Birds are chirping, flowers are blooming, and while it’s not officially spring, it’s sure starting to feel like it here in Atlanta. April showers are on the way, but is your home ready to withstand heavy rainfall?
Water damage is one of the more pernicious hazards faced by homeowners because it isn’t necessarily apparent right away—and every day that water damage goes untreated is another day that mold and mildew are able to thrive. Considering that mold can cause serious health issues in addition to property damage, it’s important to do what you can to protect your home from water damage and mold.
Home Maintenance Checklist for Water Damage Prevention
As Ben Franklin famously said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” so take a look at this home maintenance checklist to get you started.
Roof
Don’t worry, you don’t necessarily need to climb up on your roof to check on it; instead, take a look with some binoculars to see if you can spot any missing or out of place shingles.
Gutters
While you’re at it, check your gutters as well. If they’re full of leaves and debris, you’ll need to clear them so they can drain properly. Make sure the gutters aren’t damaged or detached anywhere. Be sure to also inspect the walls and surrounding structure near gutters, as this is often where water damage or rot is most likely to set in. If you see signs of water damage, you may need more extensive gutters or drains to handle the water load during heavy rain.
Windows
Inspecting your windows inside and out is one of the smartest things you can do for your house. If you see gaps, cracks, or other damage, address it right away. Not only can water get in and cause damage, but you’ll also find that repairing any weatherstripping or seals can save you money on your power bill.
Plumbing
Check for leaky faucets, dampness or condensation under sinks, and cracked or leaking hoses around washers, water heaters, etc.
Basement
The basement is a notorious location for water damage (and thus, mold and mildew) thanks to its subterranean nature. If you notice dampness in the basement, you may need to bring in a dehumidifier to bring the humidity level in the room down. Look for cracks in the bottom of concrete walls, an early sign of trouble.
Foundation
Walk around your home and look closely at the foundation. If you see any cracks, don’t try to fill them yourself. Foundation cracks are serious and require a trained professional to fix.
While an annual inspection of your home after the trevails of winter is always a good idea, it’s also smart to check for leaks, standing water, and mold any time there has been heavy rainfall. If you suspect water damage or mold growth in your Atlanta home or historic property, give us a call to learn more about our mold removal and remediation services.