As a Portland homeowner, you’re likely accustomed to the rain. After all, the city of Portland averages about 42” of rainfall per year. Though rainstorms are likely to result in water damage, they’re not the only cause.
In fact, there are several types of water damage homeowners in the greater Portland area face. Here’s an overview of the most common types of water damage so you can be prepared.
1. Rainstorms and Bad Weather
Let’s start with rainstorms and bad weather, as it’s one of the most common causes of water damage.
Despite how common it is, it’s important to remember that the rain itself isn’t going to cause water damage. Instead, it’s the condition of your home. When it rains, your gutters are supposed to move water away from your home. Unfortunately, if they’re clogged, this process isn’t possible. As such, rainwater will pour out on the side of your gutter. This means you could have water damage in your basement.
The other culprit is the condition of your roof’s shingles. If your shingles are worn down or damaged, they won’t offer as much protection against rain. This makes it easier for water leaks to occur in your attic or second floor.
Always inspect your roof and clear out your gutters twice a year to prevent damage.
2. Burst Pipes
Another common type of water damage homeowners face results from burst pipes. Your home’s pipes aren’t able to withstand temperatures below 32 degrees. If they’re exposed to temps below this, they’re likely to burst from the increased pressure.
Though burst pipes are common during the winter, they can also occur during the summer months. During the summer months, pipes may burst due to shifting soil. Or they could just be old and worn down.
3. Floods
Unfortunately, Oregon is prone to experiencing flood damage. Floods are sometimes impossible to prepare for. So when they happen, they cause major destruction.
It’s not uncommon for floods to completely damage your basement and first floor. Worse, it will likely damage everything in its path, including furniture. Because of how wet everything gets after a flood, mold growth isn’t just possible – it’s expected.
This type of water damage is often too big for homeowners to treat themselves, so they will need to contact a professional to remove the water. Then they will need to have them treat the mold growth.
4. Overflowing Tubs, Sinks, and Toilets
Another common type of water damage stems from overflowing tubs, toilets, and sinks. In many cases, this type of overflow is caused by a clog somewhere in the pipe. However, it may also be the result of a blocked vent or sewer line problem.
Regardless of the cause, overflowing wastewater like this is a common problem. If you experience a sewer backup like this, it’s going to be too dangerous to clean up yourself. As such, a call to a sewer backup cleanup crew is required.
5. Broken or Malfunctioning Appliances
Sometimes water damage isn’t caused by some sort of natural disaster. In some cases, it’s caused by a broken or malfunctioning appliance.
While this type of water damage may be easier to treat, you’re still at risk of mold growth if left untreated.
Items such as water heaters, dishwashers, and washers may break down due to normal wear and tear. Or, in some cases, they could have legitimate problems. For example, a water heater could have a rusted tank, or a dishwasher could have a damaged drain hose or broken door seal.
When things like this happen, it could result in water damaging your basement, kitchen, and laundry room floor.
With all types of water damage, you have to clean up the water quickly. Mold can grow in as little as 24 hours after water exposure. The sooner you remove the water, the less likely mold is to develop.
Likewise, you’ll want to disinfect the area and open up some windows and doors to get a cross-breeze. If you can, plug in a dehumidifier to grab excess moisture from the air. Though it may take some time for the room to fully dry, it’s one of the most important steps.
If you need help doing this, call a water damage restoration company like PNW Restoration for help.
Schedule a Water Damage Consultation with PNW Restoration Today and Get Your Home Back to Normal!
Did your home experience water damage? If so, don’t wait to get it treated. Water damage can quickly lead to mold growth if left untreated. Protect your home and yourself by calling PNW Restoration.
We have years of experience treating water damage. Whether the damage is large or small, PNW Restoration is who you can call to return your home to normal. We’re here to help residents of Portland, Tigard, and Hillsboro. Contact us today at 971-247-3661.
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