What Can Central Seattle Property Owners Do to Prevent Water Damage?

9/12/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers Seattle home areas with advanced water damage removal and restoration equipment

SERVPRO Technicians are Available 24/7 for Central Seattle Water Damage Cleanup

Water damage of all types is one of the most frequently seen restoration services that SERVPRO handles regularly. Unfortunately, problems such as flood damage, pipe bursts, sewer backups, and appliance failures can cause thousands of dollars in repairs to the property, in many cases, the issue was preventable. 

SERVPRO has several recommendations for property owners in Seattle to avoid water damage in their homes. There are actions that homeowners can take both inside and outside their homes to prevent damage from water. 

Clogged Gutters Can Cause Issues 

When gutters have dirt, debris, and leaves, the water cannot flow through as intended and instead backs up and over the top of the gutters. The liquid then runs into cracks and spills around the foundations causing problems ranging from rotten wood to hydrostatic water damage. Seepage into the eaves can result in water damage to the attic. Getting the gutters cleaned regularly or investing in a gutter cover system can eliminate the potential for this type of water damage to a structure. 

Checking Inside the Home for Potential Water Damage Concerns

There are numerous areas within a home that can be at the heart of a water damage situation. A slow leak can be costly in terms of repairs due to the ruined walls, ceilings, and flooring can all require replacement. While technology such as environmental monitoring systems is beneficial, it is a good idea for property owners to make a list of each room in their home, including closets and utility rooms, and look them over monthly for signs of water damage. Common signs of a problem include:

• Water stains on sheetrock
• Nailed raised out of hardwood floorboards due to prolonged moisture exposure and warping
• Buckling of walls or sagging ceilings
• Corrosive build-ups on pipes

Water Use Outside the Home

Good landscaping practices can assist in keeping rain draining away from your property rather than pooling around it. After a rainstorm, walk around the property and look for areas of standing water close to the foundation; these are the places that will need the grade raised to channel the rain away from the house. Also, consider downspout extensions. Sprinkler systems should get inspected yearly during the winterizing blow-out to avoid pipe breaks from freezing temperatures. The loss of pressure within the system can point to leaks that need addressing. 

Appliances are Another Source of Potential Water Damage

Consider how many devices in the kitchen alone use water, such as a fridge with an ice maker and dishwasher are frequent contributors to water cleanup jobs. The washing machine should be checked monthly for splits in the drain hose and drips in the pressurized water lines. A water heater tank, on average, holds around 55 gallons for the typical household. If a failure happens, many gallons can pour onto a floor and can cause significant water damage to a structure and contents. Monitoring systems and regular maintenance can help avoid these issues

SERVPRO of Central Seattle at (206) 282-9500 brings highly trained, IICRC-certified technicians for all types of water damage restoration services. Our experts utilize the latest technology in the restoration industry and are available for Central Seattle property owners 24/7.