Identifying Water Damage And Taking Preventative Measures

Clean Masters is committed to providing the highest level of water damage restoration in Charleston. Because we care, we want to let homeowners in on the five most common sources of water damage in our homes to help aid in identifying water damage as soon as possible. The sooner you find water damage the better. Water damage restoration can be a complicated and costly process if the water is allowed to sit for a lengthy period of time. 

1. Leaky Pipes

Pipes are susceptible to erosion over time, and, under excess pressure will burst or leak. Leaky pipes not only cause water damage to our homes but also waste a lot of water each year. In fact, a leaky pipe that drips at a rate of one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water per year. Even slow drips can be detrimental and should never be ignored. You should regularly inspect pipes that you can see for signs of corrosion, condensation on the outside of the pipe, and leaks. The sooner you can find a leak, the less damage your home will sustain (and the more water you can save!).

2. Water Overflow From Clogged Drains

Whenever a drain gets clogged, water is not able to flow where it is supposed to be directed. This will cause water to back up and overflow into your home. Clogged toilets, bathroom sinks, kitchen sinks, and shower drains can lead to detrimental water damage when not resolved quickly. A sign that drains are getting clogged is slow drainage. It is important to clean out your drains regularly to ensure that there is nothing blocking the flow of water. You can buy drain cleaners from your local home goods store, or you can use a homemade mixture of water, vinegar, and baking soda to help clean and clear gunk buildup from your drains. Keeping the flow of water uninterrupted through your drains can save you from extensive water damage. 

3. Appliances

Household appliances, while making everyday tasks more convenient and efficient, can flood your home with water if they malfunction. Some household appliances can cause serious water damage:

• Dishwashers: Dishwashers gain access to water and waste removal through the kitchen sink and garbage disposal. Connections to the dishwasher can become loose or weakened, allowing water to leak. If the drain in your dishwasher gets clogged, water can overflow all over the floor. If your kitchen sink or garbage disposal is clogged, the dishwasher can spill water out. Even using the wrong dishwasher soap, or overfilling the dishwasher, can lead to malfunctions that result in water damage. Be sure to keep your dishwasher (along with its drain and filter) clean regularly, and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for usage to prevent malfunction. If your dishwasher does overflow or disperse water – be sure to contact a professional water damage restoration company to make sure the affected areas are thoroughly dried before mold becomes an issue.
• Washing Machines: Washing machines pump gallons and gallons of water through them with each load. The water hoses need to have secure fittings and should be replaced every 5 years to prevent leaks. Keeping the water hoses secure and in good condition will greatly reduce the risks of water leaks from the washing machine. Washing machines also have the potential to fill over or cause flooding. Don’t overload the washing machine with clothes or use too much laundry detergent. Be sure to have your washing machine routinely inspected.

Professional Water Damage Restoration In Charleston

While these are just a few possible sources of water damage, it is important to be proactive and aware of what could possibly leak or flood water into your home. Regardless of the source or scope, if your home sustains water damage, Clean Masters can provide fast and thorough restoration services. Don’t wait to call Clean Masters in Charleston for all your water damage restoration needs.