These 5 simple tips will help prevent a water loss from occurring at your home or business.

Tip #1 – Be Aware of Where You Plant

A variety of plants and trees can be used in the landscaping of your home or business. Certain plants and trees have aggressive roots that will grow in any direction, especially to find a water source. These roots can penetrate sewage lines, drain pipes, or sprinkler systems, leading to serious water damage for you.

Tip #2 – Keep Your Gutters Clear

Gutters that are clogged with leaves, bird nests, and sticks are a significant cause of many water losses. When a gutter is clogged and cannot properly drain, you run the risk of not only a leak through your roof or foundation, but also cracked driveways, affected foundations, and more. For more information about the damage that can occur from clogged gutters as well as gutter cleaning tips, visit: Preparing for Fall: Keeping Rain Gutters Clear to Avoid Water Damage.

Tip #3 – Pay Attention to Your Water Bill

Keeping an eye on your water bill is key to catching leaking pipes before the damage happens or becomes noticeable. If you see your water bill starting to increase or receive one that is uncommonly high, there’s a good chance that there is a water leak occurring. Often pipes are behind walls or underneath your floors where you can’t see a leaking pipe until the damage has already caused a problem.

Tip #4 – Don’t Use Chemicals to Unclog Your Drains

When you use powerful chemicals to unclog your drains, those chemicals slowly eat away at your pipes. Placing a catcher over your drain will collect all the particles that often cause your drain to clog. You can also use a drain snake to help unclog your drains – they’re inexpensive and can be found at your local hardware store!

Tip #5 – Never Pour Grease Down the Sink

It does not matter if you’re pouring grease down the sink with hot water, cold water, or detergent; it can still harden and cling to your pipes causing blockage. The best thing to do with grease is to pour it into a cup or can that can be disposed of later. Simply pour the liquid into the cup, let it harden and then toss it in the trash!

Learn how to prevent your home or business from having water damage with these easy DIY tips!

About Woodard Cleaning & Restoration

Woodard Cleaning & Restoration was founded in 1946 by Earl and Nancy Woodard. Located in St. Louis, Missouri, Woodard services the greater metro area (Illinois, St. Charles County, Jefferson County, St. Louis County, and many more). Woodard is proud to serve as the preferred provider for cleaning & restoration services. Our cleaning services include carpet, hard surface, furniture, and rug cleaning for both residential and commercial properties. We also provide water, fire, board-up, storm and smoke restoration services for residential and commercial clients. For information or questions submit a form online or call us at 314-227-3932.

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Updated 4/9/2014