This article will discuss in detail the 20 Tips for Preventing Water Damage. According to the Insurance Information Institute, water damage and freezing account for about 24% of all homeowners insurance claims in the United States. The risk is even higher in Houston, where annual rainfall averages 49.77 inches. This article provides 20 practical tips that could help you prevent water damage and save money on repair or restoration. Find the tip that is suitable for your situation!
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Maintain Your Roof
Inspect your roof at least twice a year, ideally in spring and fall. Look for missing, damaged, or curling shingles, which can allow water to seep into your home.
Pay special attention to areas around chimneys, vents, and skylights, as these are common points of water intrusion.
Finally, consider hiring a professional roofer for a thorough inspection every few years, especially after severe weather events.
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Clean and Maintain Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and seep into your home’s foundation or walls. Clean your gutters at least twice a year, removing leaves, twigs, and other debris.
Ensure downspouts direct water 5 feet away from your home’s foundation and install gutter guards to reduce the frequency of cleanings and improve overall gutter efficiency.
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Inspect and Maintain Your Foundation
Houston’s clay soil can expand and contract with moisture changes, potentially causing foundation issues.
Regularly inspect your foundation for cracks or signs of settling. Keep the soil around your foundation consistently moist (not saturated) to prevent extreme expansion and contraction.
If you have persistent moisture issues, you may install a French drain system to direct water away from your foundation.
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Install and Maintain Sump Pumps
In flood-prone areas of Houston, a sump pump can be a valuable tool in preventing water damage.
Install a sump pump in your basement or crawl space to remove excess water.
Test your sump pump regularly, ideally every few months, and get a battery backup system to ensure it functions during power outages, which are common during severe weather events.
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Properly Grade Your Landscape
Ensure your property is graded to slope away from your home’s foundation. The Building America Solution Center recommends that the ground drop at least 6 inches over a distance of 10 feet from your home.
This helps direct water away from your property, reducing the risk of foundation damage and basement flooding.
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Seal Windows and Doors
Inspect the seals around your windows and doors annually. Replace weatherstripping and caulk as needed to prevent water intrusion.
Pay special attention to ground-level windows and doors, which are more susceptible to water damage during heavy rains or flooding events.
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Install Backflow Valves
Install backflow valves on sewer and septic tank connections to prevent sewage from backing up into your home during floods or sewer system overloads.
Doing this is especially helpful during Houston’s heavy rain events.
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Maintain Your HVAC System
Regular HVAC maintenance can prevent water damage from condensation or leaks. Have your system inspected annually by a professional. Clean or replace air filters regularly, and ensure your condensate drain line is clear to prevent overflows.
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Inspect and Maintain Plumbing
Regularly check your plumbing system for leaks, including under sinks, around toilets, and in your basement or crawl space.
Here, look for signs of water damage, such as stains, mold, or warping.
In addition, water detection devices should be installed near appliances and in areas prone to leaks. Let a plumber inspect your system every few years to catch potential issues early.
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Insulate Pipes
Temperatures often go below 20 degrees in Houston and lead to burst pipes.
During the record-low temperatures of February 2021 in Texas, countless homes suffered pipe bursts, leading to millions of dollars in damage.
To solve this, insulate pipes in unheated areas of your home, such as attics, crawl spaces, and exterior walls.
During rare freezing events, allow faucets to drip and open cabinet doors to circulate warm air around pipes.
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Know Your Water Main Location
Familiarize yourself with the location of your water main and how to shut it off quickly in case of a plumbing emergency. With this knowledge, you can significantly reduce water damage if a pipe burst or a major leak occurs.
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Use Water Detection Devices
Install water detection devices in areas prone to leaks or flooding, such as near water heaters, washing machines, and basements.
The goal is for this device to alert you to water presence early and allow quick action to minimize damage.
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Maintain Appliances
Regularly inspect and maintain appliances that use water, such as washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters.
Check hoses for signs of wear or cracking and replace them every 3-5 years. Stainless steel braided hoses are more durable than rubber hoses.
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Properly Store Valuables
If you live in flood-prone areas of Houston, store valuable items and important documents in waterproof containers or on high shelves. We recommend using water-resistant materials for lower-level flooring and wall treatments.
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Install a Whole-House Water Shut-Off System
Install an automatic whole-house water shut-off system. These systems can detect unusual water flow patterns and automatically shut off the water supply,
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Maintain Trees and Landscaping
Properly maintain trees and shrubs near your home. Overgrown root systems could damage underground pipes and your home’s foundation.
Trim branches that hang over your roof to prevent damage during storms and reduce the likelihood of leaves clogging your gutters.
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Inspect Your Attic
Regularly inspect your attic for signs of roof leaks or inadequate ventilation. Look for water stains, mold, or damp insulation.
A proper attic ventilation prevents condensation, which can lead to water damage and mold growth.
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Maintain Exterior Paint and Sealants
Keep your home’s exterior paint and sealants in good condition. These act as a barrier against water intrusion.
Repaint or reseal as needed, paying particular attention to areas where different materials meet, such as where siding joins the foundation or roof.
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Consider Flood Insurance
According to FEMA, just one inch of floodwater can cause up to $25,000 in damage to your home.
Consider purchasing a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer.
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Prepare for Severe Weather
Houston is prone to severe weather, including hurricanes and tropical storms.
Create an emergency preparedness plan that includes steps to protect your property from water damage. This may include having sandbags on hand, installing storm shutters, and knowing how to safely turn off utilities.
Bottom Line
While these tips can help mitigate water damage risks, your circumstances may vary. You should consult with licensed professionals and insurance providers to develop a comprehensive water damage prevention strategy or disaster planning and recovery tailored to your property and location. Remember, prevention is often less costly than restoration.