Hidden Causes Of Water Damage

Knowing where to look for and what are the different causes of water damage can help you prevent serious damage to your home.  A good understanding of invisible causes of water damage can provide you with not only great techniques to prevent this damage but will also help you save money and keep your home in good shape, preserving its value for years to come.While you can control some of the causes for damage, other cannot be predicted and therefore cannot be prevented.

• Appliances.  Water heaters, washing machines, and refrigerators are likely to leak at some point in their lifetime.  These appliances tend to start leaking slowly, but this leak can grow and cause a flood when they completely fail.  Hoses tend to deteriorate inside out, resulting in leaks as well.  Regular inspection of these appliances is important to prevent problems.  Your water heater should be drained at least once a year to prevent corrosion of the tank, which can lead to tank leakage.
  
  
• Basements.  A wet basement is caused by moisture accumulations that drip through the foundation.  When moisture evaporates, it increases the humidity even if there are no leaks or standing water.  Another common cause is condensation on the cold concrete walls and floors during more humid time periods. 
  
  
• Heating & Cooling Systems.  Neglecting air conditioners leads to poor performance, expensive operating costs and moisture issues.  Moist cooling ducts promote mold and other water-borne bacteria.  It is important to have your heating and cooling system checked at least once a year.  This will ensure that it is working correctly and safely.
  
  
• Pipes.  The common problems in pipes are blocked toilets and drains (especially kitchen drains), failure of the garbage disposal and roots in sewer lines.
  
  
• Plumbing.  Plumbing equipment usually develops leaks due to failures in the joints or hose attachment.  Internal wall leaks are even harder to discover and can cause major damage.  Have your plumbing checked throughout your home once a year.  This can help prevent any water leaking issues.  Also if you suspect a leak have it checked out by a plumber immediately.
  
  
• Weather.  Unpredictable summer storms, floods, and other water accompanied disasters such as; hurricanes, blizzards and tornados are some more reasons for water damage.

You should inspect your home periodically to ensure that it stays in good condition and keeps its market value. A periodic inspection will also help prevent the high-cost restoration projects that can occur after water related disasters.