Did you know that approximately 40% of homeowners across the country have experienced a loss from water damage requiring restoration services to fix it? Our Irvine homes are highly susceptible to water damage from multiple sources and causes, so it is no wonder that water damage occurs so frequently.
With years of experience performing water damage restoration in Irvine, Flood Pros has seen a fair share of water damage cases. We want to share with you some of the most common causes of water damage that require restoration so you can be more alert and proactive in catching and preventing water damage in your home.
The plumbing system in your home is made up of pipes and joints that bend and turn all throughout your home. Pipes in the plumbing system can become susceptible to clogs, damages, and leaks, especially in older homes. If you notice any water spots or stains, cracks, bulges, peeling paint, or mold on walls or on the ceilings in your home, odds are there is a leaky pipe behind it. It is important to check pipes that you can see like under sinks, behind toilets, in crawl spaces and basements, and even in attics. You can search for signs of leaking water, pooling, extra condensation, or mold growth. If the water pressure running through your pipes is too high for extended periods of time, it can cause excess strain on pipes and cause them to burst. You can gauge your water pressure with a meter that is applied to an outside faucet of your home. Turn it on all the way and watch the reading. If it is between 60 and 70 psi, then you are in a safe range. If it is over 80 psi, your pipes are at an increased risk of bursting. Be sure to buy a monitor to keep it within normal range and reduce the risk of water damage.
As appliances age and with frequent usage, they are more prone to malfunctioning and leaks. Washing machines, dishwashers, and hot water heaters are some of the most common appliances that cause water damage in homes. The pipes that connect the water supply to these appliances can rust, bend, and crack causing water to flood out around the appliance. The connections to these water supply lines can also become loosened over time, allowing water to leak out of them. Another common cause for appliances malfunctioning is improper use or not following routine maintenance and upkeep as recommended by the manufacturer. Using the wrong detergent or overfilling can cause water to flood out and surround your appliances. Be sure to use them as directed and check the water supply lines regularly for signs of leakage.
Sinks, tubs, showers, and even toilets can become clogged with debris and build-up. For toilets, excess toilet paper, toiletries, or feces can block the flow of water and cause extensive water damage. For tubs and showers, hair often gets clogged in the drain, resulting in slow draining water that can cause problems further along in the plumbing system. You can use drain guards to catch excess soap scum and hair before they make their way down the drain, but make sure to clean them out regularly as well. With toilets, make sure that everything flushed is flushable and at smaller amounts to prevent blockages.
While these are only a few of the common causes of water damage, we hope you will be more aware and alert to the signs and steps you can take to help prevent as much water damage as possible. The good news is that regardless of the cause of your water damage situation, Flood Pro is here to help. Contact our team with any questions and when you’re in need of help with water damage.
