Preparing for Water Damage Inside and Out | SERVPRO of Cape Girardeau & Scott Counties

1/24/2024 (Permalink)

Flooded floor in kitchen from water leak. Damage , Property insurance concept.

Just picture hanging out at home and enjoying a little peace and quiet…and then you spot a growing puddle coming from the kitchen. Or you step off the last stair into the basement, into ankle-deep water. 

There are so many risks to our homes, both internal and external. While Mother Nature sometimes gives us plenty of warning before literally raining down her fury, some disasters can strike without any notice at all. 

Preparing for water damage in your home is the best way to mitigate as much losses as possible and keep your home safe. And the good news is that with a few simple steps you can keep your home prepared year round from water damage inside and out. 

Natural Disasters

We live on the Mississippi, so flooding is something we all have to be very cognizant of. We have seen the banks of the river swell many times, and understand what it means when heavy rains are forecast. 

To keep your home safe, get familiar with your specific risks. Has your area seen extensive flooding in the past, or is your home in a direct flood path? Take note of how your yard drains during a rain storm as well, and add sloping where necessary. Organic materials in your yard or a rain garden can also help increase absorption and drainage as well. 

Keep some home maintenance on your regular to-do list to make sure your home stays safe when flooding is predicted. Your gutters should be cleaned often, and downspouts should be clear of debris. Install a sump pump in your basement or crawl space to keep your basement dry, and make sure your foundation is fully sealed and free from cracks. Seal doors and windows well too. 

Store important documents in a waterproof container on an upper level of your home. Make sure your emergency plan includes contact information and a place for your family to meet together in the event of an evacuation. 

Internal Incidents

Being prepared for natural disasters is crucial for your safety, but not all water incidents are going to come from outside the home. We use a lot of water in our daily lives, and all of the water leaves our home vulnerable to plumbing or appliance failures. 

Just like preparing your home for a natural disaster, preparing for unpredictable accidents can be done with simple home maintenance. Keep a close eye on the areas of your home most prone to water damage, like bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms. 

Check under sinks often for signs of leaks. Watch for moisture, mold or musty odors which are all indicators that there is an issue. Pull out your dishwasher, refrigerator and washing machine every few months. Clean under and behind them while checking for puddles, mold growth or soft spots in the floor. Look at their water lines and check for signs of aging. Even a hole the size a pinhead can result in massive damage when not caught early. 

The more you do on a regular basis to protect your home from water damage, the fewer your losses will be. Even when the unpredictable happens, a prepared home can be restored quickly, especially when you call us right away. We are ready 24/7 to start drying out any water in your home, regardless of the source. 

Do you have water damage in your home? Contact us and get things put back together.