keep your appliances from causing water damage in your home.
Water Damage Cleanup in Fort Worth
While adhering to the advice given above will undoubtedly go a long way toward reducing the risk of water damage in your home, nothing is ever guaranteed when it comes to water damage. If you are unfortunate enough to deal with a water damage disaster in your home, contact our water damage cleanup experts at Frontier Services Group in Fort Worth without delay. We will do all we can to help your home recover from the damage and walk you through the water damage cleanup process.