10 Tips to Prevent Water Damage
Insurers have warned property owners that neglecting leak treatment for several months will significantly increase the cost of repairs. In many cases, insurance companies refuse to cover secondary damages that result from neglectful treatment.
Property owners and insurance companies are significantly affected by the issue of water damage and the resulting implications. How then can water damage be avoided before it becomes significant, complex and expensive to repair?
Install a water damage detection and prevention system
These systems can detect leaks in certain places on the property where a flood detector is installed and alert the property owner. The systems are easily installed and in the case of abnormal flow detection they allow automatic shut off of the main water valve to stop water flow to the property. Some systems include remote control via a smart app.
Install an irrigation controller in your garden or yard
When it comes to treating a large yard or garden, detecting water damage can be more complicated, but in this case too, there is a solution. A smart irrigation controller will allow you to locate faults and water damage in the garden or yard and will also help significantly improve their treatment. In addition to detecting faults and damages, the controller will help you save a lot of money on garden maintenance. As the controller knows the exact location of the user and is based on Internet infrastructure connecting it to web weather channels, it can automatically stop the irrigation system, in cases where it is expected to rain. This is of course a significant saving on both money and water. Preventing unnecessary waste of water is also a very environmentally friendly solution.
At least Twice a year you should clean the gutters and ducts in the property to avoid water blockages. Unfortunately, this doesn’t stop the possibility of water causing damage to the sewage system and the roof which can lead to flooding and additional damage such as mold. Make sure the drain point is not blocked by the walls of the building and that water flows freely out of it.
While this sounds obvious, quite a few people are completely unaware of where the property’s main water valve is. It is important to know where it is to be able to shut it off when necessary.
Sometimes our daily routine prevents us from paying attention to the problems in our property. Occasionally, you may want to check that there are no leaks in the toilet, leaking taps or a leak from the washing machine. Perform the tests according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Pay particular attention to the flexible plumbing leading to the toilets, the water bar and the washing machine.
If leaks are ignored, the next step is to repair mold and rot damage, which is significantly more expensive.
If you spot wet or peeling points, it’s probably a leak. Don’t neglect taking care of them even if they seem to you something small and negligible. The sooner you identify such points, will you be able to prevent greater and more costly damage to repair.
If the water pressure is too high, pipes and taps may explode as a result. You can purchase a pressure gauge, a device that connects to one of the central taps. The gauge gives an indication of the water pressure in the property, with the standard ranging from 40 to 70 PSI (pound-force per square inch). If the water pressure exceeds 100 PSI, it is recommended to install a water pressure regulator.
A very simple check can help you understand if something is wrong with your water system. If you suddenly spot an unusual jump in water costs, you must ask yourself, “Is there a leak in the property?” or “Maybe it’s the plumbing in the yard?” Do not leave these questions open.
In case of leakage or flooding, penetration of water into the cracks in a wall can cause significant damage to the structure. Early treatment of cracks and fractures will reduce the damage done and consequently reduce the repair costs also.
Are you looking for a water damage detection and prevention system?
