Water damage is one of the most common misfortunes a home can experience. That is especially true for areas such as Miami, FL, which are prone to hurricanes and floods. In fact, according to research, the flooding hazard in Florida communities is increasing due to the rising sea level. And while floods can’t be stopped, there are a few easy things you can do to prevent water damage in your Miami home.
Reseal Your Basement
Basement floods are mostly caused by floor slabs or cracks in the building foundation. Once you notice water infiltration where there was none before, it means that the basement walls are now vulnerable to future floods. That’s why you should paint vulnerable areas with a water sealant to prevent further seepage.
Cover Your Basement Windows
Another vulnerable spot of any basement are its windows, as water can easily seep through them during downpours. As such, you should consider strengthening your basement windows with some covers. However, keep in mind that not all basement window covers prevent water damage, as some are more reliable than others. For instance, polycarbonate is a much better choice than the basic plastic cover.
Inspect Your Roof
Although most floods affect your basement, the roof is also an essential piece of the puzzle, as it protects your home from rain. Because of that, you should constantly inspect your roof for any missing shingles or holes. Otherwise, you might end up with a soaked ceiling, mold, or structural damage.
Clean Your Gutters
Debris, leaves, and branches can clog your gutters, rendering them useless during heavy rain. As a result, the excess water can drip down your siding, which can compromise your home’s structural integrity. Additionally, it can lead to mold growth, turning your home into a health hazard. That’s why you should constantly check your gutters for any clogs and remove them as soon as possible.
Install a Backwater Valve
Sometimes, floods and heavy rain can cause sewage water to seep back into your house, damaging your plumbing. One easy way to prevent sewage water damage is to install a backwater valve. It uses a flap that closes when sewage water tries to enter your home during floods. Besides that, the backwater valve can be upgraded to reroute excess water to the irrigation system.
Upgrade Your Plumbing
Outdated and old plumbing systems are prone to leaks, which can lead to water damage inside your walls and floors. You should consider upgrading your old plumbing, even if it doesn’t show any signs of damage. That way, you can prevent leaks that you may not detect until it is too late.
Check Your Landscaping
While shrubs and trees can increase the curb appeal of your home, they can also lead to more water damage. For example, their roots can wrap around pipes and eventually break them, causing floods. Likewise, tree branches can damage your roof during heavy rain, puncturing it and allowing water to infiltrate your home. You need to take a look at your landscape and remove any potential risk factors.
Inspect Your Appliances
Older appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines are prone to leaks. Because of that, you need to constantly check for any puddles or pooling water near such appliances. If you notice any leaks, you will have to shut down the main water supply and discover the source of the leak before it manages to damage your floor and walls.
Final Thoughts
All in all, water damage is extremely common, especially in Miami, Florida, and other similar high-risk areas. As such, you should inspect every aspect of your home and find any weak spots before water manages to find a way in. After all, protecting your home is much easier than repairing the damage done by floods.
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