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 in Flagstaff– whether from ice dams 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 of debris. 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:
1– 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.
2– Beware of the risk of electrical shock. Turn off the breaker, and unplug or remove any electrical devices in the water-logged area.
3– 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.
4– Remove furnishings or items that may rust or stain carpet or break during restoration. Lift draperies away from wet carpet.
5– Take photographs of the damage.
Marty Mortensen, Mortensen Custom Plumbing. 928-774-4357
If you encounter standing water in any room, do not enter if the electricity is still on. You might be electrocuted. Call a professional and wait until he or she arrives on the premises. And do not forget, as rule of thumb, to open anything that can be opened to maintain air circulation, so open doors and windows throughout the house.
ReplyDeleteTyrone Nold
Keeping these tips in mind can help us avoid unnecessary water problems. As they say, prevention is always better than cure. So checking your house for possible leaks and malfunction of appliances and furniture is a sure way to help you avoid any expenses related to fixing damage in your home.
ReplyDeleteDiane Blackburn
Being very careful and watchful of those stuff at home which use water helps a lot. We wouldn't want these devices overflowing and doing a lot of damage, especially if we have a wooden floor. Plus, it’s gonna be expensive if we just let it be.
ReplyDeleteCarlene Maysonet