What exactly is water intrusion? What can I do to prevent it? In the construction industry, the terms "water intrusion" and "water penetration" are frequently used. For some, these terms have a specific meaning, while for others, it is unclear what is being discussed.
This article aims to address all of those issues by examining what water intrusion in buildings is, its typical causes, and the best ways to prevent and manage it. Continue reading to learn more about water intrusion and how to manage it!
What Exactly Is Water Intrusion?
Water intrusion occurs when water leaks into the home and is usually caused by rainwater. Water intrusion in your home is typically brought on by structural issues, shoddy construction, aging parts, or subpar building supplies.
Water intrusion can result in carpet stains, mildew growth, warping of window sills, and warping of wood furniture or fixtures. In more serious situations, water infiltration can damage the walls and flooring.
Early Detection Is Vital
Many of the more serious effects of water penetration can be averted if the problem is detected early enough. Look over your home for signs of water intrusion after heavy rainfall or flooding.
● Check for discoloration or leaking
● Look at windowsills and doors: is there any swelling or moisture?
● Listen for dripping water
● Your nose knows! Follow any moldy or musty scents to their source.
By performing these checks, you can learn of the water intrusion as soon as possible so that clean-up and repair can begin right away.
How Do I Prevent Water Intrusion in the First Place?
Great water leak prevention starts with the initial building of your home, but if you don’t have time to tear your house down and rebuild it, don’t worry! There are other preventative steps you can take.
1. Ensure Your Gutters Are in Good Shape
The purpose of gutters is to direct rainwater from your roof to a safe discharge area. If your gutters are cracked or not connected properly, water will simply flow right down the sides of your home and saturate the ground below. This abundance of water right at the foundation of your home can result in permeation and flooding as time goes on, not to mention the damage that can be done if your siding isn’t secure.
By making sure your gutters and downspouts are in good shape, you can ensure that rainwater flows to a safe place away from your home before hitting the ground.
2. Fill In the Negative Slope
When the ground around your home slopes down to your walls and foundation rather than up to them, this is referred to as a “negative slope." Since water is not immune to the effects of gravity, it follows the path of least resistance to find the lowest ground possible—and if your home is on a negative slope, that lowest ground will be right where your walls meet the ground.
When you notice a negative slope around your home, don’t wait: get it filled in and built up as soon as possible so that rainwater will flow away from your house rather than toward it.
Water intrusion is a pesky problem to deal with, but luckily you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you’re looking to fix the damage that’s already been done or to implement preventative measures, Hollywood Home Improvements can help. Get in touch with our team of experts today to find out more about our services!
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