Force 1 Restoration Services - Force 1 Restoration Shares Water Damage Prevention Tips

Water damage prevention tips

Water damage can prove to be a huge expense. Moreover, not every kind of water damage is necessarily covered by a homeowner’s insurance. Therefore, the best practice is to prevent the water damage from occurring in the first place by properly maintaining the property. Force 1 Restoration, a water damage restoration company, shares several tips to prevent water damage.

1. Basement leaks

1. Reseal the basement:
  As a house gets older, the foundations or floor slabs of a basement may start to develop cracks. Homeowners must watch out for any water seepage, especially after heavy rains. The presence of any seepage is indicative of the deterioration of the waterproof cement floors and walls. By painting the vulnerable spots with water sealant, homeowners can prevent or mitigate the water damage.
2. Grade the yard:
  After a storm, the soil becomes oversaturated and directs all the water back towards the foundation, into the basement through cracks. By grading the lawn away from the house, homeowners can prevent the water from pooling around the house. A porous pavement, french drains, and a dry creek around the house can go a long way in draining the water away from the house.
3. Clean the gutters
  Natural debris such as twigs and leaves often block the gutters during spring and autumn. This can provide an opportunity for the water to pool around the house during rains.

2. Inspect the plumbing system

Appliance hoses and faucets:
The hoses leading to water heaters, dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerator icemakers must be inspected annually. Hoses with cracks and leaks or ones that are more than five to seven years old must be replaced.
Showers and tubs:
The seal and caulking around showers and tubs start to crack after some time. Homeowners must inspect these spots to ensure they are waterproof and reseal and recaulk if the need be.
Turn off the water supply when leaving home:
The water supply to the washing machine should be turned off when leaving for a vacation. Additionally, homeowners mustn’t leave the house while the washer or dishwasher is running.
Locate the main water shut-off valve:
In the event of flooding from a damaged hose or pipe, the quickest way to mitigate the damage is to turn off the main water supply. Knowing the location of the valve will ensure the homeowner can quickly take action and arrest the potential stress and expense.
Reduce pressure:
Water pressure that lies above the normal range of 40-85 psi can put pressure on the plumbing and cause leaks. Installing an emergency pressure release valve in the plumbing system can prevent pressure leaks.
Insulate the pipes:
. During the cold weather, pipes can freeze leading to cracks and eventual leakage. Homeowners can insulate the pipes and close all external openings that let the cold air come in contact with the water supply lines.

3. Check the exteriors

Windows:
Seal the windows to guard against water seepage. Install window well covers on the basement windows to prevent any debris or water to seep in.
Roof:
Inspect the roof for missing, damaged, or aging shingles. Make necessary repairs to prevent any water leaks. Contract a roofing contractor to do a thorough inspection after a storm.
The downspouts:
Clean the debris that may have been collected in the downspouts and gutters. The water from the downspouts must fall 6 to 12 feet away from the home’s foundations. Metal downspouts are advised due to their durability.
Sprinklers and irrigation systems:
Conduct a regular inspection of sprinklers and irrigation systems to ensure they are not causing any hidden water damage. Older sprinklers tend to turn on by themselves, causing huge damage. Repair or replace them to ensure they don’t cause any damage.
Gutters:
Install gutter guards to prevent any blockages in the gutter and ensure the normal flow of water away from the house. This is necessary to avoid any water accumulation on the roof.

4. Safeguard the contents

1. Storage:
  Contents that are not being used currently and other bulk possessions should be stored in waterproof bins. The usual storage spaces such as basements and attics are prone to dampness.
2. Valuables:
  Important contents such as documents, photographs, and other contents of official or sentimental value must be stored away from spaces that are at risk of water damage and mold growth.
3. Elevate:
  Store belongings above the ground level so a water leakage does not cause instant and irreparable damage.

Why Force 1 Restoration Services?

The professionals at Force 1 Restoration Services can quickly arrive at the damaged residence with the personnel, equipment, and training to begin the water removal, drying, and restoration process. The team of professionals can handle the claims process and total restoration project from beginning to end for its clients.