As the spring rains draw to a close, the summer fun in the sun is about to begin. With the weather changing, the children out of school, and the roads much more manageable, it is no wonder that this is vacation season. Getting out of the house and maybe even out of the state is an excellent time for the whole family. But, when you are out relaxing and exploring, don’t forget about your home. Too many people pack up and hit the road for a trip only to come back to a flooded house.
Leaks and improper sealing can allow the summer thunderstorms to break into your home while you are on vacation. To avoid a puddle in your home when you return, follow our leak prevention tips below before leaving on your vacation this summer.
Check the All Around for Water Leaks
Start your home checks under your kitchen and bathroom sinks looking for leaks in the piping. Check out your water heater for any rust or cracks. Your doors and windows should be properly sealed to keep out all moisture. Finally, inspect your roof for any signs of trouble; even a weak spot could become troublesome if a big storm comes up.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
With all the leaves and twigs that can get caught in the gutters and downspouts, your house could be in trouble if you don’t clean out the area. If left cluttered, water can pool, leading to leaks and critical water damage. Take the half hour to clear the debris, and you will thank yourself later. Make sure your downspouts send water at least 10 feet away from your home.
Test the Sump Pump
If you have a sump pump, make sure to test it before heading out. Your sump pump keeps all the groundwater from trickling into your basement so it can stop a basement flood before it becomes a problem. To perform the test, fill the tank with a bucket of water and check how quickly the water goes away.
Ask Someone to Check on Your Home
Ask a friend to check in on your house to make sure everything is okay, especially if you will be out of town for more than a week. Housesitters are great to have on hand to ensure there are no problems with the house and also discourage any break-ins.
Turn off the Main Water Supply
If a family member, friend, or neighbor cannot check on your home, then shut off the water supply at the main valve to prevent issues. After shutting off the valve, ensure the water is completely drained by trying a faucet.
The team at Kelly Plumbing and Leak Detection help protect residential and commercial buildings from leaks and all other plumbing issues. If you have a trip coming up, give us a call today at 972-774-8722 to help you protect your home while you are away.