Some causes of water damage that may happen in your property.

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

The cleanup and restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Atascadero/ Paso Robles have released a recent report detailing the four most common causes of water damage and how to avoid this type of scenario. Homeowners can avoid excessive water damage by following prevention tips listed in the report.

Most Common Causes of Water Damage in the Home

Water damage can have a serious effect on a house, including rendering it a total loss in extreme cases. Below are the four most common causes of water damage and tips for avoiding damage to one’s home.

Bursting or Leaking Pipes

This is one of the most common causes of home flooding and can lead to excessive water damage. Drains which become backed up with debris can block and cause pressure in the pipe, leading to a burst or leak. Incorrectly operating garbage disposals are another culprit of bursting pipes. Additionally, roots growing in the yard can move into sewer lines causing issues with piping and plumbing.

Tip: Ensure regular maintenance of garbage disposal units and avoid putting excessive amounts of food or waste down the drain.

 Issues with plumbing

Hoses and pipe joints which aren’t fully attached to plumbing fixtures can cause flooding in the home. Flooding can happen rapidly in a situation like this, leading to water damage and potential mold in the affected area. 

Tip: Periodically check under bathroom and kitchen sinks for worn out hoses and pipe joints.

Moisture buildup

Areas prone to collecting water, such as crawl spaces, attics and basements can be more susceptible to water damage if water has been introduced and never removed. Moisture can leak through concrete foundation causing water and mold damage to lower levels of the home. Air leakage into the section between the home and the attic can cause moisture on the underside of the roof and lead to rotting and mold. 

Tip: Periodically check for air leaks or moisture build-up in mold-prone areas, including the basement and attic.

Malfunctioning Household Appliances

When appliances age, their pipes and hoses deteriorate causing cracks and rust to form leaving them weak and susceptible to bursting. Household appliances which can cause the most water damage include washing machines, water heaters, refrigerators, and dishwashers.

Tip: Ensure regular maintenance of household appliances and replace any old or worn-out hosing and tubing.