Avoiding Fall Water Damage

10/22/2021 (Permalink)

A clogged gutter allows water to sit in there which can lead to damage to your home.

With Fall fully in swing, it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure the protection of your home from potential water damage. The falling leaves are nice to look at, but they come with some serious consequences if they are not tended to. This article is going to provide you with some steps to take to put your home in the best position possible this fall.

1. Clean gutters and downspouts – Cleaning your gutters will stop them from experiencing any sort of blockage or ice dams. This is important because any standing water up there can lead to potential roof damage and over time begin to cause major problems. Another important thing to remember is to clean your downspouts. Having a clean downspout will allow water to flow freely without and problems. Make sure your downspout drains away from your home.
2. Maintain Trees and Vegetation – Although your trees may provide a pretty scene, it is what you cannot see that may give you trouble. The roots from the trees can wrap around the pipes and break them. It is important when landscaping to try to minimize planting near your home. Removing plants or trees that have become too big may be necessary.
3. Disconnect Hoses -Disconnecting your hoses from the faucet should be on your fall to-do list. Standing water in a hose can freeze back into the pipe and create an ice block that – in a best-case scenario – stops your water flow and, worst case, may bust your pipes and create damage to walls, floor, and foundation.
4. Investigate and fix leaks in a timely manner. The quicker these leaks are discovered can have a direct impact on the amount of damage that may occur. Finding and tending to the damage as fast as possible can make a significant difference overall. You need to remove the wet materials and begin the drying process to eliminate the possibility of growing microbials such as mold. Call your local SERVPRO if you experience water issues that are too large to handle on your own.