Water damage Capital Region NY homeowners and businesses are likely to experience at least once in their lifetime. Whether the damage is related to burst pipes, leaking appliances, or flooding from storms, water damage can quickly lead to mold growth and structural damage, leaving your property in urgent need of water damage restoration services.
In this blog post, we’ll cover the common causes of water damage in the Capital Region, NY, warning signs and top tips for preventing water damage to your property.
Common Causes of Water Damage
Which common causes of water damage can catch you off guard? Here are the most typical threats:
Damaged or Leaking Pipes
Leaking pipes are a leading cause of residential water damage. Pipes’ strength can wear off over time due to rust, pressure changes, or freezing temperatures in the Capital Region.
Signs to look for:
- Unexplained increase in water bills
- Water stains on walls or ceilings
- Dripping sounds or pooling water
Prevention:
- Schedule regular inspections of your plumbing system.
- Make sure to insulate pipes during winter to prevent freezing and burst pipes.
- Replace old or corroded pipes before it’s too late.
Clogged Drains
A clogged drain can lead to overflowing sinks, showers, and even water backups inside your home. This is the case when grease, hair, or soap scum builds up in the drain
Signs to look for:
- Slow-draining water
- Gurgling noises in pipes
- Unpleasant odors from drains
Prevention:
- Avoid pouring grease or food remains down the drain.
- Use drain screens to catch hair and other debris.
- Make drain cleaning your routine.
Sewer Backups
Sewer water usually backs up into your property when the main sewer line is blocked, causing severe contamination in your home. Heavy rains, clogged gutters, and tree roots are main contributors to these blockages.
Signs to look for:
- Slow-flushing toilets
- Strong sewage odors
- Standing water in your basement drains
Prevention:
- Avoid flushing non-degradable items like wipes and paper towels.
- Installing sump pumps can help prevent flooding.
- Maintain your plumbing by scheduling regular inspections.
Clogged Gutters
Gutters direct gallons of water away from your home, but when they’re clogged with leaves and debris, water can seep into the roof and foundation.
Signs to look for:
- Water pooling around the foundation
- Roof leaks or water stains on ceilings
- Overflowing gutters during rainfall
Prevention:
- Clean your gutters at least twice a year.
- Install gutter guards to prevent debris from building up.
- Direct downspouts so water drains safely away from your property.
Faulty Appliances
Even though washing machines, water heaters, or dishwashers make our lives easier on a daily basis, they can also turn into a real headache when they start leaking. These leaks happen over time usually due to aging hoses, loose connections, or damaged water supply lines.
Signs to look for:
- Puddles of water near appliances
- Musty odors around laundry or kitchen areas
- Visible rust or corrosion on hoses
Prevention:
- Replace old hoses regularly.
- Don’t put too much clothes in your washing machine.
- Turn off the water supply when leaving for extended periods.
Roof Leaks
Heavy snowfall and rain in the Capital Region can weaken roofing materials, leading to leaks. Small roof leaks can cause mold growth and structural damage as water accumulates.
Signs to look for:
- Water stains on ceilings
- Missing or damaged shingles
- Mold growth in the attic
Prevention:
- Inspect the roof regularly.
- Repair or replace damaged shingles as soon as possible.
- Ensure proper ventilation in your attic.
Natural Disasters and Flooding
Heavy rain, winds, and snowmelt can cause natural disasters, leading to flooding in basements and crawl spaces, especially if sump pump failures happen.
Signs to look for:
- Standing water in your basement
- Damp or moldy walls
- Water seeping through foundation cracks
Prevention:
- Install a sump pump to remove excess water.
- Get a flood insurance policy if you live in a high-risk area.
- Patch up foundation cracks to prevent water entry.
HVAC Issues and Condensation
Poor ventilation and excess humidity from HVAC systems can lead to moisture buildup and mold.
Signs to look for:
- Water pooling near HVAC units
- Condensation on windows or walls
- High humidity levels in the home
Prevention:
- Maintain your HVAC systems with regular inspections.
- Keep vents unblocked for proper airflow.
- Use a dehumidifier in humid months.
Foundation Cracks and Structural Damage
Water can also find its way into your home through small cracks in the foundation, causing structural weakening over time.
Signs to look for:
- Cracks in basement walls or floors
- Uneven floors
- Water stains on foundation walls
Prevention:
- Seal foundation cracks with waterproofing materials.
- Keep soil around the home properly graded.
- Check for leaks regularly.
Frozen Pipes
Capital Region winters bring freezing temperatures that can cause pipes to burst, leading to flooding in your home.
Signs to look for:
- No water coming from faucets
- Frost on exposed pipes
- Strange noises in the plumbing
Prevention:
- Insulate pipes in cold areas.
- Keep faucets dripping in freezing weather.
- Keep the home heated above 55°F.
What Are the Risks of Ignoring Water Damage?
Ignoring water damage can lead to:
- Mold Growth: Mold can start growing within 24–48 hours of water exposure.
- Structural Damage: Water weakens wood, drywall, and insulation.
- Health Issues: Moist environments promote bacteria, leading to respiratory issues.
- Higher Repair Costs: The longer you wait, the more expensive repairs become.
Protect Your Home with Accurate Water and Fire Restoration’s Experts
If you’ve noticed any signs or common causes of water damage in your home or business in the Capital Region, NY, take the first steps now before it’s too late! Contact Accurate Water and Fire Restoration’s experienced and certified team today at (518) 707-1399 for water damage restoration, or fill out this online form for a free inspection. We’re available 24/7 for water damage emergencies!
