About 14,000 people across the United States experience a water damage emergency every day. While this damage may sometimes result from natural occurrences such as storms and floods, it’s often caused by water leaks at home and in workplaces.
The financial impact is tremendous. Nationally, damages associated with household water damage amount to $20 billion per year.
The good news is that water leaks are preventable. This post highlights six sure ways to avert water leaks around your home.
Leak-Proof Your Roof
A leaky roof is not only a nuisance, but it can also cause serious damage to your home. Fortunately, you can take a few simple steps to help avert water leakage from your roof, preventing water damage.
First, make sure that your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris. Doing so will allow water to flow freely away from your roof instead of pooling around the edges.
Second, inspect your roof regularly for cracks or missing shingles. If you find any damage, be sure to repair it promptly.
Finally, consider installing a water-resistant barrier underneath your shingles. This will help to create an extra layer of protection against leaks.
Insulate Your Attic
Attic insulation helps keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, saving you money on your energy bills. But attic insulation can also help to prevent water damage.
By keeping the temperature in your attic consistent, you can prevent condensation from forming on the inside of your roof. And by preventing condensation, you can also help to avert leaks.
There are a few different ways to insulate your attic, so choosing the option that best suits your needs is important. One popular method is to use fiberglass insulation, which can be easily installed by yourself or with the help of a professional
Another option is to use spray foam insulation, which is more effective at preventing leaks, although it may cost you more.
Secure Your Home’s Basement
A basement water leak can be a serious problem for any homeowner. Not only can it cause extensive damage to your home, but it can also lead to mold growth, which can pose serious health risks.
There are a few simple steps to help prevent basement leaks. Make sure your gutters and downspouts are clean and free of debris. This will help ensure that rainwater is directed away from your foundation.
Fixing your leaky foundation can also help if that’s what’s causing flooding in your basement. Seal any cracks or gaps you see to help prevent water from seeping in. Invest in a sump pump to help remove any water that does manage to leak into your basement.
Keep Your Pipes in Good Shape
Your home’s pipes are responsible for carrying fresh water in and dirty water out. Over time, however, even the sturdiest of pipes can develop leaks. These leaks can lead to higher water bills, and they can also cause extensive damage to your home.
So, how do you prevent leaks from happening in the first place? Start by regularly inspecting your pipes for any signs of wear and tear. It’s one of the smartest ways for detecting water leaks before they become a big issue.
If you detect a small leak, repair it immediately before it has a chance to get worse. You should also insulate your pipes to help protect them from freezing in the winter.
Keep Your Faucets and Sinks in Good Shape
A small drip from a leaky faucet may seem like no big deal, but it can waste a lot of water and money over time. Leaks from sinks, faucets, and other areas in the home lead to almost $10,000 gallons of water wasted per American household each year.
That’s why it’s important to keep your faucets and sinks in good shape. Here are a few ways to do so:
- Check for leaks regularly and repair them promptly
- Replace worn out washers and gaskets
- Tighten loose screws and bolts
- Make sure the sealant around your sink is intact
You can help prevent water leaks and save money on your water bill by taking these easy steps.
Seal Windows and Doors
You’ve probably experienced a window leak or door leak at some point. Those pesky little drips appear out of nowhere and won’t go away.
Door and window leaks can be annoying, but they can also cause serious damage to your home if left unchecked. Water can damage drywall, paint, floors, and furniture, leading to mold and mildew growth.
The good news is that these leaks are relatively easy to prevent. One way to prevent water leaks into your home is to seal your windows and doors. This can be done by caulking around the window frame and doorframe and weatherstripping around the doors.
You may also want to install window film or window guards to help keep water out. In addition, regularly check your window and door seals for any cracks or gaps. Seal them up immediately to prevent water from leaking in if you find any.
Take Action to Avert Water Leaks in Your Home
Water leaks can be a huge hassle and a major expense. Not only do they waste water, but they can also damage your home and cost you a lot of money in repairs. By following the simple tips we’ve recommended in this guide, you can keep your home leak-free.
Are water leaks giving you problems on your property? Get in touch with us today to resolve the issue once and for all.
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