Water Where You Want It, Where You Don't

Water is an essential component of any home. It provides drinking and cooking water, bathing functions, and removal of waste from the building. These systems are sealed and should function properly when maintained but corrosion and leaking and premature failure can cause many problems such as structural damage or mold growth. Simply monitoring your water fixtures such as sinks, toilets, bathrooms exterior faucets and hot water heater on a regular basis looking for leakage or excessive corrosion is an effective way of heading off larger problems.

Another major source of unwanted water intrusion can be from roof leaks where vent penetrations, chimneys, wind driven rain, and failing shingles can allow water to enter the attic and/or living space.

The gutter system on a house serves a function besides keeping water off of your head. It's main purpose is to collect water from the roof and discharge it away from the foundation and base of the house to prevent erosion and for the long term stability of the building. Regular cleaning of the gutters and maintaining the downspout and leader discharge system will help prevent water intrusion issues, particularly if there is a crawlspace or basement area.

A good adage for a building is to have "a good hat and dry feet".