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Knowing how to protect your home from water damage is so important. Your home can be your most significant life investment. So you want to make it a haven for yourself and your family. Unfortunately, several factors, including water damage, can make this impossible. A study suggests that one in six UK homes is at risk of flooding due to storms and sudden heavy rainfall attributable to extreme weather conditions. Signs such as unpleasant marks, mould growth, and pooling water inside walls and basement corners can suggest water damage. Here is how to protect your home. 

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Maintain your trees and plants 

It is pleasing to see your shrubs flourishing. Tree roots are drawn to water, so even the smallest leak can attract them. However, they can aggressively grow and invade your drains and pipes and possibly burst them. For this reason, it is advisable to avoid landscaping near your utility pipelines. Therefore, consider removing your overgrown trees since they can damage your pipes and result in water leakage, low water pressure, and unexpected high water bills. What should be minor plumbing can turn into a significant and time-consuming issue when left unattended. 

Keep your gutters clean

Many people assume blocked gutters are an October problem since leaves are the main cause of choked gutters. However, other elements such as weeds and moss can also block these channels. Unfortunately, this usually leads to dampness, so it is best to keep your gutters clog-free. Some signs it’s time to clean them include water streaming down the side of your property or when your drooping gutters. Cleaning your gutters would allow smooth water flow. You can consider companies like Gutter Boy Cleaning for expert cleaning to ensure the best protection for your home.

Inspect and fix leaks 

It is important to quickly act when you notice any sign of a leak in your house. Your home will develop mould, dry rot, mildew, and suffer structural damage when leaks are left unattended. Even the most minor leaks can lead to significant and costly damage to your property. It is okay to purchase a homeowner’s insurance plan; however, they usually cover only accidental and sudden damages. Regularly inspecting and taking preventative measures is crucial since the standard homeowner policies do not cover water damages caused by a lack of maintenance. Inspect underneath sinks and areas around appliances like washing machines for stray water signs.

Prevent pipes from freezing 

Circulating warm water inside your pipes can prevent freezing damage. It is recommended to use a smart thermostat to keep your home temperature around 10 degrees Celsius if you expect to be gone for a while. Also, switch off the water supply at the stopcock and empty your drains to ensure no water is left inside. Sealing crawl spaces, closing your garage doors, and tapping exposed pipes can also prevent your pipes from freezing and manage the risks of water damage on your property. 

Keeping your home dry becomes a top priority when it rains or storms. Look out for common water damage signs and consider the tips mentioned above to protect your home.

Looking for tips on spring cleaning? Check out: Spring Clean, Where To Get Started