Water Intrusion: What It Is and How to Prevent It

Water intrusion is the unwanted entry of water into a building or home.  It can be caused by heavy rains, melting snow, faulty plumbing, or leaks in the roof or foundation. This can happen through cracks in the foundation, windows, doors, or any other openings. Water intrusion can cause extensive damage to a property, including mold growth, rot, and structural damage.   

What Does It Look Like

The materials to build the home can often be different and those different material types can respond to water differently. Here are some common signs of water intrusion at home:  

• Musty or stale smells.
• Obvious signs of mold growing on your walls.
• Paint that is touched by water can bubble up.
• Wallpaper and linoleum can lose their finishes.
• Wood flooring types will begin to buckle and warp.
• Tile flooring could end up popping and cracking loose.

  The moment that you notice some of these signs, it is important to call a professional water intrusion company to inspect your home. This is important to check the damages and to prevent further costly damage in your home.   

What Are the Consequences of Water Intrusion? 

Water intrusion can cause a number of problems, including: 

1. Mold growth: When water enters your home, it creates the perfect environment for mold to grow. Mold can cause serious health problems, including respiratory issues and skin irritation. 
2. Rot: Wood is especially susceptible to rot when it gets wet. Once rot sets in, it will continue to spread until the affected wood is completely rotted away. 
3. Structural damage: If left unchecked, water intrusion can weaken the structure of your home or building. This can lead to collapse or serious injury if someone is inside the property when the damage occurs. 
4. Property value: Water damage can devalue your property significantly. If you plan on selling your home or business in the future, water damage will be a major deterrent for potential buyers. 

 

How to Prevent Water Intrusion

It is important to take steps to prevent water intrusion before it happens. Some things you can do to prevent water intrusion are: 

1. Inspect your property regularly for signs of water damage, such as leaks, cracks, or pooling water. 
2. Make sure your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris so that they can properly drain water away from your property. 
3. Repair any leaks or cracks as soon as possible. 
4. If your property is prone to flooding, consider investing in flood insurance. 
5. Have a professional inspect your roof at least once a year to ensure that it is in good condition and not leaking. 
6. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and take action to protect your property in advance of severe weather conditions, such as hurricanes or tropical storms. 
7. Store valuable items and important documents in waterproof containers in case of flooding. 
8. Take steps to waterproof your basement or crawlspace, such as installing a sump pump or waterproofing membranes. 
9. Be prepared to quickly clean up any water that does enter your home with fans, dehumidifiers, and wet vacuums.  
10. Contact a professional restoration company immediately if you experience significant water damage. 

 

Conclusion: 

Water intrusion is a serious problem that can have costly consequences. Taking steps to prevent water intrusion is the best way to protect your property from extensive damage.