Sources of Outside Water Damage

4/16/2021 (Permalink)

There are many ways that water can infiltrate your home, often when you least expect it. It will destroy everything in its path and take over your entire world. In addition to increased stress levels, unexpected water damage can cause displacement for you and your family. Only a certified and insured restoration company should be trusted to mitigate the damage to your home. SERVPRO of Hammond is your local resource to get your home back in working order.

Water damage can occur from both interior and exterior sources. Below are some ways you can help prevent water damage inside your home that comes from outside sources.

Roof

• Ensure that shingles, flashings or tiles on your roof aren’t missing, broken, cracked, curled or damaged in other ways.
• Cut tree limbs that hang above your roof so they don’t cling to shingles and trap moisture.
• Make sure the vents, flues, chimneys, air conditioners, and evaporative coolers are properly installed and in good shape.
• Check for leaks around rooftop air-conditioning units, vents for exhaust or plumbing, or other specialized equipment.

Gutters and Downspouts

• Clear gutters and downspouts from leaves, twigs, and other debris. Also, check that they are in good condition so that water can flow freely. You can do this by installing metal screens to help prevent clogging.
• Ensure downspouts direct water at least five feet away from your home’s foundation. This helps direct water away from the foundation. Downspout extensions can be added if needed.

Doors and Windows

• Install window well covers to help prevent water and debris from getting trapped and causing water to eventually seep into your basement.
• Check for leaks near the corners of your doors and windows. Signs of leaks include peeling paint, paint discoloration or swollen frames.
• Installing overhangs or awnings above exterior doors and windows protects them from the sun, rain, and snow.
• Check for a tight fit on closed doors and windows. Any cracks between the sash and frame Close your doors and windows to check for a tight fit. Repair or replace damaged flashing or weather-stripping.

Walls

• Check for and repair cracked or broken siding boards, bricks, stone or another masonry, and structural sheathing.
• Remove any shrubs and other landscaping features from along the walls, and avoid directing water towards the house when irrigating the garden and plants to prevent excessive water near the foundation.
• Seal any openings from wiring, plumbing, phone, cable, and heating and air conditioning lines with foam or caulk. Repair any damaged or unpainted wood surrounding these openings.
• Termites can eat wood, plaster, and even metal siding causing holes and compromising structural integrity. Check for signs of termite activity on the walls and the wooden structures around your foundation.
• Ensure that the exhaust vent doors properly open and close.

Following these steps can help protect your home from exterior water damage. If water does happen to sneak into your home, make sure to have SERVPRO of Hammond on speed dial 985-542-7388. We’ll be there to make it “Like it never even happened.”