When Minneapolis homeowners think about water damage, there are common issues that come to mind right away. Wet storms, plumbing problems under a sink or maybe with a toilet, leaky air conditioners, and damp basements are issues that many of us are familiar with.
As local water damage restoration professionals with over 25 years of experience, we have seen all of the above problems, as well as a few that are less common.
We all know that too much rain or a drastic snow melt can cause water to go places it should not, but what about extreme Minnesota cold and wind? Both very cold temperatures and wind that leads to power failures can cause pipes to freeze. Freezing water expands, causing pipes to burst. When the water thaws, it can flow out of the damaged pipe, whether in a huge flood or a tiny leak.
Sometimes a damaged, leaking pipe is obvious, and sometimes it is hidden. The latter can be very dangerous as it can cause water damage to spread and get worse over time. In order to spot hidden leaks, look for any changes in your home’s appearance or smell, such as discolored or peeling paint, bulging drywall, or musty odors. If you notice any of these signs, contact a water damage restoration professional right away.
Fire and smoke can damage your home, and the water used to put out a fire can cause a lot more. Firefighters can use thousands of gallons of water in a very short period of time, leaving your home soaked through, even if the fire was quickly stopped. The combination of soot and water is particularly bad, as it can penetrate almost all surfaces and objects in your home.
Gutters and downspouts play a critical role in keeping unwanted water away from your home. If your gutters are clogged, water can pool up on your roof and end up seeping down and inside of your home. Damaged gutters can lead to water collecting around the base of your home and penetrating your foundation and basement.
Any appliance that is connected to your plumbing can be a potential cause of water damage. Refrigerators (with water lines for ice makers or water dispensers), water heaters, washing machines, and dishwashers can all cause problems. Make sure to follow all maintenance instructions, and check the water supply lines, hoses, valves, and connections on all of these appliances periodically for any signs of moisture or damage.
Are your doors and windows drafty and often collecting condensation? Aside from being uncomfortable, doors and windows that don’t seal well can allow water to leak into your home. They can also allow temperatures inside of your home or garage to get too low, risking water damage from burst pipes.
Thankfully, many causes of water damage can be prevented through basic home maintenance and planning ahead. However, sudden water damage can still occur due to unexpected events like extreme weather and mechanical failures. The best way to completely protect your home and your loved ones is to have a good relationship with a professional water damage restoration contractor, and your homeowners insurance agent.
Making sure that you know where to get expert help, and that you have the right coverage will ensure that you can easily get your life back to normal, no matter what. At Green Clean, our knowledgeable teams are always expecting the unexpected. We can respond 24 hours a day, seven days a week in order to stop water damage before it spreads. From frozen pipes to leaky appliances, we are ready to help – contact us today to learn more.
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