Most Frequent Causes of Water Damage in Gainesville, FL: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know
websitebuilder • July 31, 2024
Most Frequent Causes of Water Damage in Gainesville: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know
As a homeowner in Gainesville, you know that Florida's climate is a blessing and a curse. Abundant sunshine and warmth make for paradise living, but they also bring the risk of intense storms, humidity, and the potential for water damage. PUDDLES Restoration of Gainesville, we're your neighbors and water damage restoration experts. We've seen firsthand the most common causes of water damage in our area and are dedicated to helping homeowners understand and mitigate these risks.
The Unique Water Damage Challenges of Gainesville
Our region faces a unique set of water damage challenges due to:
- Subtropical Climate: Heavy rainfall, high humidity, and the occasional hurricane or tropical storm create a perfect environment for water to infiltrate homes.
- Aging Infrastructure: Many homes in Gainesville, FL were built decades ago. Older plumbing systems, roofs, and foundations can be more susceptible to leaks and deterioration.
- Seasonal Residents: Snowbirds who leave their homes vacant for part of the year may not immediately notice slow leaks or plumbing issues, allowing damage to escalate.
- Sinkholes: While less common, sinkholes are a geological risk in Florida. They can cause sudden and significant structural damage, potentially impacting plumbing and drainage.
The Most Frequent Culprits of Water Damage in Homes
Let's dive into the most prevalent causes of water damage we encounter in Gainesville:
- Plumbing Issues:
- Leaky pipes: Corrosion, loose connections, and age-related wear and tear are common culprits. Even a slow drip can cause significant damage over time.
- Clogged drains: Blockages can lead to backups, overflowing sinks, tubs, or toilets, and water damage to floors and walls.
- Water heater failures: Old or malfunctioning water heaters can burst, releasing large volumes of water into your home.
- Washing machine malfunctions: Hoses can burst or leak, causing flooding in laundry rooms and surrounding areas.
- Roof Leaks:
- Damage Shingles: Wind, hail, and debris can damage or dislodge shingles, allowing water to seep in.
- Clogged gutters: Leaves and debris can obstruct gutters, causing rainwater to overflow and seep into your roof or foundation.
- Poorly sealed flashing: Gaps around chimneys, vents, and skylights are vulnerable entry points for water.
- HVAC Problems:
- Condensation leaks: Air conditioners produce significant amounts of condensation. If the drainage system is clogged or damaged, water can overflow and damage ceilings and walls.
- Leaky pipes: Pipes carrying condensation or coolant can leak, causing water damage inside walls or ceilings.
- Foundation Issues:
- Cracks in foundation: Soil shifts, settling, and tree roots can cause cracks in your foundation, allowing water to enter your crawl space or basement.
- Hydrostatic pressure: During heavy rains, water can build up around your foundation, exerting pressure that forces it through cracks and into your home.
- Appliance Malfunctions:
- Dishwasher leaks: Damaged hoses or seals can lead to leaks under or around dishwashers.
- Refrigerator leaks: Water line leaks or defrost drain issues can cause water damage to floors and surrounding areas.
What You Can Do: Proactive Water Damage Prevention
Taking preventative measures can significantly reduce your risk of water damage:
- Regular Inspections: Schedule annual plumbing and roof inspections to identify potential problems before they escalate.
- Prompt Repairs: Address any leaks or plumbing issues immediately. Even minor leaks can worsen quickly.
- Clean Gutters: Clear debris from gutters and downspouts regularly, especially during the fall when leaves accumulate.
- Proper Landscaping: Ensure proper grading around your foundation to direct water away from your home.
- Monitor Your Water Bill: A sudden spike in your water bill could indicate a hidden leak.
- Seasonal Preparation: Before leaving your home for an extended period, turn off the water supply, drain pipes, and have someone check on your property regularly.
When Disaster Strikes: PUDDLES Restoration is Here to Help
If water damage does occur, time is of the essence. Our 24/7 emergency response team is ready to deploy anytime, day or night. We'll arrive promptly, assess the damage, and implement a customized restoration plan to mitigate further damage and restore your home to its pre-loss condition.
Don't Let Water Damage Ruin Your Piece of Paradise
Gainesville are wonderful places in Florida to live, and your home is an investment worth protecting. By understanding the common causes of water damage and taking preventative steps, you can safeguard your property and enjoy peace of mind. And remember, PUDDLES Restoration Services of Gainesville is always here to help!
Contact us today at (352) 722-3790
Together, we'll keep your home dry.
EXAMINATION: Individuals seeking licensure as a Mold Remediator must first take and pass a department approved exam for mold remediation. For information about the examination, visit the Examination Information webpage. EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE : A copy of a transcript is required demonstrating an Associate of Arts degree or higher in microbiology, engineering, architecture, industrial hygiene or occupational safety or related field of science from an accredited institution. The applicant must also demonstrate a minimum of 1 year of documented field experience in a field related to mold remediation; or a high school diploma and 4 years of documented field experience in a field related to mold remediation. This is not a complete listing of educational and experience requirements. Please see the application instructions page for complete information. FINGERPRINTS: An applicant must have a background check as part of the licensing process. You must submit your fingerprints using a Livescan Service Provider registered with FDLE immediately after submitting your application for licensure. It may take up to five days for your fingerprint results to be received by the Department after they are submitted to the Florida Department of Law enforcement (FDLE). Please note that the Florida Department of Law Enforcement requires that an application for licensure should precede the submission of your fingerprints. To learn more about fingerprinting, please visit our Fingerprinting webpage . INSURANCE: Applicants for a Mold Remediator license are required to attest that they have obtained general liability insurance in the amount of no less than $1 million dollars as determined by statute. FEE: Pay the required fee as provided in the application. If applying online, you can pay with a credit card or electronic check. If mailing your application, please include a check payable to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Military veterans, their spouses and Florida National Guard members may be eligible for a fee waiver, fee reimbursement, and/or fee discount. Please visit our DBPR Military Services page for more information. APPLICATION: Complete the application by clicking on the "Online Services" link or the "Printable Application" link at the bottom of the page. NOTICE FOR APPLICANTS SUBMITTING FINGERPRINTS WHERE CRIMINAL RECORD RESULTS WILL BE USED FOR LICENSING PURPOSES PUDDLES Restoration Phone: (352) 722-3790 Email: Info@PUDDLESrestoration.com Website: www.PUDDLESrestoration.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/puddlesrestoration Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/puddlesrestoration/ Licenses & Certifications : • FL Licensed Mold Assessor • FL Licensed Mold Remediator • IICRC Odor Control Technician (OCT) • IICRC Applied Structural Drying (ASD) • IICRC Water Damage Restoration (WRT) • IICRC Health and Safety Technician (HST) • IICRC Mold Remediation Specialist (MRS) • IICRC Commercial Drying Specialist (CDS) • IICRC Trauma and Crime Scene Technician (TCST) • IICRC Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT) • IICRC Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration Technician (FSRT) • Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) Certified Firm
In the State of Florida, the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) licenses and regulates mold assessors and mold remediators. To become licensed, individuals need to meet specific education and experience requirements, pass an approved examination, and undergo a criminal background check. Licensing Requirements: Requires specific education (e.g., Associate's degree in a related field) and documented field experience, or a high school diploma with more experience. Mold Remediator: Requires the same educational and experience qualifications as a mold assessor, plus passing a department-approved exam. Examination: Both mold assessors and remediators must pass a state-approved examination. Background Check: A criminal background check is part of the licensing process. Fees: Application and licensing fees apply, and are non-refundable. PUDDLES Restoration Phone: (352) 722-3790 Email: Info@PUDDLESrestoration.com Website: www.PUDDLESrestoration.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/puddlesrestoration Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/puddlesrestoration/ Licenses & Certifications : • FL Licensed Mold Assessor • FL Licensed Mold Remediator • IICRC Odor Control Technician (OCT) • IICRC Applied Structural Drying (ASD) • IICRC Water Damage Restoration (WRT) • IICRC Health and Safety Technician (HST) • IICRC Mold Remediation Specialist (MRS) • IICRC Commercial Drying Specialist (CDS) • IICRC Trauma and Crime Scene Technician (TCST) • IICRC Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT) • IICRC Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration Technician (FSRT) • Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) Certified Firm
Two referral partners (Ref Ptnrs A & B) called us to perform an emergency water damage inspection b/c they were told that houses Y & Z were wet. Ref Ptnr A had one business day left for the inspection period. Ref Ptnr B was accused of causing water to get under ¾ inch solid glued-down wood flooring (these were really nice floors), and the contractor started removing the floor. Fortunately, Ref Ptnr B was able to convince the contractor to STOP removing any more flooring by saying, “My guy is licensed and certified and has the correct equipment to determine if the floor is wet, and he [ PUDDLES ] will be here by 7:00 AM tomorrow to inspect the floor.” CONCLUSION: Neither house Y or Z was wet. If the floors had read wet: Ref Ptnr A’s real estate deal would have failed, and Ref Ptnr B would have incurred 10X what he was paid to fix the floor. Our followers know that green is good when using a Protimeter MMS3 moisture meter, but to be safe, we also used a FLIR infrared camera and a Tramex CMEX5 Moisture meter to inspect the ensuite master bathroom-tiled floor.
Slow Leaks vs Fast Leaks Gainesville, FL 32601 We are often asked which is worse: Slow Leaks or Fast Leaks?
Protect your home with expert mold cleanup in Gainesville, FL. Call Puddles Restoration at (352) 722-3790 today for fast and professional service.
Protect your home with expert mold cleanup in Gainesville, FL. Call Puddles Restoration at (352) 722-3790 today for fast and professional service.
What Happened A contractor in Gainesville, FL stopped his team from “removing” the “mold problem” by, as they suggested, "spraying it with bleach." The contractor insisted that the mold remediation be done correctly and called PUDDLES . Upon completion of the work, PUDDLES insisted that the client retain an independent company to conduct a post remediation verification test to confirm that the mold remediation was done correctly. We were "lucky" to pass a PRV with a gaping hole in the floor.
What Happened The gaps between the ceiling drywall and the light fixtures allowed dirty air from the attic to mix with the air conditioner air, resulting in mold growth in the ceiling. CAN’T YOU JUST WIPE IT [MOLD] OFF! PUDDLES: No We get that a lot for mold removal, except it is usually said as a statement rather than a question. CALLER: Why not? PUDDLES: For many reasons: (1) the lab results confirmed it is mold, (2) it is on drywall, (3) the affected material is a popcorn ceiling, (3) …, (4) …, but more importantly, we don’t do that -- “wipe off drywall.” CALLER: But I was told you can. PUDDLES: You can, but we don’t; and we understand if you wish to call another company who would do that. No hard feelings. CALLER: Two days later: Caller agrees to us removing the affected material starting at 6:30 AM the next business day. Typically, the mold you cannot see is worse than the mold you can see. The same thing applied here.
Not calling PUDDLES will cost you more $$$$. Tarping your roof immediately after it is damaged will minimize secondary damages which ultimately saves you (the property owner) and your insurance company a significant amount of money. In this case, both the homeowner and their public adjuster chose a different (cheaper) company. That company never showed, never called, never emailed, never text; they did nothing. What Happened Hurricane Helene happened in Gainesville, FL.
Tarping your roof immediately after it is damaged will minimize secondary damages, which ultimately saves you (the property owner) and your insurance company a significant amount of money. What Happened Severe winds in Gainesville, FL bent numerous shingles allowing water penetration when it rains.
