Repairing water damage may not be an enjoyable activity, but it is vital to the longevity of any home should the issues arise. Flooding occurs because of an issue from the structure itself, or due to the location. Water damage tends to occur when there is an issue with the plumbing or the foundation. General flooding can also be a culprit. Water damage is a type of issue where the longer you ignore it, the more expensive it becomes.
Flooding may be out of a homeowner’s control due to where the house is located, or severe weather conditions. The two easiest ways to notice water damage is through the flooring and the ceilings. Wood floors are easily affected by water damage. If water damage is suspected, it would be beneficial to strip the flooring down to the subfloor and inspect for water damage.
A leak in the roof may seep through the ceiling in the form of a stain. Even though the stains may come from a leaky pipe, it’s better to repair it regardless. If left ignored, the condition of the ceiling may be compromised. It’s important to consider that water moves, so the location of the stain may not be the location of the leak as well.
The most expensive issues are cracks in the foundation. Ideally, if the homeowner notices uneven floors or stains in the ceilings, the foundation should be the first place that is inspected. Noticeable damage to the drywall may also indicate that there is a leak running along the walls. Other signs of cracks in the foundation are being able to hear the water moving through the walls or a home that is struggling to retain heat.
The severity of the water damage Fort Worth will help determine if professional help is required. For example, repairing flood damage is easier than repairing plumbing or foundation issues. Once damage to the foundation has been dealt with, the homeowner should make an honest effort to keep water away from the foundation of the home.
The first step would be to inspect the interior and exterior of the foundation. Any inconsistencies should be sealed with cement. Cracks in the foundation should also be sealed with waterproof paint. The more generous the paint is applied, the better the seal. Proper drainage should also be considered but is best assessed by a contractor that has experience with drainage.
Landscaping also plays a big role in keeping water away from the home. Lawn grading is a great way to ensure that water will flow away from the home. Most homes have gutters, installing extensions at the end of downspouts will ensure that water is dispersed as far away as possible when it rains. If there is mulch near the foundation it can accumulate moisture toward the siding of the home. A good rule of thumb is to keep a six-inch space between the home and the mulch to avoid rotting out the foundation.
Although it may seem like a difficult task, water damage can be easily repaired depending on the severity. Water damage is the third most common cause of homeowner loss in Fort Worth. The American Insurance Association states that “water damage claims have been growing faster than other components of homeowners insurance.” According to the AIA, 93% of water damage could have been avoided if homeowners had the awareness to take heed of the signs.
Where many homeowners fail is having too much confidence that they can repair any water damage issue. Many water damage issues cannot be properly assessed by the untrained eye. Most water damage issues occur deep behind the drywall and rot homes from the inside-out. For water damage in Fort Worth homes, it is best to consult a water mitigation specialist to assess the severity before the structure is at risk.
The reason water damage in your Fort Worth home should be assessed as soon as possible is that mold can develop. Certain types of mold can be life-threatening as well as expensive. The best course of action is recognizing the signs and consulting a professional to minimize costs and keep everybody safe and healthy.
