Water Damage!

Do you have it? Water is one of a homes biggest enemies. From the roof, to the foundation, to the plumbing in your home, there are many opportunities for water to cause damage. So how do we prevent and/or stop water damage? The key is to be aware and look for warning signs – I have included some of the most critical signs of exterior water damage here:

Warning sign #1: Wet or rotten wood. Wet or rotten wood around doors/ windows and facia and anywhere that wood and fiber siding meet the roof is a sign water is getting in. If you see wood exposed and cracking or you are able to take a screw driver and stick it easily into the wood, it is time to replace it. By taking preventative steps to repair or replace water damaged wood when first noted you can save yourself a big headache in the future. If left untouched water can continue to seep into the wall and damage the plywood and boards behind the framing of the house. Even worse, it could get all the way to the plaster and drywall inside.

Warning sign #2: A leaky roof. If you can get a good look at your roof, do a scan for any missing shingles. If you have large trees close to your home make sure to keep them well trimmed and after storms with high winds it is always a good idea to ensure no branches have fallen onto the roof and damaged it in any way. Inside and out, check the flashing on your home. Flashing can be found on the walls where the roof meets the walls and chimneys. If you are able to get into the attic of your home, look up along your chimney. If you can see daylight, you have a problem with your flashing and water will have an easy pathway into your home.

Warning sign #3: A wet foundation– On the outside of your house it is important that water runs away from the home. Within a ten-foot perimeter around your home, there should be be a six inch drop in ground level. If there is not, dirt can be added around the home foundation to keep water flowing away. Any concrete that is tipping in the direction of the home should either be mud jacked or replaced. Also make sure that downspouts move water away from the home properly. If you have an older home with downspouts going into drain tile, make sure the tile is clean with no blockages. A plumber can run a camera in this tile to confirm things are clear.

As always, I am here to help! If you think you might have water damage or just need a trained set of eyes on a particular spot, contact me.

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