Prevent Water Damage with Monthly T.L.C. (Thorough Leak Checks)

The Texas Department of Insurance reports one of every three Texas homeowner claims last year were due to water damage, and the average cost per water claim was $8,600—about twice the national average. Luckily, homeowners can help prevent water damage by practicing preventative maintenance. The Insurance Council of Texas, with help from Allstate Insurance Company, offers the following maintenance tips to prevent water damage:

Washing machine hoses
Water hoses on washing machines carry pressurized water even when the washer isn’t running and can quickly fill a room if it bursts. It’s best to check the hose for leaks or signs of deterioration once a month and replace the hose before it fails. Depending on the material of the hose, hoses typically last between two and five years.

TIPS: When replacing the hose, first shut off the water supply to the washing machine. Make sure the new hose is free of kinks and tight bends when it is installed. Keep at least four inches between the water connection and the back of the washing machine. There are several thickness levels of hoses and different materials from which to choose. Hoses with external steel braided wire may be more costly (approx. $10) than rubber hoses (approx. $5) but have a lower failure rate.

Shower tiles and grout
The bathroom is a breeding ground for water-related damage. It’s not hard to see if water is leaking underneath a bathroom sink, but it is harder to see when water gets into the sheetrock through cracks in the grout or caulk. Over time, water that seeps into the wall can cause deterioration and rot the wooden structure of the home. If the bathroom is located on the second floor, the floor may eventually collapse.

TIPS: Once a month, inspect the shower for any cracks or missing grout in between the tiles. If you see that grout is missing, repair it right away by either re-grouting it yourself or hiring a professional. Also, it is recommended you reseal your tile every six months with masonry sealer, which can be purchased at any paint or home improvement store. The caulk around the tub and sink needs to be checked and replaced periodically, as well.

Water heater
Some water heater tanks can hold up to 80 gallons of water and if ruptured, it can flood an entire house. A water heater needs to be partially drained every six months to keep sediments from building up on the bottom and causing erosion and rust of the tank lining. And by periodically draining the tank, you may prolong the life of the water heater. Also, check for leaks in the drain valve, safety valve and plumbing connections.

TIPS: Be extremely careful, the water in the tank is very hot! To drain the heater, turn off the electricity or the gas supply. Attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and lead it to a nearby floor drain or into a bucket. Let the water drain until it becomes clear (typically a gallon or more), and then close the drain valve and open the cold water supply to refill the tank. When this is done, restore the power or gas to the heater.

Doug Johnson is Publish Relations Manager with the ICT and Justin Schmidt is Field Corporate Relations Manager with Allstate.

Topics Texas