Do you know all the ways water can get into your house? It’s not just flooding; there are small and sneaky entry points that can lead to extensive damage and costly home repairs. To help you stop the top culprits of water damage, we’re breaking down 11 that you need to know.
- Clogged eaves and downspouts. Leaves and debris can block the flow of water, forcing it to spill over and pool near your foundation. Clean gutters and downspouts regularly or hire a professional to clear them.
- A backed-up sump pump. When a sump pump fails or overfills, water can quickly flood your basement. Test your sump pump often and consider a backup generator or secondary pump for added protection.
- Damaged or weathered roofing. Missing shingles, worn flashing, or age-related wear can cause water to seep into your attic or ceiling. Inspect your roof yearly and fix small issues before they turn into costly repairs.
- Worn siding. It’s not just aesthetic; worn siding with cracks, warps, or gaps can let in rain and moisture behind your walls.
- Poor grading. The ground around your foundation should be sloped so water flows away from your home, not toward it. Regrade your soil or install drainage solutions to keep water moving properly.
- Tree roots. Roots from large trees can damage underground pipes, creating new entry points for water. Plant trees a safe distance from your home and have existing tree roots checked.
- Cracks in your foundation. Even hairline cracks can let groundwater in during heavy rainfall. Seal small cracks with epoxy and call a professional for larger or recurring problems.
- Ceiling or floor cracks. Cracks in your ceiling or floor may look harmless, but they can act as pathways for water to come in during storms or plumbing issues. If you see a minor crack, note its size and take a photo. Keep an eye out for any changes, or call a professional to seal it right away.
- Leaky pipes. Often, leaks behind walls or under sinks can go unnoticed until you spot pools of water, discoloration, mold, or higher water bills. Inspect these areas routinely and keep your eye out for the warning signs.
- Window leaks. Poor window seals or aging frames can let water seep inside. Reseal your windows with caulk, replace damaged flashing, and check that your window wells drain properly.
- Water in the crawl space. Standing water or high humidity in the crawl space can lead to mold and structural problems. How can you reduce the risk? Improve ventilation, use a vapor barrier, and consider a sump pump if flooding is common.
While there are plenty of ways water can get into your house, a little prevention goes a long way. Stay proactive, and you’ll save yourself costly repairs down the road. Looking for even more protection and peace of mind? Talk to a local, independent agent about comprehensive home insurance today.
This content was developed for general informational purposes only. While we strive to keep the information relevant and up to date, we make no guarantees or warranties regarding the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information, products, services, or graphics contained within the blog. The blog content is not intended to serve as professional or expert advice for your insurance needs. Contact your local, independent insurance agent for coverage advice and policy services.
