5 Ways to Prevent Home Damage in 2023
If you want to prevent home damage in 2023, then keep reading. There are five ways you can do this. And we’ll outline them all out in this guide.
It’s important to make sure your home is well-protected. Even the slightest bit of home damage can lead to big problems. The sooner you take the preventative measures, the better.
Most of these are easy to do projects you can do on a weekend. So if you’re someone that likes to DIY, then this guide might be right up your alley. With that said, let’s get started.
1. Install gutters
One of the things you’ll want to do will prevent even the most serious water damage. Installing gutters might be the smart thing you can do. Especially when you want to drain water after rainfall.
It’s also a good idea to include other products such as leaf blockers and screens. This will keep out the leaves in a gutter. Install gutter outlets to ensure they are secure properly.
If you are dealing with broken gutters, then fix them as soon as possible. The greater the damage, the less likely it will function. It may even require a professional to inspect the damage and make an informed decision.
You can either repair the damage or outright replace your gutters. It’s important to make sure that you check on your gutters regularly. Especially after rain or snow has fallen.
It’s always a good idea to take measurements of your roofline and purchase any necessary material. Especially when you are installing a whole entire gutter for your home.
2. Have your roof inspected
Whether it’s by yourself or a professional, this is a can’t-miss thing to do. Because your roof may inadvertently have a few entry points for water. When it rains, water can leak inside.
What’s worse is that it can lead to damaging your structure. This includes mold growth that can hurt the entire structure itself. It can lead to a ton of money to repair the structure of your home.
It may take a roof repair service to take care of any damage that needs to be fixed. Likewise, it’s still a good idea to consider installing gutters. Water damage prevention doesn’t end with fixing your roof.
Also, check for any shingles that may also be missing. Replace them with excellent quality shingles. Especially the type that can resist high speed winds.
Finally, make sure your roof is clean on a regular basis. Leaves and debris can get trapped on the roof. Eventually, they can make their way down to the gutter.
Your roof may be one of the most important parts of your house that can’t get damaged. But there’s another vital part that you need to check on as well. Let’s take a look at what that one is.
3. Check your foundation
Your foundation supports the entire home. You’ll want to keep it in the best condition possible. Any cracks, settling, or other signs of damage can lead to issues. These will need to be fixed as soon as possible.
This is also another place where water can leak inside your home. Your basement is one of the places where mold growth is popular. Couple water damage with the moisture your basement has and it will be a disaster like no other.
Minimal damage or cracks to your foundation should be taken seriously. It’s not one of those things where you ignore it and say ‘no big deal’. It’s a sign that things can get worse if nothing is done.
Do yourself a favor and make sure that your foundation is in good shape. This way, your house will be well-supported. And no water will ever gain access into your home (via your basement).
4. Protect your home from pests
Pests can be an external threat to your home. They can even damage parts of it because they can chew their way through things. Pests great and small can do damage not only to the home itself, but also to your property.
However, you can take preventative measures as soon as possible. You’ll want to seal off any cracks or openings where pests can enter your home. But don’t let it stop there.
You also want to properly store your food in the appropriate places. Speaking of food, you need to clean up and dispose of any scraps. Clean dishes regularly as well.
Keep your house as clean as possible on a regular basis. You should also leave any full trash bags out in the garage area (at least until trash day). Finally, it’s important to check your home for any signs of pest invasions.
One of the telltale signs of pests entering your home is the presence of droppings. Depending on where you find them, you may be able to identify what potential pest you might be dealing with.
5. Check your plumbing
Your plumbing should be in good shape. However, you’ll want to check your pipes to see if there are no leaks present. These leaks can lead to – you guessed it – water damage.
To that end, you’ll want to fix any leak issues that may arise. Check to see if your water heater is in good working order. That way, you’ll be able to take that warm shower (instead of a freezing cold one).
If your plumbing is not functioning properly, you may not be able to flush the toilet, shower, or use the sink. So make sure you check on your plumbing regularly just to make sure everything is good to go.
Final Thoughts
Preventing home damage is key any time throughout the year. It’s important that you consider going over these five tips to ensure your home is protected. Whether it’s the outdoor elements or unwanted critters, you’ll want to make sure your home is free from any damage.
The slightest kind of damage can and will lead to bigger problems. Inspect for any existing damage and repair them as soon as you can.