The Various Types of Water Damage Common After Heavy Rain | SERVPRO® of Reno Southwest

5/11/2020 (Permalink)

There are many things that can lead to a house sustaining water damage, and many of them happen slowly over a period of time instead of being sudden. We see many reports after general heavy rain comes through the area, as it has a way of finding areas where a home may be vulnerable.

Being aware of this as a possibility and understanding where it is likely to happen is the best way to reduce the likelihood of severe water damage happening to you.

How Water Damage Might Be a Possibility After Heavy Rain

Backup of clogged gutters. Clearing out your gutters regularly is more than just a home maintenance chore—it is an extremely effective way to reduce your chances of water damage. By clearing debris out, you are ensuring that water does not pool up in your gutters and begin to cause damage to your home.

Leaks around windows and doors. Windows and doors generally have protective seals around them, but as these seals become weather-worn, they can begin to allow more of the elements into the home. In the aftermath of heavy rain, this can result in soggy, warped wood that has become soaked over time.

Poor drainage around the foundation. Even foundations made out of cinder blocks or bricks can be vulnerable to water damage if the landscaping of your lawn allows water to pool up around the edges and seep into the building materials.

Leaks in and around the roof. Any roof can develop leaks, even those that have recently been constructed. While it can sometimes be difficult to catch a leak before it bleeds through to the ceiling, looking for signs of wear and tear can often indicate that something is amiss.

Malfunctioning of a sump pump system. To lower their risk of water damage (and save on their insurance), many homeowners choose to install a sump pump—but maintaining it is just as important as doing the initial install in order to reduce the chances of it breaking.

Leaks around chimneys and skylights. Any time something intersects with your roof, there is an increased chance of water damage issues developing. Seals around chimneys and skylights can begin to wear down over time and begin to allow water to work its way in.

If you’ve experienced water damage to your home, we are here to help. You can call us ²⁴⁄₇ to have our trained technicians respond quickly and begin your restoration.