Let’s face it: water damage is a real drip. Who wants unsightly stains, mould growth, musty odours and expensive bills? Certainly not us! The good news is there are steps you can take to help prevent water damage before it happens. In this blog post, we’ll explore common causes of water damage and provide you with some practical tips to help protect your home.
Common Causes of Water Damage
Home water damage can be a costly and frustrating experience. Water damage can have long-lasting effects and be difficult to remedy, whether from a burst pipe, a leaky roof, or a natural disaster. Here are six common causes homeowners should be aware of:
- Damaged siding: Water can seep into interior walls if siding is damaged, poorly installed, or not properly maintained.
- Plumbing problems: Pipes can crack, corrode, or freeze, causing them to leak or burst. Clogged drains and faulty plumbing fixtures can also cause structural damage.
- Roof leaks: Damaged or poorly installed roofs can allow water to enter your home and damage your property.
- Eavestroughs: Clogged or damaged eavestroughs can cause water to overflow and accumulate around the home’s foundation, potentially leading to basement flooding and subsequent damage.
- Aging appliances: The hoses connected to your water heater, washing machine, dishwasher, and other appliances can wear out over time, leading to leaks.
- Windows: Windows can be a source of water damage if they are not properly installed, sealed, or maintained.
How to Address These Issues
There’s no need to let water damage rain on your parade. When you know what to look for, regular maintenance can help prevent bigger, more costly issues:
- Repair or replace damaged sections of siding
- Replace problem windows
- Properly insulate pipes exposed to cold temperatures
- Drain water away from your home
- Install a water detection system
Learn more about Gentek’s selection of naturally water-resistant siding, high-quality windows and aluminum eavestrough.