Sources of Water Damage

Today we're talking about leaks and water damage. Our reader asks;

"I know that there are a lot of things that can cause water damage but what are the biggest ones? How can I prevent them from being a problem?"

Water damage can happen very quickly and seemingly without warning

It's true that there are almost unlimited sources for water damage, leaks and flooding can come from almost anywhere. However, the key to preventing most water damage incidents is in maintenance and observation.

Two huge sources of flooding are burst pipes and broken appliances. Visually checking pipes for signs of damage and making sure any exterior pipes are insulated can help prevent this. Worn and damaged pipes can get progressively worse over time and uninsulated pipes can freeze and burst. Regularly inspect appliance water supply lines for signs of damage and to make sure they aren't becoming dislodged at all.

Roof leaks are another common source of water damage. Always inspect the roof at least twice a year. In Sierra Vista, before and after monsoon season are good times to perform these checks, this will help to identify and repair any damage before the summer rains come and then identify any damage that the storms may have caused.

While there is any number of other possible causes for water damage in a home in addition to those listed above, the best method for prevention is to make sure that the home is properly maintained. Addressing potential problems before they cause damage is always easier (and less expensive) than trying to clean up the damage of a water disaster.