ServiceMaster Restoration by Century
ServiceMaster Restoration by Century
Water backup occurs when the water around the foundation of your home exceeds the capacity of removal systems to drain it. As Houstonians know, water backup can occur from slow seepage of groundwater into the foundation walls or sewer systems overflowing after a rainstorm. So even if your home didn’t flood during Hurricane Harvey, take some precautions to prevent future water damage by using three easy strategies that will give you peace of mind the next time heavy storms hit. Remember, always contact a water damage restoration company for professional expertise and assistance if you do experience any type of water damage to your home.
Ensure Good Drainage
Poor drainage weakens your foundation and causes cracks, uneven settling, and pathways for water to enter your home. Some areas of Houston are more susceptible to flooding due to existing floodplains and what is under your home. Soils in the Houston-metropolitan area are an eclectic mix of many components, including sand, loam, and clays. Overwhelmingly, dark gumbo clay is the major soil type within the Houston city limits. On the outskirts of Harris County and surrounding cities, however, other soil types can predominate.
According to Dr. Steve George and the Texas Cooperative Extension, historically the native terrain of this part of Texas was made up of:
However, the creation of residential subdivisions may have greatly impacted the native soil. Filler “trash” clay is commonly added on top of the native soil to raise the grade above street level. In these situations, homeowners may find that they only have 1 to 2 inches of topsoil and what is below that can be anything.
Keep the Gutters Clear
In Houston, the Loblolly Pine (Pinus taeda) provide beautiful shade and architectural structure of our yards. With its columnar trunk, attractive reddish-brown bark and fast-growing habitat produce millions of pale green needles. However, a buildup of dead pine leaves can take an indirect toll on your home’s foundation.
What Can You Do?
Persistent leaks lead to mold and mildew, rot, and even termites and carpenter ants (they like chewing soggy wood since it’s soft). Yet if you fix a leak soon after it starts, there may be no long-term damage at all.
Use the services of a professional water mitigation company to sanitize, dry and prevent mold growth. ServiceMaster Restoration by Century uses a six-step water clean up process that successfully restores your home to pre-water damage condition and can help you get your home back.