5 min read
Summer has passed, and the fall is finally here. Gradually, the temperatures are dropping and the leaves are falling, all because winter is around the corner.
For homeowners, the fall signals the time to start preparing for the harsh conditions that often takes its toll on their properties. Although winters are relatively mild in Austin, they still pose a considerable risk of water damage if your property is not prepared.
Now that fall is here, it’s time to start thinking about water damage prevention. Taking the proper precautions is vital to make sure your property is fall and winter-ready with these water damage prevention tips.
Disconnect Your Hoses
Plants don’t require as much water in the fall as in the summer since temperatures are starting to drop. This means you won’t need your hoses as much to care for your plants.
One of the first precautions you must take while winterizing your home is disconnecting your hoses. Using excessive water around this time may damage your plants’ root system and may even cause water to pool around your garden, which can be dangerous.
But more than that, standing water in the hose can freeze when temperatures drop, which blocks the passage of water when in use. This may seem harmless enough. But in a worst-case scenario, the backflow can cause a buildup of pressure that bursts your pipes and damages your floors, walls, and foundation.
Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters and downspouts are notoriously prone to blockage, especially in the fall when the number of falling leaves and other small debris has increased considerably. These blockages can block the flow of water and cause it to flow to areas where it’s not supposed to.
So during the fall, inspect your gutters and downspouts to check for any blockage that might cause potential damage to your property. Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris to ensure water flows away from your home.
Maintain Trees and Vegetation
Most homeowners dream of maintaining a lush garden. However, you must be careful where you plant shrubs, trees, and other forms of vegetation, as their root systems might damage utility pipes.
As the temperatures grow colder, it helps to prepare your garden for winter by cleaning up your garden, removing weeds, and pruning trees and shrubs. If they become too big, have them removed, especially if they’re located near major sewer lines and water pipes.
Inspect Your Property Thoroughly For Leaks
Staying vigilant is a critical aspect of preventing water damage. Always be on the lookout for leaks around your property by paying attention to the warning signs, such as the visible presence of mold, dripping sounds, and warping on various surfaces.
But aside from spotting the signs of water damage, it’s also vital to be proactive in your approach. Inspect your property for leaks or any damage that could potentially lead to leaking and fix them properly. Addressing these issues early on can help you save on costs for water damage restoration in Austin.
Check Your Water Pressure
Water pressure levels at residential and commercial properties are typically set between 40 to 70 psi. Lower pressure levels may not be enough to meet the standard demands of everyday tasks. Meanwhile, higher pressure levels may damage your pipes and cause them to fail under extreme pressure.
Use a water pressure gauge easily bought at your local hardware store to measure the water pressure levels on your property. Attach the gauge to an outside faucet and turn it to full force to measure its peak pressure levels.
If the pressure reading is too high, you can use a pressure regulator, which is also available at your local hardware store, to limit your home’s pressure levels.
Locate Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve
According to plumbing experts, the main water shut-off valve is arguably your property’s most important plumbing fixture mainly because it’s responsible for controlling the entire water supply.
Water enters through the water main and is then distributed to other pipes. If there are problems with your piping system, you can turn off the entire water supply using the shut-off valve.
Knowing where your main shut-off valve is located is crucial in plumbing emergencies, such as a broken faucet or a burst pipe. This makes it easier to turn off the water and prevent further damage.
Leading Water Damage Restoration in Austin
When it comes to protecting your property, taking a proactive approach and staying active is crucial in water damage prevention, not just in the fall but all year long. When the situation calls for an emergency, you can turn to the professional water damage restoration experts at Restoration 1.
We offer a seamless restoration service and take care of your property swiftly so you can return to your normal activities as soon as possible. Call Restoration 1 of Austin for a free consultation today!
