Are you concerned that your home is at risk of water damage? It is a worry for many homeowners and can cause several problems, especially if it goes undetected for a while. These issues include poor indoor air quality, expensive repair bills, and even a reduction in the value of the property. Taking preventative steps will help to avoid these issues so knowing the areas of your home with the most potential for water intrusion is important. Here are some of those areas:
The best place to start is perhaps the roof as this can be the reason for many moisture-related problems. For example, a roof should have the appropriate amount of slope so that it allows for adequate drainage. The flashings should also be checked as they are often prone to leaks. All gutters and downspouts must be cleaned out regularly. These are susceptible to blockages due to falling leaves and branches. If you do not remove the debris, water will not be able to drain away from the building correctly.
Another area prone to moisture intrusion is the home’s plumbing system. If you notice any leaking plumbing fixtures, dripping pipes or faucets, and blocked drains, etc. fix them immediately, even if you don’t think the issue is that serious as it could be causing a lot bigger problem than you realize.
Cracks and holes that have developed in the foundations of the home over time are also a source of moisture intrusion. Again, if this is something you have noticed, fix it as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
High levels of indoor humidity can also do a lot of damage. It can cause stains to form on ceilings and walls, as well as musty odors and bad air quality. Be sure to dry thoroughly any moisture that is gathering on hard surfaces. A dehumidifier should also help with this.
If the thought of checking all these areas is overwhelming to you, why not have your home inspected by a qualified home inspector? They will be able to perform a thorough diagnosis and point out any trouble spots.