Protect your home from water damage using these smart tips

The winter can be a harsh time for your home so it's important to protect it inside and out from top to bottom! Home and design expert Ramsin Khachi is here with the best tips to save yourself from the costly expense of water damage!

Exterior 

Opt in on the bells and whistles when doing your roof 

Items such as ice and water shield, drip edge and an upgraded shingle are worth the investment. Check your roof annually for damaged shingles and other possible areas where water can get into your home. A ice and water shield and drip edge are great options as well. 

Roofing, evestrough and foundation waterproofing products via HomeDepot

Inspect and clean gutters and downspouts reguarly 

Clean your gutters at least twice a year to avoid blockage and ice dams. Unmanaged overflow may create puddles that could damage your foundation. And don’t forget to clean downspouts to ensure water can flow through, and secure and direct downspouts so that they drive water away from the home.

Intelliflow via Amazon

Caulking and foundation 

Inspect and redo caulking as required on all doors and windows! Using a professional caulking contractor is recommended so you don't make any mistakes yourself. For the foundation, ensure you have waterproof foundation walls and inspect them regularly. Use products such as Blueskin or Delta foundation membrane to prevent water penetration. 

Interior 

Waterproof showers and steam rooms 

This is the latest technology to help reduce the potential for water leaks. You can also build shower walls and ceilings using Kerdi Panels and Schluter waterproofing membranes.

Shouted Shower Waterproofing via Schluter

Upgrade washing machine hoses 

Old, brittle or leaky washing machine hoses are among the most frequent causes of water loss for homeowners. Replace yours with stronger braided hoses that are more reliable to avoid a mighty mess and expensive damage. If you're renovating, use a central shut-off system to endure easy access so that the unit can be turned off when not in use. A valve hub is a great option as well. 

Oatey Quadro Washing Machine Outlet Box via HomeDepot

Use water detection services 

A water detector is a small electronic device that sounds an alarm when its sensor is in contact with moisture. Its main benefit is that it detects low moisture levels or slow leaks that often go unnoticed. Install it near water heaters, sump pumps, washing machines, dishwashers and toilets or inside a sink cabinet to prevent extensive damage. 

Honrywell WiFi Water Leak and Freeze Detector via HomeDepot

Phyn Smart Water Assistant via Phyn