Water damage can seriously disrupt your home and drain your wallet, by necessitating the intervention of professional water damage restoration and repair services. In Philadelphia, where weather patterns and aging infrastructure can worsen water-related issues, it’s crucial to understand the common causes of water damage in homes. Here are six common causes of water damage in Philadelphia homes that you need to be aware of in order to take proactive steps to safeguard your property.
1. Plumbing failures
In Philadelphia, older homes with outdated pipes are particularly susceptible to leaks, bursts, and corrosion. Even in newer constructions, poor installation or inferior materials can lead to plumbing failures. Common culprits include burst pipes due to freezing temperatures in winter, worn-out seals, and corrosion caused by hard water. Leaking fixtures such as faucets, toilets, and showerheads can also contribute to water damage over time.
To prevent plumbing-related water damage, homeowners should schedule regular inspections by licensed plumbers, especially before winter sets in. Upgrading to modern, corrosion-resistant piping materials like PEX or copper can provide long-term protection. Additionally, installing water leak detection systems and shutting off the main water supply during extended absences can minimize the risk of catastrophic leaks.
2. Weather events and natural disasters
Unpredictable climate that includes heavy rainfall, storms, and occasional hurricanes can pose significant threats to residential properties. While flash floods can inundate homes, leading to extensive water damage, less severe weather events too can cause problems such as roof leaks.
Prioritizing routine maintenance tasks like gutter cleaning and roof inspections, installing proper drainage systems around the foundation and investing in storm shutters or reinforcing doors and windows can help mitigate the impact of weather-related water damage.
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3. Appliance malfunctions
Household appliances develop wear and tear over time; this can cause hoses, seals, and connectors to deteriorate, leading to leaks or bursts. Common causes of water damage from appliances include washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators with ice makers or water dispensers, and water heaters.
Regular maintenance and inspection of appliances including checking hoses and connectors, and installing automatic shut-off valves or leak detection devices near appliances can help prevent extensive water damage.
4. Roof damage
The roof withstands the full onslaught of the elements and its integrity is likely to get compromised over time, leading to leaks and water intrusion. Common causes of roof leaks in Philadelphia include missing or damaged shingles, deteriorated flashing around chimneys and vents, and clogged gutters.
Regular roof inspections by qualified professionals, repairing or replacing damaged shingles, sealing gaps and cracks, and clearing debris from gutters and downspouts can help maintain the integrity of the roof and prevent leaks. Homeowners should also be vigilant for signs of water stains or mold growth on ceilings and walls, which could indicate a roof leak.
5. Poor ventilation and humidity
The hot and humid Philadelphia summers combined with inadequate ventilation in bathrooms, kitchens, attics and basements can lead to condensation buildup, water damage and even mold growth.
To combat humidity and prevent water damage, homeowners can follow steps like installing exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, using dehumidifiers in basements and crawl spaces, maintaining adequate airflow in attics and sealing air leaks and insulating pipes.
6. Foundation issues
Older Philadelphia homes that have foundations prone to settling or cracking, can experience water seepage through cracks and gaps, especially during periods of heavy rainfall or melting snow. Poorly graded landscaping around the foundation can also contribute to water pooling and drainage issues.
Regular inspections of the foundation by qualified professionals can help identify and address any structural issues before they result in water damage. Repairing cracks in the foundation, improving grading and drainage around the home, and installing sump pumps or French drains can help divert water away from the foundation and prevent moisture-related problems.
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Restoration 1 of Chester County is a top-rated water damage repair company with years of experience and a full range of restoration services. Our professionals are among the most trained and experienced repairmen and technicians in the industry and use the field’s most advanced practices to restore your property to its pre-damaged state. If you are in need of urgent professional water damage restoration and repair assistance, contact us at 610-638-7605.
