How To Manage Water Damage

Having a home or business property under your ownership can be highly fulfilling, but it also brings a range of responsibilities and potential hazards. Apart from the routine upkeep of the building and property, there is also the risk of damage. Although structural damage can manifest in various ways, the presence of surplus water is among the most prevalent and exasperating causes of harm.

Common Causes and Repercussions of Water Damage

Whether it’s a regular downpour, a flood, or a faulty water heater, unwanted water can cause various issues on a property. Below are some prevalent causes of water damage to homes and businesses:

• Leaky roofs
• Foundation cracks
• Inadequate soil slope around the foundation (resulting in pooling and basement leakage)
• Floods
• Frozen, poorly maintained, or previously damaged pipes/fixtures leading to breakage or bursting

The consequences of water damage can vary significantly, depending on the location and extent of the damage, the amount of water involved, the air movement in the affected area, and various other factors. The damage may range from minor stains to severe and potentially hazardous growth of black mold.

How to Tell if Your Home or Business Has Been Damaged

Water damage can sometimes be conspicuous, such as when a pipe ruptures, causing your floor to turn into a pool. At other times, water can cause gradual damage to your walls or floors, which may remain unnoticed for an extended period. It’s best to address water damage as soon as possible, so it’s essential to look out for the following signs:

• Water spots on walls or ceilings, especially if they continue to expand
• Yellow or copper-colored stains on room or basement walls (indicating prior flooding)
• A musty odor, especially in the basement or crawl space
• Black spots, which can suggest mold growth
• Visible water pooling in the house or around the foundation
• Warped floorboards
• Foundation damage
• Roof/shingle damage that may allow rainwater to seep in

If you observe any of these indicators, especially if you notice more than one simultaneously, you may have a water leak or another concealed issue that requires attention before you can rectify the visible damage. Even if the staining or spots seem minor, the situation behind the wall may be much more severe than it appears on the surface.

What to Do if You Find Water Damage

If the source of the damage is ongoing, like a broken pipe that continues to leak, the first step is to shut off the water main, which should be easily accessible on your property. It’s wise to become familiar with the location of this valve and how to operate it before such an incident occurs. After stopping the water flow, you can start drying out the area and salvaging any affected belongings. It’s recommended to call a professional plumber to fix the leak and restore water to your home.

If you notice a water spot, staining, or possible mold growth, it’s best to contact a professional plumber, roofer, or water damage restoration company to assess the situation and determine if there’s an ongoing issue. If the damage appears to be from the roof, it’s advisable to contact a roofing company. If the damage seems to be around the base of your toilet, calling a plumber is the right move.

Checking the original inspection report from when you purchased the property is also a good idea. It’s possible that something you requested to be fixed was not adequately addressed, or the previous owners may have been aware of an issue they didn’t disclose. Additionally, you should review your insurance policy and contact your agent if you suspect the damage may be covered.

Addressing the Damage

Upon arrival, a professional will first deal with any emergencies such as stopping continued water flow and then proceed to assess the extent and nature of the damage. To do this, they may need to access areas such as the attic, crawl space, or other unusual locations, so be prepared to provide access as necessary. After completing the inspection, the professional will discuss a plan of action with you.

If leaking pipes or fixtures cause water damage, a plumber will replace any damaged parts to prevent future water damage and may assist with the removal of standing water if necessary. For issues such as mold growth, warped floorboards, or unsightly wall stains, you will need to schedule specialized removal and repair work with an appropriate contractor. Addressing mold is especially crucial as it can cause allergies, illness, and further damage.

Prevention Is Key: Avoid Leaks and Fix Existing Damage with the Help of MET Plumbing

Water damage can be expensive to repair once it occurs, making prevention and regular maintenance crucial. To avoid water damage, it’s important to ensure that all plumbing and water-related fixtures in your home or business are in good condition. Even seemingly normal pipes can rupture or leak, so it’s best to have a plumbing professional check and replace old pipes to avoid future damage.

MET Plumbing & Air Conditioning, a family-owned business with over 20 years of experience in the plumbing industry, provides emergency repair services, maintenance, and pipe replacement to help prevent water damage. Contact them at 281-603-9949 to learn more about their plumbing solutions and how they can help you avoid water damage in your property.