Flooding has been a prevalent issue, and most Australians often experience water damage in their life. While water leaks are a common issue for Byron Bay residents, they shouldn’t be ignored to prevent water damage in the home. Some water damage cases like floods and storms are unavoidable, but threats arising from common issues are preventable.
1. Leaks in the Roof and Walls
Water leaks in walls can cause severe damage, especially if it seeps into the electrical system. Leaks in wall cavities can indicate rain getting in through a compromised area in the home’s exterior. The piping supplying hot water in your home runs through the wall, and the pipes can deteriorate to form miniature cracks that get bigger with time. If your home has Flexi-hoses, they can burst due to high water pressure or aging.
You should address the issue as soon as possible by identifying wet patches on the wall and roof, then use a water hose to test the areas to locate the leak. Once you find the leaks on the roof, you can use a sealant to cover tiny holes, but severe damage may require roof replacement.
2. Damp Floors
Damp floors often cause decay, mold growth, and unpleasant bugs and odors. The condition is caused by inadequate ventilation in the subfloor or water pools under your house. Constant ground movements due to prolonged dry weather followed by heavy rains can lead to cracked underground pipes.
You should start by clearing any debris and leaves in the subfloor and check the vents for blockage. Ensure the gutters are also not creating water pools under the floor. A moisture meter can help determine moisture levels, and an expert plumber in Gold Coast can advise on the next steps if the levels are too high.
Using low-voltage damp rods and dehumidifiers can solve mild conditions. However, severe dampness may require additional sub-floor ventilation using fans since the forced airflow can improve the situation. Remember that this may not be a permanent solution but can prevent structural timber from deteriorating.
3. Blocked Drains and Gutters
The drains in your bathroom and kitchen can clog due to various factors, including dirt, grease, and other foreign materials that can obstruct optimum drainage. Clogged drains eventually worsen and cause water damage in your home. Similarly, gutter leaks can cause water pools at the base of your house, facilitating moss growth and stains on exterior walls. The culprit may be debris accumulation in the gutters or wrong installation.
Try cleaning the pipes channeling water from the gutters to the ground and test the flow. However, the problem may persist if you don’t get the “fall” right. If huge trees surround your home, you might want to prune the branches as the falling foliage keeps clogging the gutters and exterior drains. Alternatively, you can redesign the roof, but the costs can be prohibitive. In addition, new gutter installations should have safety precautions, including leaf guards, to prevent clogging.
Endnote
Regular checks on your plumbing system are necessary to ensure your home is safe from water damage. While some flaws may seem insignificant, they can lead to severe plumbing emergencies and water damage. If you notice the slightest signs of water damage, it’s best to reach out to a specialist for a lasting solution.
