What Are The Typical Reasons For Water Damage In Houses?

Anyone who has ever experienced a leak knows the feeling. That mix of panic, confusion, and rage occurs whenever unexpected damage happens in your favorite place. The last place you want to cause stress is your home, your sanctuary. We have researched our data and have discovered the top 5 reasons water damage may occur unexpectedly. In this blog, we will discuss in detail the major causes of water damage in the home.

The 7 Major Reasons For Water Damage At Home: 

Water damage is a leading cause of property loss, with various common sources contributing to significant damage and costly repairs. Understanding these sources can help in prevention and mitigation. If the damage is not repaired right away, mold can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Here are the Seven major reasons for water damage in the home: 

Plumbing Issues 

Plumbing problems frequently result in water damage, so it’s critical to do an annual plumbing system inspection to avoid issues.  Water pipes have different lifespans: PVC drain pipes last forever if properly maintained, copper over 50 years, brass up to 70 years, and galvanized steel 20 to 50 years.

Leaky Pipes

Often, leaky pipes create water damage in homes because they cause cracks or holes that may go unnoticed for weeks or even months. In crawlspaces, too much moisture may create musty smells, pests, and wood rot; a lot can happen from a slow leak over time. Regular inspections and timely responses to leaks can go a long way in stopping these types of issues from appearing.

Roof Leaks

Rooftop leaks can occur from improper maintenance or missing shingles, and can cause water damage to the home when heavy rain falls. Water can stain ceilings, cause mold to grow, and cause structural damage inside the home. To prevent leaks, be sure to inspect your roof regularly and fix any issues before they get worse.

Clogged Gutters

Blocked gutters may cause water damage to your home by overflowing rainwater onto your roof or leaking down into your foundation, which can create unwanted moisture or even flooding. To avoid this, regularly clean your gutters, ensure your spouts hit your yard and away from the foundation of your home, and inspect if you have cracks in your foundation.

Appliance Malfunctions:

Appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators can cause water damage in homes if they break down or there is a malfunction with the connections. If it’s not caught early enough, the water damage can extend to the floors and support, creating mold, wood rot, and structural issues. Regular inspections of your appliances will help you catch an issue prior to any damage happening.

Sewer Backup

Sewer backups, caused by clogged or damaged sewer lines, can cause extensive water damage and pose serious health risks to homeowners. To prevent these backups, avoid flushing items down toilets and have a professional inspect and maintain your sewer system regularly.

Natural Disasters

Natural disasters like floods or storms can cause significant water damage to homes. To mitigate their impact, consider investing in flood insurance and having a plan in place for potential emergencies, especially if you live in flood-prone areas.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, every homeowner needs to be aware of the typical reasons why water damage occurs.  You can avoid expensive repairs and safeguard your haven by being proactive and routinely checking for leaks, maintaining your roof and gutters, and monitoring your appliances.  Recall that preventing the development of mold and other problems requires prompt action.  Your home will continue to be a secure and cozy place for you and your loved ones as long as you are informed and organized.

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