Water damage can happen to us all, and seemingly from nowhere. So common is water damage that a previous post was dedicated to tips on what to do when returning home to find flooding. However, there are steps which you can take to minimize the chances of flooding and water damage in your home.

How to Prevent Water Damage in Your Home

To get you started, Archer Cleaning & Restoration Services have some tips below to help you reduce the chances of water damage in and around your home.

Fix Small Problems. Now!

It's easy to ignore a small leak or a dripping faucet; becoming used to the sound as you walk by. Do you know what's not easy? Recovering a flooded kitchen and living room after you have returned home from work to find that small leak wasn't so small anymore. It doesn't matter if it's a leaking faucet, a dripping pipe, or a creaking toilet - fix it now before it causes any serious damage!

Now for the Laundry

After leaking faucets and dripping pipes, laundry pipes are one of the most common causes of water damage inside the home, with washing machine hoses being a large contributor. Modern washing machines may be quite good at holding their position, but older washing machines are known for moving around during their cycles. This can cause the machine to move away from its place, taking the hose with it.

• Consider these ideas:
• Give your hoses a check every couple of weeks to make sure everything is fastened and secure
• Look for space where your washing machine is not able to move as much, if at all.
• Use rubber grips on the feet of your washing machine to help hold it in place.

Once you have secured your laundry hoses and washing machine, print out the following number and keep it with your emergency contacts: 888-436-3499. This is the 24/7 emergency service number for Archer Cleaning & Restoration Services. If you return home to discover water damage or flooding, don't hesitate to contact Archer Cleaning & Restoration Services immediately and enlist their services.

Time for a Tour

Set aside a good part of your day, get yourself a plunger and some cleaning supplies, and take a tour of your home's drain pipes. Thoroughly clean each one and ensure there is nothing which could clog or restrict the flow of water. After all, your drainage pipes are you first and best line of defense when it comes to water leaks and flooding. While you are taking the time to unclog your drainage pipes, consider tackling your regular drains, also.

The Most Common Is the Most Overlooked

Because it isn't often something homeowners look at, the roof is often forgotten when it comes time for any type of maintenance or cleaning. Because of this, a roof can quickly become damaged or worn without being noticed. Take some time to safely reach and inspect your roof. Look for any cracked tiles or missing shingles which could allow water to creep in. Remember that a leak or a hole doesn't have to be big to cause problems - any water entering your home through your roof is a problem. If you notice any concerns, be sure to have a professional tend to them immediately. The last thing that you want is to encounter a particularly heavy storm and find yourself with an attic that has become a swimming pool. If a visual inspection of your roof returns no concerns, head up into your attic and run your hand along the lining of your roof and feel for any damp patches. Similarly, look behind any stored items which are in contact with the lining of your roof for any signs of moisture or mold. If you see any of these signs, there's a good chance that you have a leak.

The Best Restoration Services in Polk County

Nobody likes to think about water damage occurring in or around their home. However, the simple truth is that water damage and flooding can occur in any home and to any homeowner. The key is prevention and preparedness. This and the previous list are great items to print out and keep with you in the event that you need them. Keep 888-436-3499 with your emergency home contacts. If you return home to find flooding or your home has sustained any other type of damage, call it and speak with a professional at Archer Cleaning & Restoration Services who can help you get your home back to normal.