How to Prevent Water Damage

Prevention is a whole lot cheaper than repairs. Water damage is the number one culprit that weakens your home’s foundation. When water damage hits your home’s foundation, over time it can cause structural damage. Damp wood is also inviting to termites, carpenter ants, mold and mildew. In this blog, we cover 3 simple strategies for preventing water damage. With these strategies you can have peace of mind the next time a storm hits.

Ensure Good Drainage

Poor drainage can weaken your foundation, cause cracks, and create pathways for water to enter your home. To prevent this, try the following:

Make it a point to clean your gutters. A clogged gutter will send excess water down the side of your house, which can damage your siding and foundation.
Check your downspouts. Ensure that they are directing water 5 to 10 feet away from your home.
Make sure your yard is appropriately graded. If your yard has a slight slope, it will keep water from getting down into your foundation.

Check for Leaks and Fix Appropriately

Persistent leaks can lead to mold and mildew, wood rot, and even termites and carpenter ants. However, if you fix a leak soon after it starts, there may not be any long-term damage. Check out the list below for tips on where to start looking for leaks:

Check for dark spots under pipes and in cabinets, stains on the ceiling, and of course drip marks.
Once a year, inspect your roof and repair missing, loose, and damaged shingles.

Test your Sump Pump

If you have a sump pump it can be a lifesaver during storms–but during a storm is the worst time to realize it isn’t working. That’s why it’s recommended to check your sump pump once a year, but ideally several checks should be done during storm season. To test your pump, follow the steps below:

Slowly fill your sump pump’s pit with water and watch for the float to rise.
Once the float rises it should trigger the pump to turn on and drain the water.
Test your backup pump with the same steps, but first unplug the main pump.

For Complicated Jobs, Call Terry’s Plumbing

Simple plumbing leaks can be handled with a bit of knowledge and a good toolbox. However, homeowners aren’t equipped to handle every plumbing mishap. For complex problems, like pipe replacements or burst pipes, call on the team at Terry’s Plumbing. Get in touch today to discuss your needs and get a project quote.