Preventable Water Damage Tips

12/27/2020 (Permalink)

Keep Your Downspouts Unclogged to Prevent Ice Buildup

Every year water damage on Long Island causes millions of dollars in damages. It can be the result of pipes bursting, leaks, or natural disasters. Even though water can cause a lot of damage, there are several things you can do to reduce the severity of the damage.

Simple Prevention Techniques
With some simple prevention techniques, you can prevent or dramatically reduce water damage costs. When you leave your home for vacation, turn off your main water line. This will ensure that flooding will not be the result of a  frozen pipe that has burst, or a hose. When the weather is frigid, allow your faucets to drip slowly but regularly, that way any water that freezes will have room to expand without bursting a pipe.

Make sure to clean gutters and downspouts frequently, so clogs from leaves, dirt, and other debris don’t cause gutter damage or any overflowing water to enter your home. Always have your hose connections checked yearly and regularly check on your appliances, especially those that have a water supply. This will be more cost and energy efficient, and it could also prevent a major catastrophe.

Look around for Small Signs of Water Damage
Also, pay close attention to any signs that water damage is occurring. If you notice a water stain on the ceiling or water spot on wood, that could be a sign of a leak. That leak could continue to warp various building materials until you have significant damage inside the structure of your home. Make sure all appliance hose fittings and connections are properly tightened and sealed. This could be a refrigerator ice maker line, washing machine hose, dishwasher, etc. Remove and replace all old caulk and grout around sinks, tubs, and tile work. It's prudent to always check for leaks around faucets, drains, and water supply lines. Test your sump pump at least once each season to ensure that it will properly transport water out through a drainpipe and away from the building.

Protect Your Furnishings and Other Valuables
Keep valuable items and furniture off of areas that are prone to flooding by placing them on tables or supporting them in another way. If a flood occurs, at least some of your property will be protected by being higher than the floor. Inspect your roof carefully for any shingle or flashing damage , especially near chimneys. Ensure that your R insulation factor is sufficient for your attic. This will all but eliminate the potential for ice damming on the roof and gutters. By completing these simple fixes, you can save yourself from potential water damage costs later.

Weatherproof Your Home
Before winter begins, be sure and disconnect all water hoses from around your home and turn the interior water valves off completely. Invest in foam covers for your outside spigots. This  fix will insulate the area around the taps which will help prevent freezing and water damage. Furthermore, be sure to seal around window cracks and sealants around doors to further prevent water from entering your home during a storm or flood.

If, after all of your proactive efforts, water damage becomes an issue, call SERVPRO of East Meadow/Westbury for an immediate response to mitigate any damage, and save you time and money. We can restore your property to preloss condition "Like it never even happened."

We Use The Latest Advanced Drying Equipment and Techniques

Restoring your home after a fire or water damage event requires specialized equipment, expertise, and products. This advanced equipment allows us to remove the water and even hidden moisture, quickly and efficiently from your home. Call SERVPRO of East Meadow/Westbury 24/7 for a prompt response. 516-334-2927