As part of your spring cleaning routine, you tackle the cobwebs, dust the corners, and scrub the floors. While the primary purpose of spring cleaning is to make your home feel fresh, this annual ritual can also function as a critical early warning system. A deep clean allows you to spot subtle signs of water damage before they become major headaches. As a result, you might just save yourself a ton of money and stress.
Checking Under Sinks and Behind Appliances
When you empty cabinets under sinks, pay close attention. Look for damp spots or stains. Feel for soft areas on the cabinet floor, and check behind the dishwasher and refrigerator as well. Water leaks often start in these hidden spaces, and a slow leak can go unnoticed for months. For example, you may spot a small puddle under your kitchen sink that can turn out to be a loose pipe. You can then fix the problem before it worsens and destroys your cabinets and walls.
Inspecting Ceilings and Walls
Dusting ceiling fans and cleaning walls provides an opportunity to spot water stains. Look for discoloration, peeling paint, or bubbling wallpaper. These signs often indicate leaks from above or within the walls. Pay attention to areas around windows and skylights, as water can seep in during heavy rains.
Examining Floors and Baseboards
When you mop or vacuum, check baseboards and floor edges. Look for warping, discoloration, or mold growth. Water damage often shows up at the floor level. Feel for soft spots or spongy areas. These signs indicate water trapped underneath.
Checking Around Toilets and Showers
Cleaning your bathrooms offers a perfect time to inspect toilets and showers. Look for cracks in tiles or grout, and check for mold growth along the edges of the shower or tub. Feel for dampness around the base of the toilet. Leaky seals and cracked grout allow water to seep into walls and floors. You may not think this can happen, but a small crack in the shower grout can cause significant damage to the wall behind it.
Inspecting Outdoor Faucets and Gutters
While spring cleaning, check outdoor faucets for leaks. Ensure gutters are clean and draining properly. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and damage your roof or siding. Inspect the foundation for cracks or signs of dampness. Water can seep into your basement or crawl space, too.
Spring cleaning is more than just tidying up and making everything fresh. It’s also a chance to protect your home. By paying close attention to these areas, you can detect water damage early and prevent costly repairs to maintain the integrity of your house. If you do find water damage during your spring cleaning routine, reach out to Complete Detail Cleaning & Restoration in Troy, OH straight away for water damage restoration services.
