Common Causes of Water Damage

8/4/2020 (Permalink)

What are the Causes of Water Damage?

Water damage comes in many shapes and sizes; some that are easy to identify and others that are not. Knowing the common causes of water damage can help to prevent future damages to your home. The earlier you can identify water damage, the less time and money will have to be spent by you. 

Leaking or Burst Pipes

Leaking or burst pipes are common causes of water damage. These issues can come from changes in water pressure, temperature changes, or the deterioration of old pipes. Uninsulated pipes are vulnerable in the Winter because they can freeze and burst.

Plumbing Issues

These kind of water damage issues can be hard to detect until there is clear water damage on your walls or ceilings since pipes and hoses are usually hidden within walls. Keep an eye out on your water bill and periodically check for leaks under sinks, toilets, and around showers to find possible plumbing issues that can cause water damage.

Old or Worn Household Appliances

Did you know the average washing machine supply hose fails after just 8.7 years, and 75% of water heaters fail within 12 years? In order to prevent from cracks leading to leaks, appliance hoses should be replaced when you can see any sort of wear. This includes any other appliances that have water hookups, like refrigerators with ice makers.

HVAC Units

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units are also a common cause of water damage. When not maintained, moisture can build up creating water damage and an environment for mold and mildew to grow and spread around your home. 

Sewage Backups

Clogs in drain lines or heavy rains can lead to sewage backup through floor drains, toilets, and sinks. It is absolutely necessary that this type of damage is handled by water damage specialists to correctly decontaminate, sanitize, and restore rooms affected by sewage water.

Now that you know several major causes of water damage in homes and businesses, you can prevent unmitigated damages to your home. But, if disaster strikes, call SERVPRO of Tacoma with any water damage issues.

No job is too big – we have the experience and resources necessary to restore your home to pre-damage conditions!

We’re open 24/7 and waiting for your call. 253-896.3000