What Causes Water Damage and How You Can Prevent It

Water damage is a serious threat that can cause significant harm to homes and properties. Many of us insure our houses against the risks of fire and theft. However, the risks of internal water damage are often overlooked. Water damage can result in mould infestations, unpleasant odours, and structural damage in your house.

That is why it’s important not to turn a blind eye to leaks or blockages that can potentially harm your health and your house. Below, we discuss the most common sources of water damage in Australia and how you can prevent them:

As of 2021, burst pipes accounted for 46% of all home insurance claims in Australia. Pipe bursts can happen due to corrosion or damage caused by external factors. A leaky pipe can go undetected till it’s too late, resulting in gradual water damage.

Burst flexi hoses are used in plumbing systems to connect taps and appliances and are made of flexible rubber or plastic material. They can also fail or burst due to age, wear and tear, or poor installation, causing water damage. The only way to prevent pipe leaks or bursts is to keep an eye on them for signs of damage and schedule annual maintenance.

Blocked drains cause water to back up and overflow due to debris buildup, excess grease, heavy rainfall, and tree roots getting stuck in pipes. Proper waste disposal and cleaning your gutters regularly will also facilitate smoother functioning and result in fewer blockages.

Worn-out hoses or faulty seals in household appliances, such as washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators, can result in leaks into the floors and walls of your home. Washing machines, in particular, function through a dedicated water supply line, which is under constant pressure. This takes a toll over time, causing them to start leaking water. Routine checks and maintenance of the appliances are crucial to prevent the problem from escalating.

Any disturbances on the roof due to damaged or missing tiles, cracks and creaks, or improper installation can trigger a leak into the ceilings and walls. To mitigate the issue, avoid putting a lot of weight onto the roof. Leave the vents open to increase ventilation, and trim your trees timely so they won’t hit the roof. Lastly, maintain the gutters regularly to avoid blockages from stray twigs, leaves, and waste.

Natural disasters such as heavy rain and storms can cause significant damage to homes. While there is no guarantee against natural catastrophes, you can protect your home and loved ones through proper planning. If you live in an area that experiences floods regularly, having an emergency evacuation plan, comprehensive flood insurance, and a waterproofing system can protect your home and loved ones. Furthermore, you can also install a flood control system and apply sealants to any cracks.

While the aftermath of a flood can be devastating, the good news is that there’s a range of professional cleaning services in Melbourne that deal with these effects, be it a flood-damaged carpet that requires emergency carpet drying, tile cleanup, wet carpet cleaning, or upholstery restoration.

Water damage is a common and costly problem faced by homeowners, especially those living in flood-prone areas or older houses with outdated plumbing fixtures. Internal water damage can lead to extensive damage to your property and personal belongings, resulting in costly repairs, replacements, and the potential for health hazards.

It’s essential to inspect all plumbing fixtures and appliances regularly for leaks or other issues that may cause water damage. Prompt action is crucial to prevent further damage and reduce the risk of mould infestations and health hazards, saving you time, money, and effort. If you require professional water damage restoration services in Melbourne, simply call our experts at Electrovac, and we will take care of all cleaning, drying and restoration needs. Our team of experienced professionals can provide quality services to get your home or business back to normal after water damage.

We offer various services, including wet carpet drying, tile and grout cleaning, and water damage carpet cleaning. Moreover, our team is available 24/7, offering on-site flooded carpet drying to address any water damage emergency promptly. To learn more about our services or discuss your needs, contact us at (03) 9568 3205 / (03) 9483 4182 / – or by emailing electrovac1@optusnet.com.au.