The holidays can be a great time to enjoy family and friends and celebrate. However, if you are away from your home for an extended time, water damage may occur. Your property can suffer from leaks, broken pipes, or appliance failures. Discovering water damage on your return after a vacation is the last thing that you want. Water damage can be prevented by following preventive measures and understanding the role a water damage restoration company plays.
Comprehending The Risk Of Water Damage
Water damage does not always result from major events like floods or storms. Plumbing problems such as a running faucet or a drain clog can grow into serious issues if ignored for days or even weeks. The holiday season is a time when cold weather increases the risks. Freezing temperatures can lead to pipes bursting, causing extensive flooding.
Water damage does not only ruin furniture, floors, and walls; it also creates a perfect environment for mold to grow. Mold may begin to form within 24-48 hours of water exposure. This can cause health issues and require professional remediation. This is why it’s so important to prevent water damage when traveling.
Steps To Prevent Water Damage While Traveling
- It Is Important To Inspect Your House Before You Leave
To prevent water damage in your home, it is important to conduct a thorough examination of the plumbing. If you notice any leaks, check the faucets, pipes, and water lines attached to your appliances, such as washers and dishwashers. Even small leaks can become a major problem over time.
Verify that the toilets are working properly. Also, inspect seals at sinks or showers. Be sure to fix any problems that you see before leaving.
- Drain Pipes And Appliances
If you live in an area susceptible to freezing temperatures, draining your appliances and pipes will prevent them from freezing. Open all faucets so that water can flow, and flush the toilets if you want to empty your tanks. You can use compressed air to remove any remaining water.
You can turn appliances like water heating systems into “vacation mode” or drain them to reduce water and electricity consumption.
- Install Leak Detection Devices
Modern technology makes monitoring and maintaining your home easy when you’re on vacation. Install leak detection gadgets that alert you by smartphone when water leaks are detected. Some advanced water systems automatically shut off your water supply when you detect a leak, preventing damage.
The detectors work best near high-risk areas such as water heaters and washing machines.
- Keep Your House Warm
Keep your pipes warm by maintaining a consistent temperature. Set your temperature to 55degF (13degC) or more to keep your home sufficiently warm to protect your plumbing. Open the cabinet door under sinks for warm air circulation around pipes.
If you are out of town for a while, have a neighbour or friend check in on your home periodically to ensure it is still warm.
- Clear Gutters And Downspouts
Water accumulation around your home can lead to foundation problems or leaks if your downspouts are clogged. Before you leave, make sure your gutters are free of debris and downspouts that lead water away. This will help prevent water from seeping into the home during rainy or snowy weather.
The Function Of Insurance In The Restoration Of Water Damage
Be sure to review your home insurance policy before traveling so you know what’s covered in case of water damage. Most standard policies include sudden and accidental water damage, such as a broken pipe. However, they may not cover damage caused by negligence or long-term leaking.
Documenting prevention measures, like shutting off your water supply and inspecting plumbing, will help support your claim if any damage occurs. You can also keep contact information for a reputable restoration company on hand in case of emergency.
Conclusion
It is important to enjoy the holidays and not worry about possible water damage. You can minimize the chance of returning to a flooded home by taking proactive steps such as inspecting your pipes, turning off your water supply, and installing leak detection systems.
If water damage occurs, a professional water damage repair business can provide prompt and efficient assistance to restore your house. Their experience, advanced tools, comprehensive services, and expertise will allow you peace of mind so you can focus on making memories during your vacation.
