Water damage is a common problem in homes. Whether it stemmed from a broken pipe, a sink overflow, a roof leak, an appliance malfunction or a sewer backup, water damage is an issue that needs immediate mitigation, no matter how minor. In as little as 24 to 48 hours, mold can start developing. If left unchecked for long periods of time, water damage could rot wooden building materials, compromising structural integrity which may eventually lead to collapse. Unattended mold growth could also cause allergies and aggravate existing respiratory conditions.
When water damage happens, it is necessary to contact a professional like ServiceMaster by Reed to perform repairs and prevent the damage from getting worse. The best way to counter water damage, however, is still to prevent it from happening. ServiceMaster by Reed has compiled these tips to help prevent water damage in your home.
Water Damage Prevention Tips
Check plumbing for leaks.
- Leaks on visible pipes can easily be detected, but to monitor breaks down the pipeline, a homeowner can invest on a good water leak detector to locate a hidden leak as soon as possible.
- As soon as you notice a leak, call a licensed plumber to have it repaired.
Clean clogged gutters and drains.
- Gutters and drains are designed to allow water to flow away from your home.
- If gutters or drains are blocked with leaves, branches and other foreign materials, water could pool and seep into the attic, ceiling or foundation, creating a leak or flood.
- Regularly remove obstructions from your gutters and drains to allow water to move freely.
Repair or replace malfunctioning appliances.
- Have your defective washing machine or dishwasher repaired immediately before it breaks down and causes severe water loss.
Check your basement and sump pump.
- Basement water damage manifests in the form of leaks, peeling paint and musty odors, to name a few. Inspect your basement regularly and watch out for these signs.
- A sump pump is equipment designed to move water, especially floodwaters, away from your basement. If you live in an area with a high risk of flooding, such as near the coast, have your sump pump inspected and repaired as necessary to prepare for future storms or flooding.
Inspect your roof.
- Over time, your roof could undergo natural wear and tear from the elements, causing damages to shingles, flashing or the roof structure. These could permit massive water entry especially during periods of severe weather, such as hurricanes or heavy rain.
- Since the hurricane season has started in the Atlantic, it’s high time to call a professional roofer to inspect your roof and repair the damages to prevent more problems when a hurricane strikes.
If you’ve taken the necessary precautions but find yourself in a water damage emergency, it’s time to call an expert restoration specialist to assess the damage, create a customized restoration plan according to your budget and schedule, and begin disaster mitigation as soon as possible to bring your property back to pre-loss condition immediately.
Make an Appointment with One of Our Restoration Experts
Do not delay water damage mitigation. ServiceMaster by Reed is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at (954) 922-2020 to assist residential and commercial property owners with water extraction, drying and restoration needs in Hollywood, Florida and the surrounding areas.
- We offer FREE estimates for all insurance claims
- We bill insurance directly, so you don't have to
- 100% guaranteed work with years of industry experience
You may also connect with us online to schedule an appointment, or email us at smreedoffice1@aol.com. Our office is located in 1210 Stirling Rd. Unit # 8A Dania Beach, FL 33004.
An independent franchise business licensed to serve you by ServiceMaster Restore®.