As plumbers, we know all too well how devastating water damage can be for homeowners. Not only can it take quite a dip into your savings, it can disrupt your lifestyle and cause major headaches to coordinate repairs. Luckily, there are proactive steps you can take to avoid some common causes of water damage in homes.
Let’s work from the outside in…
Keep those gutters clear
It’s not a fun job, we know, but it’s definitely necessary to properly protect your home. We’d recommend clearing out your gutters and downpipes at least twice a year and whenever you notice a significant build up. This will prevent still water from accumulating and reduce the possibility of overflow getting into your roof.
Cleverly plan your landscaping
Did you know the type and placement of plants can have an impact on your plumbing? It’s true! Roots are necessary for your vegetation to thrive, but they can be a terrible nuisance for a sewer line.
To prevent roots from entering the pipe and causing blockages, make sure your landscaping is planted away from sewer lines. If you’re not sure where these are in your yard, your local council may be able to help you out.
If you plan to do the landscaping yourself, research which trees and plants suit your yard size and have small, non-invasive roots.
Know where your water main shut off valve is
When trouble arises, it’s good to know how to quickly shut off the water to your home to prevent further damage. Make a mental note of where your water main shut off is and make sure you know how to access it. This is not only helpful for those emergency situations, it’s also a good idea to turn off water to your property whenever you’re doing reno works or before leaving your property for extended periods, such as the family holiday.
Maintain your appliances
Appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines are there to make our lives easier, but sometimes they can be the source of devastating damage. Carefully read the manuals for any appliances you buy and be sure to follow the installation and care instructions. Ensuring the hoses are free from bends and damage and regularly cleaning out drains will help to ensure your appliances work the way they should – without getting water all over the floor.
While many issues can be seen with the naked eye, small leaks can often go undetected until they become a larger issue. Carefully go over your water bills each month, if there’s a sudden increase in usage you can’t explain, it may be time to do some further research.
