Avoid soggy disasters with these tips

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage is one of the most common and costliest disasters your home can experience, costing billions of dollars annually.  Avoid soggy disasters with these tips:

Prevent basement water seepage:

• Reseal your basement. 
• Make sure water drains away from the building. 
• Install a backwater valve to prevent sewage from coming into your home. 

• Inspect appliance hoses and faucets. 
• Inspect the seal and caulking around showers and tubs. 
• When away on vacation, shut off the water supply to the washing machine. 
• Know the location of the main water shut-off valve in your home to react quickly if you have a water leak. 
• Install an emergency pressure release valve in your plumbing system to prevent pipes from bursting. 
• Check plumbing and heating pipes for cracks or leaks. 

Repair and protect your home's exterior.

• Caulk and seal windows to guard against water seepage.
• Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles.
• Check your downspouts and remove debris. 
• Check sprinklers and irrigation systems. 
• Install gutter guards to prevent clogs.

• Store off-season and other bulk belongings in waterproof bins. 
• Never store valuables or memorabilia where there is risk of destruction from water. 
• Keep belongings stored on shelving off the floor in basements. 
• Keep and up-to-date home inventory.