Water damage is one of the most common problems for homeowners throughout America. The causes of water damage within homes are diverse. However, there are a few causes of water damage that make up the majority of incidents. Being aware of these common causes and how to prevent them will put you well on your way to keeping your home water damage free. Here are five of the most common sources of water damage according to our professional restoration technicians at Regency Disaster Response Team in West Palm Beach.

Burst Or Leaking Pipes

Burst and leaking pipes are most common during the winter months due to the contraction and expansion that occur when the pipes freeze and unfreeze. However, there are still many different ways that your pipes can burst or leak in warm temperatures. These include undue pressure in your pipes when they become clogged and that old and rusty pipes are also more prone to leaking or bursting.

Malfunctioning Appliances

As household appliances get older, their pipes begin to rust and crack and their hoses can weaken. Washing machines, refrigerators, water heaters and dishwashers are all susceptible to deterioration. Thus, you should pay extra attention to older appliances to make sure everything is in good working order. Washing machines and water tanks are the home appliances most likely to cause water damage so they should be given the most scrutiny.

HVAC Issues

HVAC units are another common source of water damage. Air conditioners, in particular, have the most potential to cause water damage. When air conditioners are not maintained properly it causes moisture buildup inside them. Over time, this moisture can develop into mold. Mold in HVAC units is especially concerning because they can spread mold spores throughout the entire home.

Weather Related Issues

You may have no control over storms and natural disasters, but you do have control over how you prepare for them. Flash floods, sudden storms, and hurricanes are the most common types of natural disasters that lead to water damage. To know when to be prepared for a flood you should pay attention to local storm warnings. If you do receive a warning for your area, take the time to be as prepared as possible. It is better to be overprepared for a flood than underprepared.

Roof Leaks

Make sure you’re checking your roof regularly. If it has puddles of water on it, then your drainage probably isn’t working properly. Even a small amount of water can lead to a flood. In fact, every inch of water weighs in at around five pounds. Over time, this can cause incredible strain and lead to leaks.

All in all, there are simply too many possible sources of water damage to go over in a single post. The five causes mentioned here, however, are the most common. Being fortified against these causes of water damage will protect you from the vast majority of potential water that may occur. Nonetheless, if you do suffer from any water damage in your home, don’t hesitate to give us a call at Regency DRT.