PuroClean Of Bloomington 
Water damage is a common problem for many homeowners — and one with many causes, from the weather to ordinary wear and tear. Though sometimes seen as a minor annoyance, water damage can lead to serious complications if left untreated, both for your home’s structural integrity and for you and your family’s health. Check out a few common causes of household water damage and signs you should look for to prevent small drips from turning into a cascade of unnecessary costs.
Plumbing
Your home’s plumbing is one of the most common sources of water damage. Because its function is to carry water to and from your property, any damage — including rust and corrosion — to the pipes or clogged, backed-up drains can cause water to leak and interrupt water flow throughout the house. Spikes in your water bill are a telltale sign of excess water being wasted, but homeowners should also look for physical signs of water damage like stains and cracks.
Roof Leaks
Structural vulnerabilities in your roof can also allow water to leak in, particularly during periods of inclement weather. Severe storms and damage from trees can open areas of your roof where water can drip through, but the age of your shingles can also pay a factor. Stains in your ceiling are a sign that water is leaking through your roof; if it’s collecting in your attic, deal with it immediately as the warm, humid environment is a perfect habitat for mold growth. Have your roof inspected regularly and keep up with scheduled maintenance.
Frozen Pipes
The chill of winter can drastically affect your home’s plumbing. Water expands as it freezes, so if the water in your plumbing is frozen, it could rupture or burst the pipes. Remember to drain water from your spigot before temperatures dip below freezing, and if possible, disconnect or turn off the water line running to the spigot.
Severe Weather
Weather can impact more than just your roof. A power outage can interrupt your sump pump, allowing water to back up into your home with no way of expelling it. Of course, a flood can bring its own set of headaches, saturating your home and everything around it. Prepare for severe storms and power outages with a backup power generator. Review your home’s insurance policies and make sure you’re covered with flood insurance — if you aren’t, speak to your insurance agent and find a policy that works for you.
Improper Drainage
Your home’s gutters and downspouts are designed to drive water away from your home’s foundation. When working properly, they keep your home dry. But if they’re clogged with leaves, dirt, and debris, the water will pool around your home and saturate the soil, which is then forced against your foundation. This process is called hydrostatic pressure and can lead to water seepage and expensive foundation issues for homeowners. To prevent this, clean your gutters and provide a route for water to flow away from your home. Remember to also clean your downspouts as they too can become clogged over time.
Appliances
Unfortunately, appliances don’t last forever. Over time, gaskets and hoses can deteriorate and eventually fail, allowing water to leak and damage floors and walls. Any appliance connected to water — refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters — is susceptible, so be mindful of their age and look for signs of wear and tear. For example, your water heater may provide less hot water than usual before it fails, and your refrigerator may make strange noises.
HVAC
Your central air conditioning system is a must-have during hot and humid summer months, but if it isn’t maintained correctly, the resulting condensation can cause extensive water damage. Scheduling regular inspections and maintenance such as cleaning the filter and unclogging drain lines can not only prevent water from pooling in your home but can also prolong the lifespan of your HVAC system.
Keep your home high and dry — PuroClean water damage restoration technicians are standing by 24/7. For more information, call (309) 433-0900 today.
PuroClean Of Bloomington 