Common Causes of Indoor Flooding

indoor flooding restoration

One of the most common types of property damage in the United States is water damage – specifically indoor flooding caused by burst pipes, storm damage, or sudden overflows. Every year, countless homeowners file claims with their insurance companies for water damages. These claims range in cost from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars.

Every case of indoor flooding is unique. The damage isn’t always caused by a torrential rainstorm or sudden natural disaster. For example, an old, faulty waterpipe may randomly burst one afternoon. It seems like a small problem at first, but the results can be dire.

Here are the most common causes of indoor flooding and what you can do about them

Faulty Appliances Leak

A faulty household appliance is a common occurrence. It’s also one of the top causes of indoor flooding in the country. If you have an old dishwasher or washing machine, you must be wary of their waterlines. When these machines are old or overworked, the waterline sometimes cracks or bursts. The resulting water damage can cover the flooring and nearby walls, leading to extensive water damage and mold growth.

Plumbing Clogs Cause Backups

A plumbing clog doesn’t seem too bad in comparison to something like a torrential rainstorm. However, a plumbing clog can easily worsen if not handled appropriately and within the proper timeframe. Before you know it, that smelly clog may lead to a burst pipe in your walls. Then, the water from the pipe will continue to flow until you shut off the main water valve, putting a stop to the water. If you’re unable to get inside the walls to start repairs and remove the standing water, you risk mold and wood rot.

A Leaking Water Heater Leads to Flooding

An old, conventional water heater utilizes a bulky tank to store hot water. Over time, this water heater tank will begin to rust and corrode. Once it bursts, all of the water stored inside will be deposited onto the floor of your home. It’s tough to stop all that water from flowing freely. It will seep into the cracks and crevices of the floor, start to rot the walls, and lead to foul odors and mold growth before long.

You can prevent your water heater from bursting or leaking by providing regular maintenance and replacing the system after 12 years. After that, it’s better to invest in a new model or a tankless water heater to avoid such risks.

If you’ve recently endured indoor flooding, contact Restoration 1 of Greater Minneapolis immediately. We provide 24-hour water damage restorationso that you can live comfortably and safely in your home. Give us a call at 612-200-2302 today!

About The Author

David Tynes is the general manager of Restoration of Greater Minneapolis. David has years of experience in home and commercial restoration, and he is certified as a restoration professional by the IICRC.