When excess water pools in places where they shouldn’t, it causes water damage, which has unpleasant effects on your home or business. Different factors lead to the formation of excess water and these should be prevented at all costs.
Knowing what causes the buildup of excess water will help you spot a problem the moment it occurs and prevent it from causing more damage. Let us take a look at the causes and effects of water damage to property.
Causes of Water Damage
For you to determine the best ways to prevent water damage at home, knowing its causes is helpful. Take note though that most of its causes can be prevented by periodic checkups of certain parts of the home. If you do suspect water damage has occurred then you immediately contact a specialist, who will be able to advise you on the proper course of action and hopefully remedy the issue before it becomes too severe.
- Poor plumbing. One of the common reasons for water damage arises from plumbing problems. Some of these issues may happen inside the walls and are difficult to detect. However, problems also occur when the pipe joints and hoses are not fully attached due to poor plumbing services. Reckon & Reckon Plumbing suggests having a professional check your plumbing regularly to help prevent these problems.
- Water heater and HVAC problems. Problems with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units also contribute to water damage. Water heaters and air conditioning units should regularly undergo servicing because improper maintenance can trigger moisture buildup that interacts with mold spores in the units and cause mold to grow. Consult a professional in determining the causes of water heater problems in your property.
- Leaking pipes. This is another common cause of water damage to property. Clogged toilets and drains cause buildup of pressure in the pipe, leading to leakage or breakage. Old pipe connections are more prone to leaking problems as well as problematic garbage disposals. Address clogged toilets and drains at once.
- Attic, basement, and crawl space problems. These damp and dark spaces can encourage mold to thrive, consequently causing structural damage. Basement leaks can be caused by moisture seeping through the concrete foundation of homes. Similarly, attic leaks are caused by moisture from beneath the roof. Make it a point to check for leakages within your homes regularly.
- Faulty appliances. Pipes of old household appliances become rusty and cracked, leading to weak hoses that start water leaks. Refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines are usually susceptible to this kind of wear and tear.
- Natural causes. Although you can’t control natural disasters, there are preventive measures that you can do to reduce its effects on the home. Ensure that drainage around the house is working correctly.
Effects of Water Damage
The first signs of water damage should not be neglected and must be immediately given action. Otherwise, it has the potential to affect not only the physical aspect of your home but also place your family’s health at risk.
- Brings down house value. A history of water damage can significantly bring down your property’s value because of its lingering effects. Should you plan to sell your home in the future, you may have difficulty in finding a reasonable price for it. Prevention and immediate action on water leaks can prevent water damage, thereby maintaining your home’s value.
- Growth of mold and fungi. Mold and fungi produce spores that can float in the air and pose health hazards to anyone in your family. When spores get in contact with water, they can flourish and create unsightly mold formations and cause respiratory problems when inhaled. The effects might be tolerable for healthy people, but if you have family members with weak immune systems, the results are more severe.
- Structural damage. Water damage will cause stains, streaks, and discolorations along the walls. When you notice these unsightly markings, call water damage experts to have your home checked. Also, when you see warping on the walls or ceilings, it is best to have the house inspected for leaks to stop it from causing more problems immediately.
Final Thoughts
Your home is a great investment that should be preserved not only because you worked hard to achieve it but also because it is a place for your family to feel safe and secure. Water damage should be avoided at all times because it can affect not only the aesthetics of the home but also the health of your family members.
