Water damage in the bathroom is a common occurrence. This of course is no surprise seeing as it houses the toilet in the home, but you may be surprised at some of the other potential causes for water damage that often go unnoticed. Luckily, a lot of these causes for water damage can be prevented with just a little bit of effort.
Toilet Maintenance & Care
Use only septic safe toilet paper if you have a septic system.
Only flush toilet paper down the toilet and avoid flushing items like sanitary napkins and diapers. Be sure to keep a watchful eye out for children around toilets.
Check for low water levels on your toilet as this could be a sign of a crack in the bowl or a clog. Always be on the lookout around the outer edge of the toilet for excess water, a moist, spongy floor, or if stains appear around the base.
Regularly check the toilet for any signs of cracks. Also check caulking to ensure seals are in good condition.
Flooring that is cracked, broken, or missing tiles needs to be repaired. The floor is a common area for water to seep into, potentially causing damage to floors and walls.
Check Valves & Replace Rubber Lines
Regularly look under sinks for signs of leaks including cracked or warped flooring. Check for condensation or corrosion up around pipes. Rubber pipes should be replaced with steel-braided lines for added security.
Valves that shut off or stop the water flow to sinks, toilets, and showers should be checked regularly to ensure they are working properly. If you have an overflow, they are the quickest way to shut off the water. Also keep an eye out for any signs of leaks like wetness or staining around the valves.
Practice Good Habits
Always use the bathroom exhaust fan or open a window when the shower is in use. Too much moisture can cause mold and mildew. Fans and circulating air will pull moisture out of the air and away from your walls.
If you notice your sink is draining slowly, it may be clogged. Do not use cleaners, as they can do damage to your pipes. Use a natural remedy, a tool, or call a professional if needed.
Keep the area around the sink and faucet dry. Water that collects and sits can mean potential for damage.
Be sure to use bathmats to avoid areas of excess water buildup. Do not let water sit. Dry up any standing water and drain tubs immediately after use.
Replace shower curtains that are moldy or torn. Replace seals if they no longer work.
Watch for excess water when children are in the tub. Wipe up any spills on floors or walls as soon as possible.
Water damage can quickly become costly and intrusive. Taking the time now to do checks and repairs can go a long way in preventing disasters down the road.
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