Water damage is one of the most unpredictable and least expected things to happen in a residential house. Water can get so challenging to control when it’s leaking out. Appliances and furniture can be at risk when there’s leakage inside your home. Although average water damage and leakage don’t have a severe impact, they can still damage many of your things.
There are a lot of causes of water damage. For this list, homeowners must know the four causes of water damage in residential areas. This will help them understand and reduce the risk of flooding and leakage inside their home. A homeowner who understands the causes of the problem can quickly provide a solution. So what are the four common causes?
1. Broken Pipes
Out of all the most common causes, broken pipes cause water damage. There are a lot of factors why pipes become broken and result in water leakage. The first one is rusting. Due to old age and lack of maintenance, pipes become rusted over time. When a pipe becomes rusted, it is more prone to damage, resulting in water droplets that eventually lead to water leakage.
The next factor is rodents or pests. Most of the time, pipes are the main pathway for problems getting inside your home. Rats specifically will bite your pipes for them to get in, and this will create a hole that they will use as an entrance. Not only can it cause water damage to your home, but it can also spread diseases.
Lastly, pipes that lack maintenance. It is uncommon for homeowners to maintain their pipes. However, it is a must. Even once or twice a month, call your local plumber to clean your pipes and check if there’s leakage or damage. Broken pipes can easily be fixed by plaster, removing a rusty pipe, and replacing the broken pipe with a brand new one.
2. Blocked Drainage
Another part of your house that needs maintenance is the drainage system. A blocked drainage system can be experienced through different factors. Even the smallest object can cause a larger problem when left unattended. When drainage is blocked, it can also lead to a foul odor which is infuriating for homeowners.
Blocked drainage can start from the kitchen and in the bathroom. The drainage can be blocked in the kitchen sink if there is an oil build-up and leftover foods are thrown inside. To avoid it, just filter the excess oil and leftover food not to get thrown in the sink. In the bathroom, hair and soap buildup is the cause of drainage blockage.
To get rid of blocked drainage, there are steps that you can try at home. Dropping hot water with vinegar and baking soda in the kitchen sink and bathroom drain can eliminate the unpleasant smell and dissolve the unnecessary build-up. Furthermore, homeowners can always use chemicals to clean their drainage system. It may be risky, but it is made to dissolve all dirt and blockage in the drainage system.
3. Clogged Gutters
Gutters are another area where water damage can start. Same to the drainage system, the gutters serve as the drainage system of the roof. When it is raining, channels supposedly draw rainwater away from your house. It helps lessen the house by creating ponds of water above the top. When a pond builds above the roof, it can get heavy and start water damage.
There are many reasons why gutters are clogged, such as fallen leaves, branches, and broken pipe debris. Once it happens, the water flow won’t function properly. This resulted in what was said earlier, a pond of water. The water will flow back inside your home instead of leaving your property. Sweaty walls, water droplets in the ceiling, and even pipes can burst out when the water can’t be controlled anymore.
Homeowners shouldn’t worry too much about clogged gutters. Cleaning these areas is not that difficult. You can just quickly grab a ladder and cleaning materials then you are good to go. Pick up all the leaves, branches, and other small debris from the gutters. Also, homeowners should check this regularly. Not only will it cause water damage, but it can potentially reduce the roof’s structural integrity.
4. Weather Conditions
In some places, many homeowner experiences severe weather conditions. Typhoons are one of the causes of water damage, especially in tropical areas. Heavy rainfall can often lead to flooding. When it’s flooding, the drainage won’t be able to have a proper water flow anymore. Debris and other objects that go with the flood can also cause water damage. And when there’s a roof that isn’t built well, it can easily break by the typhoon.
Keep it tidy!
Cleanliness is the answer most of the time to avoid problems in the house. Decluttering is a great way to reduce unnecessary things from your home to make it more spacious. Regular maintenance can help reduce the risk of water damage too. However, if things go out of control and you need help with water cleanup in Kansas City, don’t hesitate to call a professional.