Water damage can be blamed on a lot of culprits. When water damage is left unattended for as little as 24 hours, mold can develop. Mold can cause several health-related issues and structural damage to your home. Here are the most common causes of residential water damage in Sonoma County, and why you need the services of a water damage restoration company as soon as possible. 

Burst Pipes

The most common cause of residential water damage is a burst pipe. Pipes burst and leak for several reasons, including freezing during the winter, general wear and tear, and unregulated water pressure. When these leaks occur, they can quickly damage your floor, carpet, furniture, and other personal belongings. 

Sewage Backup

Sewage backups are another common cause of residential water damage, and unfortunately, they’re one of the most serious because they contain what’s known as blackwater. When wastewater is unable to drain properly, it can cause a backup because the water will continue to fill your drain pipes. Because wastewater can contain harmful bacteria, this kind of residential water damage needs to be taken care of immediately so no one in your house gets sick.

Household Plumbing Issues

Sometimes, residential water damage is caused by plumbing problems hidden in the pipes and hoses located in the interior of your walls. Because of this, they can be challenging to detect, which could only exacerbate the water damage. Since this plumbing issue can’t be detected simply by looking at it, make sure you’re cognizant of the following:

• Overflowing toilet
• Dripping faucet
• Water pooling around the base of your toilet, bathtub, or sink

Defective or Broken Appliances

Household items like your water heater and washing machine operate often, so it’s normal for them to develop some wear and tear over the course of their lifetime. Washing machines have a shelf life of up to 13 years, while water heaters can last up to 12. When these items begin to break down, they can start to leak water due to cracked pipes. In other cases, they may have been defective at the onset of their installation. 

In addition to these, other household appliances like dishwashers and even your refrigerator can cause water damage if they have a clogged defrost drain or leaky water supply line. 

Clogged Gutters

This is one of the most serious types of water damage because it can affect your home’s foundation. Gutters are designed to drain water from your home. When they are clogged due to leaves or other objects, the water starts to flow over the gutter and to the side of your home, causing it to seep into the ground around the foundation. Prolonged water exposure will cause the house to shift and sink into the ground. 

Get Water Damage Restoration Help From the Pros at California Steam Clean 

As you can see, the damage caused by water can be serious. If you recently experienced residential water damage, don’t wait until it gets worse. Call the pros at California Steam Clean at (707) 236-8798. A call to us is your best defense against residential water damage in Sonoma County.