The Top Causes of Residential Water Damage

8/6/2018 (Permalink)

After the pipes froze and burst in this Bethany, CT home, the water flooded the basement.

As a homeowner, you are at risk of experiencing water damage in your house.

This is true regardless of whether your house is old or new, big or small, in the country or in the city.  From supply line leaks to bathtub overflows to frozen pipes, our water damage restoration team has seen it all here in New Haven County. 

These are the most common causes of residential water damage that SERVPRO of Milford-Orange-Stratford responds to. 

Water Heater Leaks 

Usually located in the basement, a water heater leak can be an especially damaging event because it is not always immediately discovered. Water heater failures occur for a variety of reasons. Often, the leak is caused by a loose or faulty drain valve. Inspecting your heater’s valves and tightening them if needed is an easy way to avoid disaster.  As water heaters age, they can corrode and rust, causing degradation to the tank. This can cause your water heater to leak and flood your basement. 

Clogged Pipes 

Clogged pipes can occur due to several reasons but the result is eventually the same- water damage. Keep a lookout for the signs of a clogged pipe such as reduced water pressure. Look for small leaks from your pipes as well as mildew, mold and water stains on walls.  If water drains slowly in your sinks or shower, that is a sign that your pipes are partially clogged.  If you hear gurgling sounds when there is no water running through your pipes, that may indicate a clogged sewer line.  Educate your family on what items should be disposed of in your toilet to avoid a toilet clog. If you have a septic system, the regular use of enzymes in your toilet and shower drains can help keep them clear.  

Household Appliance Malfunctions 

We have seen water damage from all household appliances-especially refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines. This can occur from a supply line leak – although the line is often small, the water that runs through it is unlimited. Supply lines can deteriorate and fail with age but we’ve even seen new lines break, so keep an eye behind your appliances for potential issues. Replacing rubber hoses with braided stainless steel ones will reduce your risk of a supply line leak. Washing machines can leak due to a water pump failure and broken door seals, gaskets and latches. Regular maintenance of your washing machine is recommended.

Frozen Pipes 

In Connecticut, frozen pipes are a common event and keep our crews busy through the winter months. Pipes usually freeze because the home or area of a home such as a sunroom is inadequately heated. The pipes are forced to expand due to the frozen water, causing the pipe to crack. When the temperature warms up, the water flows freely through the cracks, causing massive damage.   If you lose heat to your home due to a power outage during a snowstorm, feel your pipes to make sure they aren't freezing and use an alternative heat source if available.

Wet Basements 

On the Connecticut shoreline, basements are inherently damp. They are prone to flooding, and are the home to pipes that may leak. If you have high levels of moisture in your basement, install a dehumidifier to dry it out. Make sure that the ground around your home is graded away to reduce flooding. Check your foundation for any cracks that may be allowing water in and seal them up. Broken gutters that are not properly directing the water away from the house can also contribute to basement flooding.  

Sump Pump Failure 

A sump pump can be a life saver if you have a wet basement but if it fails, you can have major water damage. If your sump pump fails to operate, whether due to a power failure, or malfunction, the groundwater level around the foundation can rise to the point that it flows up and out of the sump onto the basement floor. Take the time to inspect your sump part regularly and check your basement if you have a power outage.  

Prompt action is the number one thing a homeowner can do if they have water damage. The sooner the restoration process begins, the less work that will need to be done. SERVPRO of Milford-Orange-Stratford is New Haven County’s water restoration experts. Our team is highly trained and experienced. Call our Woodbridge office at (203) 301-0500 if your home is flooded with water.