Common Causes of Water Damage Impacting St. Louis Homeowners

Every day, there are countless houses across the country dealing with water damage. It comes from all kinds of sources, and it can range from minor leaks to major flooding. In the St. Louis area, in particular, there are many things that can lead to residential water damage. In fact, most of the common causes of water damage are within the home itself and have little to do with outside factors like the weather.

It’s important that homeowners be familiar with the typical water damage culprits so that they can catch it early on. It’s recommended that homeowners do regular inspections to check for any signs of leaks or water damage around their houses. They should specifically focus on the following areas.

Appliances

Today’s homes have a plethora of appliances that are designed to make life more convenient. Unfortunately, these modern improvements can actually cause significant water damage if they leak. In fact, homeowners should be especially wary of leaks coming from their: 

• Washing Machines: Hoses and gaskets on washing machines are prone to wear and tear over time. Not only can this lead to a small leak, but it can actually develop into a burst water supply line in worst-case scenarios.

• Dishwashers: The wrong detergent, food buildup, and faulty floats are just a few of the reasons that a dishwasher can flood a house. The discharge or water supply lines can spill gallons of water into the home, so homeowners should regularly inspect connections and clean out the filter. 

• Automatic Ice Makers: It’s nice to be able to go to the refrigerator and get an ice-cold glass of water on demand, but those automatic icemakers are prone to causing leaks. The water supply line may become unattached, so they should be checked and replaced periodically.
• Water Heaters: Most homeowners don’t spend a lot of time in the utility closet, so they may not notice that their water heater is leaking. However, a damp floor or mildew smell could be a strong indicator. It’s best to have a professional inspect this appliance regularly to extend its lifespan and prevent expensive water damage.

Clogged Drains 

Appliances aren’t the only common causes of water damage. Homeowners also need to watch out for clogged drains in the bathtubs, showers, sinks, and toilets. It doesn’t take much for a clog to occur, especially as dirt, hair, grease, and other debris start to buildup. 

A drain clog can be caused by something as simple as poor maintenance. When a drain gets a build up of dirt, hair, grease, or other debris, it can cause water to overflow in a sink or tub. It’s important that homeowners take this source of water damage seriously because it can lead to a flood of grey or blackwater. These two types of water pose health risks as they can contain bacteria, viruses, biohazards, and other harmful contaminants.

Leaks from Structural Damage to the Home

A St. Louis house can also experience water damage if there are any structural issues. Old or damaged roofs, faulty window seals, and poor foundations are just a few of the ways that water can enter a home. 

Oftentimes, these sources of water damage are less noticeable, so the effects may go unnoticed for weeks or months before they are spotted. Homeowners should look for water stains, mold, cracks, or bubbles in the ceilings, flooring, and walls. A mildew odor is also a good indicator that there is a water damage problem.

Flash Floods

Finally, there’s always the risk of flash floods or natural disasters causing water damage in a St. Louis home. While there’s little a homeowner can do to prevent this type of damage, it should come as no surprise that is one of the most common causes. It’s important that homeowners check to see if their home is in a flood zone. If it is, it’s strongly recommended that these homeowners invest in flood insurance for extra protection in the event of water damage.

Find out More About the Most Common Causes of Water Damage in St. Louis Homes

There’s no shortage of ways a home can experience water damage, so homeowners should always be mindful and watch for signs of leaks. If St. Louis locals suspect that their home might have hidden water damage caused by any of the most common causes of water damage, they should contact Pride Cleaning and Restoration. 

Their helpful professionals are available 24/7 to help with water damage problems of all types and sizes, so homeowners should call them right away. They can also reach the restoration experts by submitting their online quote form.