Top Causes of Water Damage & Home Protection Tips

Water damage affects buildings on so many levels. When water creeps into areas of your property where it shouldn’t be, your floor could warp. Water damage also discolors beautifully painted walls. All that moisture can also lead not only to the formation of mold inside the building but also to a vermin infestation. Worst of all, water damage that isn’t immediately addressed through water damage restoration could eventually weaken the foundation of any building.

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Water damage is also deceptively costly. You might think that an inch or two of water flooding your home or business wouldn’t burn a hole in your pocket, but there have been cases where that little amount of water has caused damage that cost tens of thousands of dollars to repair and restore.

The worst thing about water damage is that it can happen anytime. This article dives deep into the most common causes of water damage, the warning signs you should never ignore, and expert tips to prevent water damage in your home. Understanding these factors is the first step toward safeguarding your property and wallet.

1. Burst or Leaking Pipes

Burst or leaking pipes are among the most frequent causes of home water damage. Pipes can fail for several reasons, including extreme weather, age, corrosion, or improper installation. During winter, freezing temperatures can cause the water inside pipes to expand, leading to cracks or bursts. This is especially common in unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, or attics. Similarly, over time, pipes made from materials like galvanized steel or copper can corrode, resulting in leaks that gradually compromise your home’s structural integrity.

Small leaks might seem harmless initially, but they can lead to significant damage if ignored. For instance, a tiny crack in a pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water over a single day, soaking walls, flooring, and ceilings. This moisture creates an environment conducive to mold and mildew, which can cause health issues for your family, especially if anyone has allergies or respiratory conditions.

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How to Avoid It:
Regularly inspect your plumbing system for visible wear, leaks, or corrosion to prevent pipe-related water damage. Pay special attention to exposed pipes in unheated areas during the winter months. Insulating these pipes can help protect them from freezing. Additionally, monitor your home’s water pressure to ensure it doesn’t exceed the recommended level (around 60 PSI). If you notice any signs of leaking or suspect a problem, call a professional plumber to address the issue immediately.

2. Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are a common issue that can lead to significant water damage if not addressed promptly. Over time, debris like hair, soap scum, grease, and food particles can accumulate in your drains, reducing water flow. In severe cases, these blockages can cause water to back into sinks, showers, or toilets, potentially overflowing and damaging floors and walls.

While clogged drains might seem minor, their impact can be far-reaching. Backed-up water can saturate cabinetry, subfloors, and drywall, leading to costly repairs and mold infestations. Additionally, stagnant water in a clogged drain can create a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, posing a risk to your family’s health. In multi-story homes, an overflowing drain on an upper floor can cause water to seep through ceilings, resulting in even more extensive damage.

How to Avoid It:
Preventing clogged drains starts with proper use and regular maintenance. Avoid pouring grease, oil, or food scraps down your kitchen sink, and use drain guards to catch hair and other debris in showers and bathtubs. Perform periodic cleaning using natural methods, such as pouring a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by hot water. Avoid harsh chemical drain cleaners for stubborn clogs, as they can damage your pipes over time. Instead, enlist a professional plumber for thorough cleaning and inspection.

3. Faulty Appliance Connections

Appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators, and water heaters are essential for modern living but can also be major culprits of water damage when they fail. Hoses, valves, and seals in these appliances can deteriorate over time, leading to leaks or bursts. For example, washing machine hoses are prone to cracking and bursting due to high water pressure and wear. Similarly, water heaters can develop leaks as sediment builds up inside the tank, causing it to corrode.

A leaking appliance doesn’t just waste water—it can cause extensive damage to the surrounding area. For instance, a leaking dishwasher can saturate kitchen cabinets and floors, leading to rot and mold. If a refrigerator’s water line fails, it can create a hidden leak that may go unnoticed for weeks, damaging nearby flooring and subflooring. In severe cases, appliance leaks can even compromise the structural integrity of your home.

How to Avoid It:
To prevent appliance-related water damage, schedule regular maintenance and inspections. Replace rubber hoses on washing machines with stainless steel braided hoses, which are more durable and less prone to failure. Check seals and gaskets on dishwashers and refrigerators periodically and replace them if they show signs of wear. For water heaters, flush the tank annually to remove sediment and prevent corrosion. If you plan to leave your home for an extended period, consider turning off the water supply to your appliances.

4. Poor Drainage Around the Home

Improper drainage around your property can lead to water pooling near your foundation, increasing the risk of basement flooding and damage. This often occurs when the yard is not graded correctly; downspouts are too short, or exterior drains are clogged. Over time, standing water near your foundation can seep into cracks, leading to water damage and structural instability.

Water pooling around your home can also encourage the growth of mold, mildew, and algae, which can spread to your basement or crawl space. In extreme cases, poor drainage can result in soil erosion, causing your foundation to settle unevenly and creating cracks in walls and floors.

How to Avoid It:
To improve drainage, ensure that your yard slopes away from your home. Extend downspouts to direct water at least six feet away from your foundation. Clean exterior drains regularly and remove debris that could obstruct water flow. Installing a sump pump in your basement can provide additional protection by removing excess water before it causes damage.

Each of these causes of water damage has the potential to wreak havoc on your home, but with vigilance and preventative measures, you can reduce your risk significantly.

How All Star Plumbing Can Help

At All Star Plumbing, we specialize in identifying and resolving the root causes of water damage. Whether it’s repairing burst pipes, unclogging drains, or inspecting faulty appliances, our team of experts is equipped with the knowledge and tools to protect your home.

If you’re experiencing signs of water damage or want to take proactive steps to prevent it, contact All Star Plumbing today. Your home deserves expert care—and we’re here to deliver it.