3 Tips On Protecting Your Property From Water Damage

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

Improper maintenance of you homes gutters could lead to a headache down the road! Avoid future water damage by keeping an eye on your gutters!

Water damage and mold cost American homeowners and insurance companies more than $2.5 billion every year. It is very common, but it doesn’t have to be. Homeowners have several easy steps they can take to protect themselves and their property from leaks and flooding. Below are some of the most effective.

What Are Some Ways to Guard Your Home Against Water Damage?

1. Waterproof the Basement

Waterproofing or concrete sealing is a process in which a protective coating is applied to concrete slabs and cinder blocks to make it less porous. It keeps moisture from seeping into your living space from outdoors. This should prevent most water damage from occurring, but also consider installing a sump pump to remove any moisture that does make it inside, including from pipe leaks and drain backups. 

2. Clean Your Gutters

Rain gutters clog easily by collecting leaves, twigs, dirt, and other organic debris. When this happens, the troughs overflow instead of directing rainwater away from the house. This results in puddling around the foundation, through which moisture can seep, enter your lowest level, and damage furniture, carpeting, drywall, and other items you keep there. To prevent overflows, clean the troughs and downspouts of your gutter system twice a year: once in spring and once in fall. 

3. Monitor Water Bills and Use

Hidden leaks can cause untold amounts of damage before you even know they exist. Therefore, it's a good idea to monitor your water bills and usage statements. If your bill and water usage should increase sharply without explanation, it could indicate a leak in your plumbing system. Contact a plumber for an inspection, or you may soon notice mold growth, musty smells, stains in your drywall, peeling wallpaper, and other signs of water damage.

If your home has suffered water damage, contact SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach in Florida. They serve St. Johns County and the surrounding areas, specializing in water extraction, biohazard cleanup, mold remediation, fire and storm damage remediation, and other emergency cleaning services. Learn more about them on their website and their YouTube channel or call (904) 429-4457 for water damage cleanup.