Five Categories of Water Damage and How to Prevent Them

The silver lining is that with spring now here, we can finally anticipate some pleasant temperatures. The downside, however, is that this season also brings the risk of flooding and water damage due to melting snow and heavy rain. We've compiled a list outlining various types of water damage and tips on how you can mitigate them. Sewage backflow. To stave off water damage from sewage backflow, make sure the main wastewater line is equipped with a backflow valve (which is required in many municipalities). While this valve will significantly lower the risk of damage, it necessitates regular inspection and verification, ideally performed by a qualified plumber. Ground water ingress. A sump pit drainage system consists of a sump pit, a sump pump, and a discharge pipe. The sump pit, placed within the basement floor, gathers water from the weeping tiles surrounding the basement, while the pump dispels the water to a secure location.

Once again, routine maintenance and testing will ensure that the sump pump stays in optimal working condition. If you reside in an area prone to power outages or with a history of high water levels, consider installing an emergency generator to keep the pump ready for action at all times, or an emergency (battery-operated) automatic backup pump system (available at hardware/renovation stores). Roofs. Flat roofs utilize roof drains to channel water away. These drains should be inspected annually and cleared of any debris or sludge. The roof deck and membrane should also be checked for any irregularities or leaks. For sloped or hip roofs, arrange for regular inspections of the shingles. A snow removal/de-icing program will lessen the potential for infiltration as well as prevent roof snow load collapse (this should be executed by professionals).

Water heaters. Water heaters have a limited lifespan. Corrosion will inevitably deteriorate the tank, resulting in leaks. This risk can be minimized by installing the water heater in a tray or drip pan, which can drain to a safe location. Avoid unwelcome surprises by scheduling a replacement date before the first signs of malfunction emerge. Water heaters ought to be thoroughly examined after 10 years of usage. In fact, it is advisable to replace tanks after this time frame (or even sooner depending on the mineral content of the water). Sink overflow. Overflowing sinks can lead to significant water damage, often stemming from obstructed or slow drains or from leaving faucets running for an excessive period. Conducting a simple inspection of the premises at closing time will eliminate this hazard. If water damage is a major concern for you, consider investing in an automatic system that detects water leaks or flooding. This detector will either shut off the main water valve or connect to your existing alarm system (localized or monitored remotely). A straightforward system, primarily aimed at residential use, consists of a wireless water and flood detector with a local alarm or linked to a telephone receiver/dialer system (available at hardware/renovation outlets).