Avoiding Water Damage in Your Home

1/9/2023 (Permalink)

Avoiding Water Damage in Your Home

Water damage is a serious issue that can cause a lot of harm to your Leawood, KS home. You may not realize it, but water damage can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can harm the health of those living in the home. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to avoid water damage in your home. Here are some tips on how you can prevent water from getting into your house:

1. Check Outside Pipes, Spigots, and Hoses

If you find a leaky pipe or hose that is not in use, turn off the water supply to it immediately and then repair the leak. Also, check your home's foundation for holes or cracks that could let water seep into your basement during heavy rains or snow melt-downs. Leaks in your roof can cause significant damage if they're not detected early on because they can lead to mold growth inside the house and even structural damage as well as costly repairs down the road when these leaks are left unfixed for too long!

2. Keep an Eye on Your Windows

In addition to checking your gutters and rain barrels, keep an eye on your windows. Checking for water damage can be as simple as looking at the exterior of your home. If you see any streaks, discoloration or peeling paint on any window frames, it may be time to call a professional.

• Check window seals. Check that all seals are intact and in good condition. If they're damaged or broken, they won't keep out moisture or cold air—and that's when water damage begins!
• Check window caulking. Make sure there is no mold growing behind your caulk lines where moisture can get trapped between walls and windowsills (or other surfaces). Caulk should be applied with a thick bead approximately 3/8 inch wide to ensure it seals properly against both sides of the window frame (or another surface). The bead needs to reach slightly past each end of the joint where two materials meet; otherwise, it will not form a proper seal between them.
• Check for signs of condensation collecting between panes of glass in double-hung windows.

3. Do Not Plant Trees Near the Foundation

If you have trees near your home, be sure to plant them at least 10 feet away from the foundation of your house. Trees can cause damage to the foundation and cause water damage if they are too close. 

4. Keep Your Gutters Clean

The gutter should be cleaned at least twice a year, and more often if it is clogged or damaged. It's also important to ensure that the gutters aren't too full of debris—ideally, you'll want there to be enough room for water flow so that it doesn't overflow into your home. If possible, remove debris like leaves and sticks before they can enter the gutter.

5. Check Your Roof for Leaks

Check your roof for leaks regularly. You can do this by climbing up on the roof, but it's easier to use a flashlight and check from ground level. Look in the attic, gutters, and around vents for any water stains or dampness that could indicate a leak. Check for loose tiles or other signs of damage on the shingles, as well as cracks in the foundation where water could enter through them.

Water is a powerful force that can cause serious damage if not handled properly. As long as you use common sense and take the time to check your Leawood, KS home regularly for leaks and other problems, you will be able to avoid water damage. If you do have a water damage problem, SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa is here to help you get back to normal as soon as possible!