SERVPRO® of Northeast Fort Worth strives to provide customers with the water damage restoration services they need when disaster strikes. Keeping the attic dry and free of mold, mildew, and wood rot requires intentionality and effort on the part of the homeowner. Regular maintenance will keep the attic in good shape, and frequent inspections will reveal any water leaks or excess moisture.
The leading cause of water damage in the attic is a roof leak. Any water intrusion in the attic will result in water damage. An attic inspection should identify roof issues that could introduce water and moisture into the environment. The inspection tips below can help homeowners prevent a water damage disaster in the attics of Watauga, TX, homes.
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1. Maintain the roof to keep it in top shape
Proper roof maintenance begins with a thorough inspection. Because the roof is difficult to inspect from the ground, areas of the roof that can be observed from the ground require the skill of a trained eye for a proper inspection. A close inspection can only be conducted by putting boots on the roof. However, in recent years, drone technology has made it possible to make an accurate assessment from the air. Whatever course of action is chosen, remember to stay safe. Secure the services of a roofing contractor to inspect the roof annually. Many roofing contractors will conduct a free inspection to obtain future business and clients.
Repair any damage as quickly as possible. Damaged flashing, missing shingles, sagging or warped sheathing, and dry rot around the eaves and gutters need immediate attention. Often, a reputable roofing contractor will identify issues and recommend solutions.
2. Make sure the attic receives proper ventilation
Poor ventilation can allow humidity levels in the attic to rise dramatically. Excess moisture and heat are two significant factors that encourage mold growth in the attic. Robust ventilation prevents warm, moist air from becoming trapped in the attic. The failure to keep the air in the attic moving can result in serious mold issues.
3. Make sure appliances are ventilating properly
Check to ensure that all vented appliances are correctly installed and are being vented through the roof to the outside. Venting only to the attic can cause odors, increase moisture levels, lead to mold infestation, and possibly cause a fire damage disaster. The rise in moisture levels and the smell of food will attract a host of pests who will crawl, claw, and gnaw until they discover the location of the moisture and the delicious food odors. A hungry squirrel can rapidly chew its way into an attic, and birds, rats, mice, chipmunks, skunks, and snakes will soon follow. The initial entry point could also allow for water intrusion and serious water damage.
4. Avoid water damage by thoroughly insulating the attic
Attic insulation helps maintain even temperatures in the attic and the home. A properly insulated attic can reduce power bills while reducing the potential for water damage in the attic. Wear long pants, a long shirt, a hat, and eye protection while inspecting the attic insulation. Feel the insulation. It should be dry, thick, and soft to the touch. Do not touch or rub the eyes, mouth, or face until proper cleanup has occurred. Tiny strands of fiberglass insulation can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. Contact with the skin can cause rashes. Thin, flat attic insulation may signal the presence of excessive moisture levels in the attic.
5. Keep trees trimmed and gutters clean
Trees are a beloved element of a beautiful landscape, and a beautiful treescape adds significant value to any home. However, one tree toppled by straight-line winds can demolish a house, and a large limb can puncture the roof, allowing hundreds of gallons of water to cascade into the attic and cause havoc in the home.
A healthy, well-pruned treescape will reduce limb shed. Trim limbs away from the roof, and consider removing any trees that are dangerously close to the home. Schedule an annual treescape inspection with a certified arborist once a full leaf shed has occurred in late fall. Have the tree care professional to remove any damaged or diseased limbs.
Tree care and gutter care go hand in hand. If leaf-bearing trees are present in the landscape, the property owner should inspect and clean the gutters at least twice a year. Pine trees shed their needles. After a severe storm, matted pine needles and pinecones can clog gutters. The water can backflow into the attic and make its way into the home, damaging ceilings, walls, structural timbers, baseboards, and flooring.
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How to deal with water damage in the attic
When a water leak causes water damage in the attic, call on the professionals at SERVPRO of Northeast Fort Worth. A crew of IICRC-certified technicians arrives at the damaged property in about an hour to begin the cleanup and restoration process. The customer will receive a detailed, well-documented estimate with images and video. SERVPRO of Northeast Fort Worth will handle the claims process from beginning to end.
To learn more about water damage restoration in Watauga, TX, call SERVPRO of Northeast Fort Worth, TX, at (817) 741-5737. The office can also be contacted by email at office@servpronortheastftworth.com.
