Prevention: Leading Causes of Water Damage
Weather. I don’t think I need to list this out for you but in New York water damage can be triggered by snow, sudden storms, and floods.
Plumbing. Shame on the homeowner if they don’t address visible leaks quickly. Check under your sinks for signs of leaks. Most commonly these are the result of failure on the part of pipe joints or hose attachments. However, it is the invisible wall leak that can result in costly damage to a home.
Pipes. The usual culprits are clogged toilets and drains, blocked up garbage disposals, rusting of pipes and the occasional malicious root growing into a sewer line.
Heating and Air Conditioning Systems. Duct systems that are imbalanced can draw outside humidity through walls that can produce water in the walls. If you fail to service your air conditioner on a regular basis it may result in moisture problems. If you mix the moisture in your ducts with dust in the air (which of course contain mold spores) it can lead to mold problems in your home.
Appliances. Washers, dryers, refrigerators and water heaters will rust with age, causing water to drip or flood if something fails completely. Especially monitor appliances installed upstairs as they are in a position to do heavier damage to your home.
Basements. These are frequently problem areas because moisture in the form of dripping or condensation can accumulate through the concrete or stone foundation of your home.
Attics. Air leakage between the attic and the house will bring moisture into the attic which becomes condensation on the underside of the roof. This can then cause rotting and mold. Areas to watch out for would include recessed light fixtures which aren't airtight, holes for pipes and wires going into your attic, leaky attic access points, and exhaust fans venting into the attic.
About Us→ Our reader's water damage stories→ Return to Home
We appreciate your comments! Help us improve this site by sharing any additional information you would like to see here about water damage repair and restoration; unaddressed questions you have; or other helpful comments. Thank you and good luck with your water damage repair challenge! Remember better safe than sorry!