Tell Tale Signs Of Water Damage, Their Causes, And What To Do
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Most of us experience water damage in our household every now and then. While there are many possible causes to water damage, there are also ways to remedy it.
Water damage to the foundation wall can occur if they are left wet. Wet foundation walls are usually an indication that there is high humidity in the basement, or there is no vapor barrier. To remedy this, you can either install a dehumidifier to improve the humidity in the basement, as well as put damp proofing material to the inside of the foundation.
If leakage is noticed under the window, it may be possible that the unit has not been pitched properly or not draining properly. Pitch the unit properly to drain the water outside. Check for blockage or leaking on the drain for the air-conditioning.
When the outside temperature goes below dew point, this may cause water damage such as leakage, wasted energy, and rotting to windows with no storm windows. When mist is noticed on the inside surface of outside windows, storm windows should be installed.
If you notice mist or frost on the inside surface of windows where a storm window has been installed, this is means that the temperature between the inside & storm windows has gone below dew point and this could cause water damage such as leakage and rot. Storm windows should be checked for openings, loose screws, or missing stripping. Reset the storm windows if necessary and make sure they are tightly closed on both top and end track and caulked well.
Water damage like leaking and plaster erosion under the windows usually means that there is not enough caulking or the 'weep holes' may have been blocked or absent. Caulk must be reapplied around the window frames and put at least 2 'weep holes' along the bottom of the storm windows to allow drainage.
The rotting of wood floors is usually caused by plumbing or rain leak or the absence of a vapor barrier. This type of water damage can be remedied by finding the source of the leak and repairing it, and adding a vapor barrier if there isn't one installed yet. Disinfect wood with disinfectant such as creosote or cuprinol. Wood fillers can be used to repair rotted areas.
A leak from the gutter or the roof may cause the eaves and wood trims at the roof to rot. They should be cleaned, repaired, or installed with new gutters and leaders. Roof must be checked and repaired if needed to prevent further water damage.
If any pipes in the house are 's weating' it means they are not insulated enough. Get a pipe insulating kit that conforms to the measurement of your pipes and wrap it around the pipes per manufacturer 's instructions.
The presence of fungus or molds is usually indicative of high moisture content in the air and, no insulation or ventilation. You may use dehumidifiers or humidity control devices to control humidity. Air valves of steam radiators should be changed when necessary. Dryers must be allowed to vent outside. The house should be insulated and ventilators should be installed in areas like the kitchen. Walls and ceilings should be cleaned and disinfected before applying new paint or wall paper. Fungus or mold can cause further water damage if not addressed immediately.
The chances of water damage can be reduced if signs are noticed early on, and steps are done to fix them right away and prevent them from happening again.
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Author: wwatsy | Total views: 153
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Wendi Watson is a homeowner advocate on water damage for Water Damage and Water Damage
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