Water is the sort of thing you can’t live without that can turn your home unlivable in a matter of moments. It’s the most common source of home damage – whether from big storms or leaking pipes, roofs and appliances.
The preferred way to deal with water damage, obviously, is to prevent it from occurring at all. For example:
- Check household appliances regularly, including water heaters, washing machines, dishwasher, refrigerator and air conditioner. Inspect hoses. Look for leaks and signs of wear.
- Check doors and windows to see if water is able to seep through.
- Check the plumbing, including sinks, showers, bathtubs and toilets. Are pipes leaking? Is water collecting in any place? Are there cracks or holes?
- Inspect your pipes. If they’re behind walls, under floors or above ceilings, look for signs of water stains on walls, floorboards and ceiling panels. For a thorough review schedule a professional plumbing inspection annually.
- Inspect the roof for lost and cracked shingles or other signs of deterioration. Keep gutters and drains clear.
If significant water damage does occur in your home, you’ll need the help of professionals for repairs, as well as an insurance adjuster to file a claim. But there are several things you can do in the meantime to contain the damage:
- Stop the source of the water. If it’s coming from a pipe or hose, shut off your home’s main water valve. If it’s coming from the roof and you can access your attic, use something to catch the water like a large plastic sheet or pans and buckets.
- Beware of the risk of electrical shock. Turn off the breaker, and unplug or remove any electrical devices in the water-logged area.
- Open windows and turn on fans or heating and air conditioning systems to prevent the growth of mold and mildew and also to promote drying.
- Remove furnishings or items that may rust or stain carpet or break during restoration. Lift draperies away from wet carpet.
- Take photographs of the damage.
Of course anytime you have water damage occurring due to plumbing problems we are here to help. Just give us a call at 918-742-6171 and we will be glad to assist. Also we offer to our Performance and Reliability Agreement customers a free annual plumbing inspection. This is the best way to avoid a water disaster in your home or place of business.
Bill Russell Plumbing, Heat & Air Company
