OTTAWA'S HOME RENOVATION BLOG

If you’ve recently had a beautiful renovation in your home, the last thing you want is to see the work ruined by water damage. Water damage can come from many sources – like a foundation crack, a shower leak, or poor ventilation. Here are some helpful tips to protect your home from water damage

Ceilings, Walls & Floors

1. Keep an eye out for stains or bubbling paint on the ceilings. This may indicate that there is a leak in the roof or in a pipe.
2. If you do see stains or bubbling, the source may still be located elsewhere. Track the problem back to the original source and get it solved.
3. If there is bubbling paint or stains on the walls, it may indicate that a pipe, toilet, or shower is leaking. It may even be a sign of a leak from the foundation.
4. Place your hand on the wall. Does it feel damp, or does the paint feel flaky? There may be a presence of water behind the walls.
5. Look for water stains and bubbling tiles on the floors. This is especially important near sources of water, like sinks and dishwashers.
6. Floor drains should always be left uncovered so they can do their job when the time comes.
   
   

Plumbing, Pipes & Appliances

7. Keep an ear out for strange sounds. Trace them back to the source and you may find a leaky pipe.
8. If you have a leaky toilet or faucet, repair it right away before it spirals into a bigger problem.
9. Regularly inspect around sinks, the washing machine, and the hot water tank. If you spot anything off, get it fixed right away.
10. If you have a leaky toilet drain, replace the wax toilet ring for a leak-proof seal. If not, it could turn into a bigger problem in the future.
11. Consider investing in a water damage alarm. It will let you know when trouble has started.
    
    

Sump Pumps & Sewers

12. A sump pump is a strong preventative measure because draws off unwanted water from the home. Have it installed by a professional, and make sure a plumber inspects it at least once per year so it works when you need it.
13. Contact a professional to install a sewer backflow preventer valve. If the main sewer does get backed up, the water won’t end up in your home.
    
    

Controlling Moisture

14. If you have a damp basement, run a dehumidifier regularly to pull moisture from the air.
15. It is very important to have proper ventilation throughout the house. The three most important places to ventilate properly are the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room.

If you take these preventative steps, you can enjoy your home, renovation and all, for many happy years to come. For more tips about water damage or if you have any questions about home renovations, contact RenosGroups.ca today.  To get in touch to schedule renovations, you can fill out an online form or give us a call at (613) 727-9427