A leak anywhere in your home might be barely perceptible until it causes copious amounts of water damage. It’s important to address the issue as soon as you find it to avoid mold, structural issues, and safety concerns. To locate the source of the leak, it helps to know the most likely causes. SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach in St. Johns County, FL, lists the top five events that cause water damage in the home.

The Top Incidents That Cause Water Damage

1. Damaged Appliances

Failing appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines, can leak substantial amounts of water at once. Washing machines might overflow from too much pressure on supply lines, while the pipes of old refrigerators may deteriorate and crack. Thankfully, these leaks are relatively easy to pinpoint.

2. Clogged HVAC Unit

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems require regular maintenance. When your AC pulls humidity from the air, the moisture collects in a drain pan and travels down a condensate line. Sludge, mold, and dirt can clog that line and cause water damage.

3. Plumbing Problems

From running toilets to leaking sinks, plumbing issues can become expensive and cause massive amounts of damage if it’s not handled quickly. Though it may start off small, a sudden burst pipe could be disastrous. Listen to make sure your toilet stops running after each flush and check for moisture around the pipes under your sink periodically.

4. Backed Up Sewers

Home sewage backup and flooding is sometimes unpreventable, as it is often caused by heavy rains, damage from tree roots, and collapsed lines. Sewer line leakage presents a toxic biohazard to your home that will require a professional fix and cleaning job. Never try to treat sewage flooding yourself.

5. A Leaking Roof

By the time you notice a leaky roof, you may already be looking at some extensive water damage in your attic and ceiling. If your ceiling only drips when it’s raining out, your roof is the most likely culprit. Continued leaking can ruin the structural integrity of your attic and ceiling and lead to wood rot, mold, and collapse. Have your roof fixed as soon as you notice the leak and see that the water damage is attended to immediately.

If your home has suffered from a bad leak, the cleanup and restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach can help you recover. Their highly trained staff members will personally come to your home to assess the damage, then offer you the best solution. From simple water extractions to dangerous biohazard cleanup, this local cleaning service can handle any problems caused by water damage. Call (904) 429-4457 or visit their website to learn more about their repair and restoration process.