What Causes Residential Water Damage?

1/15/2020 (Permalink)

The last thing any of us want is water damage in our homes, and often times we take for granted the protection from the elements that our homes provide. When any kind of damage is spotted, it’s best to act as quickly as possible to stop it from causing more issues. Proactively addressing the problem can not only save the home’s appearance but can also save you a lot of money. It is also essential that homeowners know what can cause residential water damage so that precautionary measures may be taken.

Common Causes Of Water Damage

• Wind, rainstorms, and other natural disasters, such as flooding
• Leaks from a damaged roof
• Water draining onto the home’s structure from clogged gutters
• Broken or old windows that aren’t properly sealed lead to potential leaks
• Leaky faucets, burst pipes, slab leaks & other plumbing issues

Roof Damage

The signs that there is damage to the roof are often visible, but the cause of the damage isn't always evident to an untrained eye. Strong winds can loosen shingles in the roof, causing the under material to be exposed, which can cause a leak. Additionally, hail can cause abrasions and holes in the roof that may be too small to see, but that can cause significant damage or even shatter the shingles altogether.

Clogged Gutters

Not taking the time to clean the gutters can be a costly mistake. When gutters are clogged water sits against the roof and can cause the roof to rot. If the damage is severe enough, the entire roof may need to be replaced. Water from clogged gutters can spill over the sides of the gutters and lead to foundation damage, landscape erosion, and internal damage to the walls.

Outdated Or Faulty Windows

Older homes containing wooden window frames are prone to leaks and can be a safety issue. As water continues to batter the frame, the structural integrity is degraded. A leaky window in modern homes may be a sign of faulty installation. Upgrading your windows would have a number of additional benefits, including improved energy efficiency.

Plumbing Problems

Whether you’re dealing with a leaky faucet, a burst pipe, or a dreaded slab leak, plumbing problems are a common cause of water damage in homes. Unlike weather-caused damage, you might not notice the problem until it’s far too late. The best course of action to prevent significant water damage is to check on your plumbing often and install leak detectors so that you’ll know when something goes wrong.

How We Can Help

If you discover that your home has fallen victim to water damage, you’ll need to act quickly to prevent the spread of the water. Calling a professional water damage restoration company, like SERVPRO Of Tustin, will save you from spending thousands of dollars on salvaging your home and will ensure that your home remains a healthy place for you to live.