What Homeowners Can Do to Prevent Water Damage
As a new homeowner, the prospect of maintaining and taking care of your home can feel daunting. One of the most important things you can do to protect your home is to prevent water damage and respond to it correctly if it does occur. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or a seasoned homeowner moving to a new home, here are some of the best things you can do to proactively protect your new home from water damage.
Clean & Maintain Your Gutters & Downspouts
When you procrastinate cleaning or repairing your gutters, it can have huge consequences down the road. Your gutters and downspouts help safely direct rain water and other precipitation away from your home. When they’re clogged or leaking, water ends up in unwanted areas, leading to water damage.
Watch Your Water Bills
It can be easy to put your water bills on autopay and then forget about them altogether. But it’s important to keep an eye on your water bills as a new homeowner so that you are aware of sudden spikes. When your water usage increases dramatically with no explanation, it can mean there is an undetected leak or water damage in your home.
Most water utility bills include how many gallons of water your home used during the billing period, but you don’t necessarily have to memorize those numbers to spot usage spikes. Just keep an eye on the total since part of a regular utility bill’s total is calculated based on your usage. If your water bill jumps from $38 one month to $120 the next, it’s time to take a closer look at both the bill and your home to see if you may have a water damage problem.
Monitor Humidity
Humidity isn’t just uncomfortable during hot summer days; it’s also a big risk factor for water damage. When the humidity in your home is high, especially for sustained periods of time, it begins to harm building materials and cause water damage. A humidity level of 30-50 percent is recommended for inside your home. In Willow Grove, PA, where humidity levels reach above 70 percent, many homeowners benefit from investing in a dehumidifier for their home to reduce the chance of humidity-related water damage.
Take Small Signs of Water Damage Seriously
When it comes to water damage, operate on a “better safe than sorry” basis. At Restoration 365, we’ve spoken with so many different homeowners who noticed a small water damage red flag in their home and then dismissed it, only for the problem to grow into a full-blown water damage crisis. Take those small signs of water damage seriously. Here are some small indications your home may have water damage:
- Discoloration
- Bubbling paint
- Musty smell
- Sagging ceiling
- Warped material
If you notice any signs of water damage in your home, call your local water damage restoration company. They can help you determine if water damage is present and then begin restoration.
Install Water Alarms to Detect Water Damage
If you have an area of your home you’re particularly concerned about water damage, consider installing water alarms. The alarm will sound when it detects moisture, giving you early notice of potential damage and peace of mind as a homeowner.
Rely on Professional Water Damage Restoration
The most important thing you can do to protect your new home as a homeowner is to promptly turn to water damage professionals when you’re faced with water damage on your property. Professional restoration teams have the experience and training needed to do the job correctly and prevent recurring water damage issues.
Water Damage in Willow Grove
If you live in Willow Grove, PA, and your home is suffering from water damage, give our team at Restoration 365 a call. We respond to emergencies round the clock so that we can help you get back on your feet as soon as possible.
