| Expensive repairs from water damage might be | | | | avoid having them burst, with the potential for water |
| needed in your home. Repair them before they | | | | damage. |
| multiply! Water damage is possible any time in the | | | | 3. Avoid expensive repairs to your basement's sump |
| year-from the weather, malfunctioned appliances, | | | | pump by keeping it in working order. |
| clogs, or by poorly done home repair. You can save | | | | 4. Replace or home repair the sump pump as needed, |
| on most home repair costs by ensuring that your | | | | ensuring the surrounding area remains dry and |
| home is safeguarded from water damage seasonally | | | | water-damage-free. |
| before anything turns into expensive repairs. | | | | 5. Check refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing |
| What does water damage look like? Standing water | | | | machines regularly for water damage itself, or for |
| can weaken a surface, causing it to rot, rust, or | | | | leaks that can cause water damage to floors or walls. |
| mildew, and eventually turn into expensive repairs. | | | | 6. Avoid needless expensive repairs or home repair |
| The most expensive repairs are foundational damage | | | | to bathroom drains and pipes by using drain guards to |
| and mold growths. Such home repair can force you | | | | trap hair. |
| to vacate if the home is deemed unsafe even after | | | | 7. Home repair clogged drains with a plunger or a |
| treated for water damage by professionals. Take | | | | bent wire instead of professional products. |
| control by learning how to home repair or prevent | | | | 8. Replace leaky faucets, run bathroom exhaust fans |
| potential water damage sites. | | | | during use, and thoroughly clean and dry surfaces |
| Outdoor water damage prevention home repair tips: | | | | regularly to prevent water damage and mold from |
| 1. Do-it-yourself home repair for gutters are simple | | | | building. |
| and not expensive. Repairs can be minimized if you | | | | 9. Don't use carpeting in areas exposed to |
| remember to check for water damage or leaks and | | | | water-damage can occur if carpeting is damp. |
| clean out the gutters and downspouts each season. | | | | When to call on professional help: |
| 2. Block debris with gutter guards, and use | | | | 1. To thoroughly dry carpeting/floor after flooding. |
| downspout extensions to help divert the runoff from | | | | 2. When home repair fails to correct a problem. |
| the foundation to prevent further expensive repairs | | | | 3. If water damage causes you to vacate the home. |
| from water damage. | | | | 4. To service your air conditioning unit. |
| Indoor water damage prevention home repair tips: | | | | Before you can file a claim for expensive repairs |
| 1. Home repair any loose window and door caulking | | | | caused by water damage to your home, your |
| to prevent rain or snow from seeping in and causing | | | | insurance company expects you to have followed |
| water damage. | | | | through with all safeguarding measures. Otherwise, be |
| 2. In below-freezing weather, keep the water running | | | | prepared to pay for any home repair due to your |
| at a trickle and allow heat to reach the pipes. This will | | | | negligence. |