Places Water Damage Occurs Include the Roof and Attic
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. If it starts to leak, water can accumulate in your attic. Because people don’t go into their attic very often, this is a place where water damage often goes unnoticed.
The water can destroy belongings stored in the attic and ruin ceilings, insulation, and structural materials. Often the first sign that a homeowner may see is stains or bubbling on the ceiling, at which point the materials in the attic may already be rotted.
Basement
The basement is another common area to experience water damage. Water may enter the basement from flooding, seepage due to improper grading, or leaky pipes. Proper waterproofing of a basement is essential.
Bathroom
It is not surprising that a bathroom is a prime place for water damage. Water is used more frequently in this room than anywhere else in the house. There are water pipes running to the toilet, shower, and sinks, all of which have the potential to leak. Water can get past the shower curtain and soak into the floor around the shower.
When the bathroom is not well ventilated, condensation from hot showers can accumulate on walls and ceilings and damage them. If the wax ring that seals the base of the toilet gets damaged over time, the toilet can start to leak. If this happens, you might see some water around the toilet, but it is more likely that it will just soak into the floor under the toilet.
Doors and Windows
When doors and windows are not well-sealed, water can leak inside. Close up any window cracks and door gaps with caulk and weatherstripping.
Plumbing Related Places Water Damage Occurs
Anywhere there are plumbing pipes has the potential for water damage. This includes under the sink, the washing machine, dishwasher, and any pipes, whether inside the walls or exposed. A pipe that leaks will damage drywall, lumber, and insulation. If it’s inside a wall, the first you may know about the leak is once the damage becomes visible through peeling paint.
RMI Inspection Services provides home inspections to South Florida. Contact us to schedule an appointment.