Water disasters are unpredictable and can happen at any given time. Even though it is not possible to know exactly if or when a water disaster may occur, there are steps that you can take to help safeguard your Cincinnati home and your budget from water damage and the expenses that come with it.
Water damage restoration experts know that routine maintenance of household appliances can help reduce the risk of water damage in your home. Dishwashers, water heaters, and washing machines all have water hoses that can become loose at the connectors, and can erode and weaken over time. If these hoses are not checked regularly, they can cause serious water leaks that will require water damage restoration. Water hoses on appliances should be replaced every few years to reduce the risk of malfunction. If these appliances do malfunction, they can flood homes with excess water. By following the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper maintenance and performance, you can help extend the life of your appliances, which can prevent risks of water leaks and water damage.
Areas of the home that are not traveled to often, like basements, crawl spaces, attics, and even under cupboards and sinks, are at a higher risk for water damage than highly trafficked areas. Burst or leaky pipes can cause water to pool in these areas of the home and can remain unnoticed until the damage has become severe. You should inspect these areas of your home regularly to be sure that there are no leaks or water damage. Check all pipes in these areas to be sure that their integrity is not compromised, and be sure to repair or replace any old parts.
Frozen Pipes And Water Damage
Frozen pipes are a leading cause of water damage in homes during the winter. When the water in the pipes freezes, it expands and puts extra pressure on the pipe. This pressure can cause leaks or bursts in the pipe, and as the water thaws, it will leak out of the pipe and into the surrounding area. One way to keep your pipes from freezing when temperatures drop is to keep a steady drip of water running through the pipe. As long as the water is moving it will not freeze. Keeping sink cabinet doors open and exposing pipes to heat will also help prevent pipes from freezing. You can also buy insulation for water pipes from convenience stores. This insulation can stay on your pipes year-round and can help trap heat and keep it concentrated in the pipe so the standing water inside will not freeze.
These precautionary steps may require some time and effort, and maybe even a little cash, but the time it takes to provide maintenance to your home is nothing compared to the time it takes to restore water damage. While you may have to invest in new parts for compromised pipes or appliances, that cost is minimal when compared to the cost of water damage restoration. In the long run, it saves money to be proactive, and maintenance is cheaper than restoration. If you do find yourself dealing with water damage in Cincinnati or surrounding areas, call the experts at Flood Restoration Services. We are equipped to handle any size water damage disaster from small drips and leaks to large restoration jobs.
