As a water damage restoration and mold remediation company in the Albany Area, we’ve seen plenty of water damage in homes across the Capital Region. In order to help homeowners prevent future water damage, we put together a list of some of the most common causes of water damage to look out for!
Common Causes of Water Damage
If you live in the Capital Region, be sure to be on the lookout for the following to prevent your home from future water damage:
Sump Pump Failure
The sump pump is the machine in your basement that removes water from underneath the foundation. Even when it’s not raining, your sump pump is saving your foundation from excess water that could erode your foundation and cause damage. If your pump is overwhelmed (like during a heavy rainstorm), broken, or there’s a power outage, your sump pump could fail and flood your basement, causing extensive water damage.
Ice Dam Damage
An ice dam is the previous unfrozen snow on your roof that refreezes and forms into massive sheets of ice. Over time, this build up can form a dam behind which water collects. The water can then seep into the walls and roof of your home, leading to costly repairs down the line.
Pipe Burst
Pipes burst in cold weather when the water inside the pipes get close to freezing, causing the water molecules to expand, build pressure, and burst right out of the pipe. After a pipe burst, not only will the pipes have to be repaired, but also require water mitigation and repairs where the water collected and caused damage.
Learn more about preventing pipe bursts in cold weather areas.
Learn more about preventing pipe bursts in cold weather areas.
Faulty Appliances
Hot water tanks, refrigerators, dishwashers, and other appliances that utilize your home’s water are at risk of causing water damage to your home if they are not serviced properly. Make sure to visually inspect appliances once a month for any signs of deterioration or leakage.
Storm Damage
Roofs, gutters, and exterior walls can quickly become overwhelmed when faced against a heavy storm. To prevent water damage, be sure to keep your gutters clean, inspect the attic for any signs of leaks, and make sure your sump pump is functioning properly.
Clogged Gutters
Your home’s gutter system is a simple system that collects water from your roof and channels it away to a better location. However, if you don’t clean out the leaves, twigs, dead animals, and other debris that collects in your gutters, water can backflow back towards your home.
Plumbing Issues
Sinks, toilets, and showers are used by your family daily, which means they’re at a greater risk of plumbing problems. Fix plumbing issues when they start, and inspect plumbing regularly for leaks. You’ll never guess how many times we’ve restored water damage after a homeowner was blind to a leaky toilet or bathtub!
Sewage Backups
When sanitary sewer lines back up into your home through floor drains and drain pipes, it can not only cause water damage but health concerns, too. A backwater valve can help prevent this from happening. If your home doesn’t have one, check with your plumber to see if your home is eligible for one.
One thing to remember is that water damage can facilitate mold growth in as little as 24-48 hours. So if you've experienced water damage recently, you need professional help as soon as possible. If you need assistance, call the CleanBright team today at 518-608-6242.
One thing to remember is that water damage can facilitate mold growth in as little as 24-48 hours. So if you've experienced water damage recently, you need professional help as soon as possible. If you need assistance, call the CleanBright team today at 518-608-6242.
