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Anta
It's not difficult to keep your home free from water damage if you know what causes it. The City of Toronto licenced plumbers from Anta Plumbing have taken their time to provide this list of things you can do to prevent water damage in your home.
1. Clean your gutters
Do it now, before the winter rain and snow set in. Leaves and debris in your gutters can cause clogs that lead to water damage.
2. Assess your downspouts
All downspouts should be cleaned of debris and directed away from the house. If they are against the foundations, call Anta Plumbing to move them 5-10ft away from the house.
3. Assess your landscaping
Your landscaping should allow water to flow away from your home, rather than into it. If it flows the wrong way, you need to slope your yard to direct heavy rain away from the house.
4. Inspect your sump pump
As part of your annual winterization, check your sump pump. If your house is prone to flooding, invest in a backup sump pump, or, if you don't have one, consider buying one.
5. Check your pipes
Leaky pipes can cause massive flooding and water damage, so be sure to check your pipes on a regular basis.
6. Check before you plant
Planting certain trees or shrubs with invasive roots near your drains and water pipes can compromise your pipes, foundation, septic tank, water lines and drainage system.
7. Check upstairs
Roof pipes can leak, causing your ceiling to collapse, or mould and mildew to form. These substances are not only unsightly and foul-smelling, but it is also toxic to humans. Check your ceiling and walls for wet spots. Start from inside the ceiling or attic, as it could take a long time for the spots to form.
8. Replace the caulking
Cracked caulking can cause water to seep into small cracks and crevices, causing mould growth underneath. Check your windows, sinks, showers and bathtub, and replace any cracked or old caulking.
9. Keep an eye on the bills
Does your water bill seem unusually high for no apparent reason? A leak could be causing the spike. Check your pipes, or call Anta Plumbing to do an inspection. With our modern plumbing technology, we're able to locate leaks under your floors and behind your walls.
10. Do a roof inspection
Damaged or missing shingles may cause water to leak into your home. For that reason, it is important to inspect your roof before the rainy season arrives.
11. Avoid chemical drain cleaners
When your drains are clogged, avoid the temptation to use a chemical drain cleaner. Most commercial products harm the pipes, causing corrosion from the inside. Rather use a drain snake.
12. Check your appliance plumbing
The washing machine and dishwasher supply hoses should be replaced every five years. In between, you should inspect the lines on a regular basis. Look for wear and tear, cracks and other signs of damage that could cause leaks.
13. Look for toilet leaks
Look at the bathroom floor for wet, cold and soft spots that may indicate leaks. Those types of leaks need to be fixed by a professional Toronto plumber.
When it comes to water damage, there's a lot you can do to prevent it, but to be sure, you should hire a professional plumber. Here at Anta Plumbing, our Toronto plumbers are experts at detecting leaks and other causes of plumbing water damage.
