Are you struggling with water damage issues in your home that you can’t seem to pinpoint the origins of? If you need help identifying the source of your home’s water damage symptoms, you can start by understanding the common causes of water damage in your home.
Clogged Gutters
Clogged gutters are the start of many issues around the home, including water damage. If leaves, debris, and snow or ice clog your gutters, water running off your roof has nowhere to drain. This may cause water to seep in through gaps in your shingles or run down the siding of your house, collecting in pools near your foundation. Water that sinks into your home’s roof or foundation can cause water marks, stains, and mold growth, which weakens the structure of your home over time.
Indoor Plumbing Issues
Leaks and broken pipes are also common sources of water damage, which stem from bad indoor plumbing. If you notice your kitchen or bathroom sinks dripping water or leaking underneath, it’s time to call your local plumber before the issue worsens. Plumbing problems won’t fix themselves. So it’s best to solve these problems before your plumbing breaks down any further and causes more water damage.
Severe Weather
Severe weather is out of our control as homeowners. But it’s a common cause of water damage all the same. Floods are some of the most common and destructive sources of water damage, along with hurricanes and thunderstorms. Even blizzards and snowstorms can lead to water issues. The high winds might damage your roof, leaving an opening for melting snow and ice to enter later. Also, watch for ice dams on your roof, as these can tear your gutters clean off the roof.
Sump Pumps and Other Appliances
Sumps pumps help protect your home from flooding and mold growth by removing excess water. But during extreme weather events and power outages, they may stop working. This leads to a buildup of water that can flood your basement or crawlspace. Other appliances in your home, such as your washing machine or refrigerator, can also start to leak if their installation is faulty or old. So keep an eye on your sump pump and home appliances.
Now that you know these common causes of water damage in your home, you’ll have a better idea of how to identify water damage issues in the future. You can also take steps to prevent water damage by inspecting these areas regularly. And it always helps to know your local water remediation company so that you’re ready when the time comes to get some professional help.
