Protecting Older Homes In Washington From Water Damage
It is crucial to protect your older Washington home from water damage due to its more vulnerable structures and aging materials. The following are a few of the best initiatives you can take to protect your home against the dangers of water damage including tips specific to the Washington climate. By taking advantage of these tips, owners of older homes can significantly reduce the risk of water damage and preserve the integrity and value of the home.
Regular Maintenance and Improved Waterproofing
Ensure you are regularly inspecting your roof for any missing or damaged shingles as well as any cracks or leaks. Cleaning your gutters will also help avoid any unnecessary water overflow, which could damage fragile walls. Improving drainage and waterproofing systems will help ensure your old home stays nice and dry in the humidity. Not only is it important to ensure that the top of your house taken care of, but checking the bottom of your house as well. Checking to see if your basement is properly sealed makes all the difference in protecting your home from unexpected flooding.
Plumbing System Upgrades
Regularly inspect and replace old and worn-out pipes checking for any leaks, corrosion, or other signs of wear throughout the system. Replacing these worn-out parts before they leak or burst will prevent water damage before it becomes extreme. It is also helpful to install automatic shutoff valves which will automatically shut off water as soon as water is detected. The sooner water is shut off, the less water damage occurs, and the fewer cleaning services are needed.
Seal Windows and Doors
Regularly inspect the caulking around windows and doors. Check for any cracks or gaps, and replace it as necessary; proper sealing around windows and doors keeps your home water-tight. With time, caulk begins to break down and crack. The average lifespan for caulk is about five years. After this time period, the caulk begins to break down and becomes less proactive in sealing water out. Installing weatherstripping on your doors and windows is another way that can provide an additional barrier against water intrusion.
Maintain Exterior
Inspect the exterior of your home for any cracks or damage. If your walls or foundation have any cracks, gaps, or other damages, make sure you take care of these issues as soon as possible to avoid water seepage. Once these are fixed, a waterproof coating is an extra layer of protection that you can add around your house to protect it against moisture. When it comes to checking your foundation for cracks, a professional inspector is the best route to go. Most house flooding occurs due to unseen foundation damage and cracks.
Weather Related Damage
Ensure you are aware of local weather forecasts, especially with the several heavy storms that occur during the rainy season. Take proper precautions during these times and ensure that your home is prepared. Make a point to trim any trees or vegetation to prevent damage from falling branches due to excessive wind and moisture. Installing a dehumidifier in damp areas can help avoid mold growth in your home, especially in already damp areas within your home. Ensure your home is well-ventilated with good airflow; this will help ensure the air will not hold moisture, mitigating water damage.
If you notice water damage within your home, it is imperative that you call a water damage cleaning service. You want to make sure you know a company with quick, qualified, and reliable 24/7 reliable emergency service that is ready to help you when you need it. Having a company that has certified, highly skilled technicians that will get the job done right. At Continental Cleaning and Restoration, we are IICRC certified with skilled technicians who use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure the water damage restoration service will be done thoroughly and properly to give you peace of mind. Rest assured, your home is in good hands with the help of our team.