Top 5 Water Damage Issues in Homes

7/18/2022 (Permalink)

Water Extraction in a Local Commercial Business due to a faulty sprinkler head.

Water damage in homes can be brought about by many underlying issues, but some of these issues are more likely to be the cause than others. The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety completed a study to find what causes the most water damage in homes, and here are their findings. (*Tip – Make sure you know where your main water line is and that it is able to turn off)

1. Plumbing System Failure - There are two types of plumbing system failures. The first is frozen pipes in which you would need to drain before winter comes (when the main water supply is off). The second would be material failures such as piping, fittings, molding and resin defects, etc.
2. Plumbing Drain System Failure - Most failures occur when the sewer drain backs up and overflows into the home or is a result from material issues such as leaking or corroded pipes.
3. Toilet Failure - This will happen if you have faulty valves or clogged drain lines. You should inspect your toilet’s inner workings about every 6^th months.
4. Water Heater Failure - These typically happen when your water heater has had some internal damage due to rusting, leaks, etc. *Tip – Know how old your water heater is by checking the serial number. The serial number contains the date that the water heater was manufactured.
5. Washing Machine Failure - The cause behind washing machine failure usually from the supply-line, machine overflow or drain line failure.

What you should and should NOT do in the event of a water damage

These are DO's and DON'TS Emergency Tips for water damage. These tips will assist you in taking proper action to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration before help arrives.

Sanitary Water-Clear

DO:

• Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.

DON'T:

• Do Not Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may occur.
• Do Not Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
• Do Not Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items including furniture with stain on wet carpets or floors as this may cause staining.

Contaminated Water-Gray, Black or Sewage

DO:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.

DON'T:

• Do Not Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.
• Do Not Turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
• Do Not Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.
• Do Not Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated area.

In the event of a water damage, make sure to call SERVPRO of Kirkland for your emergency Water and Fire damage mitigation. Contact us at (425) 820-0080! We are open 24/7/365!