Watch Out for Water Damage

Initial signs of water damage in your home might seem a bit trivial.  Unfortunately things like water stains on ceilings, or that small leak under the sink, can mean you might have bigger problems.  Why take chances?  Learn where your home is most likely to suffer damage and what steps you can take to prevent it.

One of the first places to check is the Kitchen appliances.

• Dishwasher — Every so often you should be checking for leaks where the hose connects to the water supply.  Look around the base for evidence of leaks, such as discolored, warped or soft cabinet flooring, or water damage to other wooden areas around it.
• Refrigerator — One of the biggest trouble spots on your refrigerator is the ice maker.  Once again, make sure the hose is securely connected to the water line.  Also, any wet spots on the floor around it are often a sure sign of some type of line leak or backup.  Check on these immediately.

The next area to watch is the bathroom.

• Bathing Areas — Showers and bathtubs take a lot of abuse and daily use.  Be sure to replace any cracked or missing group and keep all seams caulked to stop any water leakage from this area.
• Toilets — There are many opportunities for leakage including that around the base of the toilet.  This is typically a sign of a failed wax ring (what seals the connection from your toilet to the drain).  In addition, periodically run your hand around the bottom of the toilet tank — check for water.  If found, it is best to have the tank re-built with new parts.  Another problem, although not leakage on the floor, but leakage from the tank into the bowl.  If the toilet fills itself without you being there, this means the tank flapper is leaking and needs to be replaced.  Another way to test is to put food color in the tank.  If you notice any of the food color in the bowl after 15 minutes, then the tank flapper is leaking.

Finally one of the last areas to go over is your Laundry or Utility Room.

• Washing Machine — They are notorious for having hoses bust when you least expect it.  With this in mind, be sure to regularly check your hoses for cracks, bulges or leaks.  We suggest replacing hoses every 3 to 5 years as a preventive measure — be sure to use the new wire-mesh hoses.
• Water Heaters — They are another source of surprise water damage.  Most last 8 to 14 years.  Wet spots underneath the heater can spell trouble.  In addition, excessive rust along the top can also signal a leak or failure.  You should always install your water heater on the lowest level of your home, near a drain or at the very least, a drain pan.

CLIENT TIP:  Make sure everyone in your household knows where the water shut-off valve is located and how to close it in an emergency!