Water Damage: Causes and Types
Water damage is a serious problem that can cause extensive damage to your home and belongings. It is important to be aware of the causes and types of water damage so that you can take steps to prevent it from happening.
Causes of Water Damage
There are many different things that can cause water damage, including:
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- Flooding
- Burst pipes
- Leaking appliances
- Roof leaks
- Condensation
- Humidifiers
- Aquarium leaks
- Water heater leaks
Types of Water Damage
There are two main types of water damage:
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- Clean water damage: This type of water damage is caused by water that is free of contaminants, such as rainwater or water from a burst pipe. Clean water damage is typically less severe than dirty water damage.
- Dirty water damage: This type of water damage is caused by water that contains contaminants, such as sewage or flood water. Dirty water damage can be more severe than clean water damage because it can lead to the growth of mold and bacteria.
What is the root cause of water damage?
The root cause of water damage is often a failure to properly maintain or repair plumbing fixtures, appliances, or other water-related systems. This can lead to leaks, bursts, and other problems that can cause water damage.
Preventing Water Damage
There are a number of things you can do to prevent water damage, including:
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- Regularly inspect your plumbing fixtures and appliances for leaks.
- Repair any leaks promptly.
- Install a water alarm or leak detector.
- Keep your gutters clean and free of debris.
- Elevate appliances off the floor in areas that are prone to flooding.
- Turn off your main water supply when you go on vacation or if you will be away from home for an extended period of time.
If you do experience water damage, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage. Contact a professional water damage restoration company to assess the damage and begin the cleanup process.