3 Insidious Sources Of Water Damage
Water damage isn't just a concern for homeowners in floodplains. While severe water damage can ruin an entire home, minor problems can also create surprisingly devastating and long-term issues. Recognizing and addressing these sources of damage before they can progress is essential to avoiding ruined flooring and walls or even ongoing mold problems.
This article will outline three insidious and often unnoticed sources of water damage. By paying attention to these potentially troublesome areas, you'll be able to address any damage they may cause before it progresses into an emergency.
1. Window Air Conditioners
Many homeowners choose window units for their low cost and perceived ease of installation. Unfortunately, improperly installing a window air conditioner can result in many subtle and unnoticed issues. Like any other air conditioning unit, these appliances must drain condensed water safely outside to avoid creating damage to your home.
Improperly fitting your unit to the window can cause water to drain back inside. In some cases, this may create obvious drips on your wall. In other cases, the water may seep under window trim, slowly causing unseen water damage. If you use window units in your home, be sure to follow all instructions during install and routinely check for signs of water damage to your window or the surrounding area.
2. Water Heaters
Storage tank water heaters use a relief valve to relieve excess pressure inside the tank. This valve serves a critical safety function, but it's also a way for water to escape the tank. Problems with the heater can cause its internal temperature (and thus pressure) to increase beyond specifications, pushing water through the valve. Faulty valves can also leak even if the heater is otherwise fine.
Since most people keep their water heaters in occupied spaces, these leaks may go unnoticed for some time. Even a slow leak can cause damage to the surrounding area or increase moisture sufficiently to promote mold growth nearby. Always periodically check your heater for signs of leakage, and call in a professional water damage contractor if you believe your tank has been leaking for some time.
3. Baseboard Radiators
Hydronic heating systems have numerous benefits and can often impart a sense of luxury and warmth to a home, but they're also a potential source of water damage. Baseboard radiators need a steady supply of hot water to keep your home warm, and leaks may sometimes go unnoticed since these devices sit close to the floor.
As with many other insidious leaks, these can sometimes be slow and hard to notice. Moist areas of carpeting or wet spots on your wall may already be a sign of significant damage. While you'll need an HVAC professional to repair the problem, you may also need a water damage remediation expert to deal with its consequences.
Contact a company like GraEagle Construction LLC to learn more.
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