It’s normal to think of water damage as a winter thing. After all, water damage is caused by burst pipes and melting snow. However, you may be surprised to learn that water damage is also common during the summer. Since water damage is common this time of year, you need to know who to call for water restoration services.
Here’s what you need to know about the most common types of water damage in the summer.
Common Types of Water Damage That Require Water Restoration Services
There are many types of water damage that can lead to a water restoration services call. Here are five of the most common:
Rainstorms
Rainstorms are one of the most prevalent types of water damage in the summer. This is especially true in Portland, considering the rainy season usually wraps up mid-May. Because our summers tend to be dry, it’s easy to believe a rainstorm won’t happen after the rainy season ends. This may lead you to keep your windows open.
If you’re not home, and a storm does occur, you could soon be dealing with water damage and even mold. Remember, mold grows in as little as 24 hours after water exposure.
Always err on the side of caution and keep the windows closed any time you leave the house. It could make a difference between water damage and none.
Clogged Gutters
Depending on where you live, your gutters are likely to experience clogs during the autumn season. Leaves are the most common objects that clog your gutters during that season. However, don’t rule out clogged gutters in the summer.
Leaves fall during the summer, as do branches. This is especially true if it was recently windy. In addition to these, gutters can also make nice environments for pests and nests. When your gutters are clogged, it forces water to fall out over the sides. As a result, water could fall directly into the soil near your home’s foundation. It could also get into your basement.
The problem with water damage caused by clogged gutters is that it isn’t always that easy to catch. By the time you notice water damage, it may have already led to mold. You can avoid this by hiring someone to inspect and clear your gutters every six months.
Burst Pipes
Burst pipes are more common in the winter. However, they can still happen during Portland’s dry summers. In fact, these dry summers are actually one of the top reasons for burst pipes.
During the summer, the soil is able to move more easily. It isn’t as tightly packed. This makes it easier for pipes to shift, which can lead to bursting. Also, sometimes pipes are just too old. When it’s their time to go, they burst. This can happen any time of year.
Knowing the signs of a burst pipe is crucial to preventing serious water damage. Here are the most common warning signs that a burst pipe is imminent:
- Uneven water pressure
- Higher water bills
- Discolored or stinky water
- Puddles beneath your toilet and/or sink
This is not a complete list. However, these are a few of the most common warning signs to take note of. If you notice any of these, call a plumber – and FAST!
Broken or Malfunctioning Appliances
Sometimes water damage is the result of a broken or malfunctioning appliance. Maybe your water heater tank burst. Or, maybe the dishwasher failed and now there’s water all over the kitchen floor.
Water damage like this is hard to prevent. When it occurs, make sure you wipe up the water as soon as possible. Do not let it sit. Mold grows in as little as 24 hours after water exposure. And, since your basement, kitchen, and laundry room have a lot of humidity, sitting water can lead to mold fast.
Broken HVAC System
This certainly isn’t the last cause of summer water damage, but it is one of the most common. During the summer, you’re going to run your air conditioner. This could lead to condensation if your home’s HVAC system isn’t working.
Your home’s HVAC system is supposed to circulate air. If it isn’t working, your home will have a lot of humidity. Over time, condensation will discolor your walls and lead to mold. If your rooms feel hotter and the air smells stale, this might be what’s causing it.
Do You Need Help with Water Restoration Services? Call PNW Restoration for an Appointment!
Water damage is always a headache to deal with. Whether the job is big or small, you don’t have to handle it alone. Instead, contact the team at PNW Restoration.
At PNW Restoration, providing water restoration services is our specialty. We’ll treat water damage and provide tips so you can avoid this moving forward. Call us today to set up a water restoration services appointment. Our phone number is 971-247-3597. One call to us is all it takes to restore your home after water damage.
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