Water damage can be a total nightmare for homeowners. It can cause anything from unappealing cosmetic damage to problematic structural damage. As with most problems with homes, it’s usually best to address the root cause of the problem. So what are some common causes of water damage in Utah homes?
Weather
We might be dealing with extreme drought conditions here in Utah, but that doesn’t mean that your home isn’t susceptible to weather-related water damage. Strong winds and heavy downpours don’t have to happen often to damage your roof and allow water to enter. The thunderstorms often associated with Utah’s monsoon season aren’t the only weather to be concerned about. The icy, snowy conditions common to the winter season could cause the formation of ice dams which can also make your home more susceptible to water damage.
Leaks
Sometimes the problem comes from within your home. Leaky pipes can quickly lead to problematic home flooding, especially if they are within your walls. Leaks could be something as simple as a leaky pipe under your sink or something more complex like a plumbing supply line or drainage pipe outside the home. Washing machine water supply line leaks or water heater leaks can also spell real trouble and cause significant damage to your home.
Sprinkler System Malfunctions
Drought conditions may have you watering your lawn less, but it’s still important to make sure your sprinkler system is in good condition. A malfunction could cause some serious problems for your home, especially if it’s located close to your foundation. Foundations aren’t usually meant to deal with that magnitude of water. If the soil becomes overly saturated and the water isn’t able to drain properly, it could make its way through your foundation and flood your home.
You aren’t going to get away from your home being exposed to water in one form or another. What you can do is take steps to minimize the damage it might cause. Get your home professionally inspected regularly so you can keep tabs on its condition. That will help you address problems as they arise before they become more serious.
Mold is a common sign of water damage, but it’s not always easy to identify. Worse still, it can harm your health. Don’t live in an unhealthy home. Click here to learn more about mold testing from Behind The Scenes Home Inspections and to get a quote for a mold inspection or schedule your inspection today!
Comments