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Take a look around your home, and make a list of the items that show signs of wear and damage. Maybe your flooring is looking a bit worn in the high-traffic areas. Perhaps some of your windows have begun to leak, and maybe your oven creaks when you open it. Most of these problems can be corrected without you having to outright replace the offending item. You can instead hire a repair specialist and let them work their magic! Choosing repairs and restoration over replacement can save you a small fortune over time, and it is also better for the planet. Learn more in the articles provided here.

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Looking Good Again

Water, Water Everywhere – But Not If You Take Steps To Prevent It

by Ella Curtis

As a homeowner, one of the most disheartening and costly mishaps you (and your home) can encounter is water damage, and yet it is also one of the most common. Whether it's a broken water pipe, a flooded basement, or a leaky roof, you will have to not only clean up the mess, but most likely repair damages caused by the water. But because the best remediation for water damage is prevention, here are a few tips for cutting your chances of having to deal with costly water damage repairs.

Threats from Outside

Mother Nature can wreak havoc on your home no matter the season. Here's what you need to know so you can help prevent damage:

Roof, doors, and windows. A leaky roof can be devastating to your attic and ceiling. Inspect it regularly and replace any damaged, missing, or loose shingles. If you find algae or moss buildup, it's a good idea to have it professionally cleaned. When replacing a roof's shingles, make sure you install a waterproof barrier under the shingles for an additional layer of protection.

Gutters clogged by leaves and debris can not only damage your gutters but overflow and damage your house's siding. Make sure to clean them regularly. You may also want to install a gutter guard to prevent clogs. Also, caulk and replace worn weather stripping around doors and windows.

Foundation and landscaping. Cracks in your foundation can weaken your home's structure as well as leak water into your basement or crawl space. Inspect your foundation routinely as small cracks can spread or grow wider over time. It's also wise to slope the surrounding soil away from the house.

Some trees and shrubs have invasive root systems that can grow into your sprinkler system, water lines, or septic system causing damage and potentially leaking water down to your foundation. Avoid planting trees and shrubs within 10 feet of water lines or septic systems. Also, drain your sprinkler systems before cold weather arrives to keep them from freezing and bursting because when the water is turned on, it can seep down to the foundation.

Threats on the Inside

The number one rule for mitigating water damage inside your home is to know where the water main shutoff is located. Despite all the steps you take to prevent a water disaster in your home, things happen, and you need to know where to shut off the water supply.

Appliances. Malfunctioning or leaking appliances are a common cause of water damage. Maintain them properly and regularly check them for leaks. If your refrigerator has a water dispenser or ice maker, check the water line hose for leaks. Do the same for your dishwasher. Also, install drain pans under appliances to prevent slow leaks from causing damage.

Washing machines are one of the most common causes of water damage. If the hoses are dry and brittle, they should be replaced. In fact, washing machine hoses should be replaced every 5 years. Your water heater is another common source of water mishaps. Check it annually for leaky valves or corrosion.

Sinks, tubs, and toilets. Regularly check under sinks and faucets for signs of leaks and water damage. Use silicone caulk to seal any leaks you find. Repair any cracks in the tile or grout in your shower to prevent damage to the underlying drywall. Make sure your toilet is not leaking water around its base, and seal with caulk if necessary.

Miscellaneous prevention measures. Install a water detection device in your attic, basement, or under cupboards. It won't stop water leaks, but it can alert you to dampness or a slow leak. Also, monitor your water bill. A sudden jump in usage could signal a water leak somewhere.

Whatever the cause of your water damage, it's important to stop the leak, clean up the water, and if the damage is significant, call a reputable water damage restoration professional. Don't postpone mitigation efforts as harmful mold or mildew can result. Also, most insurance companies will pay only for sudden, accidental water damage.

For more information on water damage restoration, contact a local company.

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