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When people think of water damage, they think of flooded basements and soggy carpets. But did you know that water damage can also happen in your laundry room? In fact, if you’re not careful, a little water can cause a lot of damage. Follow these five tips to keep your laundry room dry and damage-free!
1. Waterproof the Floor
Water damage in your laundry room can start from water leaking from your clothes washer or dryer. If you want to prevent this from happening, it’s a good idea to put down waterproof flooring mats under your laundry appliances to keep excess water from seeping into the sub-floor. This is also important if you have pets that track in mud or have dirty paws after walks. The rubberized mat will help contain the mess and extend the life of your sub-floor.
2. Drip Dry
Make sure hoses are always emptied after each load, especially large ones containing towels or bedding where soapy residue could collect at the hose opening and cause leaks later on. It would be best if you also were sure that the hose is never bent or kinked while it’s in use and not coiled up underneath your washer or dryer. Water sitting in rubber hoses can cause mold and bacteria growth, resulting in a very unpleasant musty smell and even attracting rodents to fester for too long if left alone.
3. Waterproof Your Washer & Dryer
Many newer models of front-loaded washing machines have door gaskets designed to keep water from leaking out during the wash cycle. If you’re worried about leaks with your washer, try putting an extra rubber mat on the floor under the machine to catch overspray.
If you have an older washing machine, keep an eye out for signs of rusting or other wear and tear. Water leaking from the drum can cause severe problems underneath your floor. The best way to prevent flooding is to have your washer completely replaced if there are any obvious signs of water being trapped inside.
Although not usually leaky themselves, dryers are connected to hoses just like washers. Make sure these hoses are emptied after each use. To help prolong your dryer’s lifespan, you can also purchase lint traps to keep excess water and soap from getting into the hose openings.
4. Water Removal and Cleanup
If you happen to get some water on the floor, be sure to wipe it immediately with a towel or mop. And if you have some soggy boxes or papers, make sure they dry out completely before attempting to de-wrinkle them. Put them in the dryer on an air cycle to prevent mold growing inside the paper fibers.
5. Do a Routine Maintenance
One of the best ways to prevent water damage in your laundry room is to do a routine maintenance check on your appliances. Make sure there are no leaks, and all hoses and connections are tightly sealed. Also, be sure to clean out your lint trap regularly to prevent buildup of lint or debris.
Also check your washing machine’s manual for maintenance recommendations. The manufacturer typically includes recommendations when it should be inspected by an experienced professional to prevent major issues before they arise and cause even more problems.
When it comes to water damage, prevention is better than cure. Leaks can cause many problems if not fixed immediately. Waterproofing your washer and dryer, as well as keeping up with floor mats and drip drying hoses, are just a few simple things you can do to save yourself from dealing with costly repairs. Be sure to have regular maintenance on your machines to prevent bigger problems from arising. Follow the five tips listed above and keep your laundry room dry and damage-free.
What Will Happen If There is Water Damage in My Laundry Room?
1. Water damage can cause structural problems in your home.
Water damage can cause some serious structural problems in your home, leading to costly repairs. Water can seep into the walls and foundations of your home, causing the structure to weaken and crumble over time. If you notice any water damage in your laundry room, be sure to address it right away. For water damage repair, do not attempt DIY but instead, leave the job to the experts.
2. Water can damage your furniture and other possessions.
Water can also damage your furniture and other possessions. Water can seep into the fabric of chairs, sofas, and carpets, causing them to rot, mildew, or become discolored. When water damage unavoidably happens in your laundry room, an expert plumbing service can save what’s left and prevent further damage to your property.
3. Water Damage can cause mold and bacteria to grow.
Mold and bacteria thrive in moist environments and can cause many health problems if left unchecked, your laundry room can become the perfect environment for mold and bacteria to grow, leading to respiratory problems, skin irritation, and other health problems. If you notice any water damage in your laundry room, call Combat Plumbing – your Evanston, TX water damage repair experts.
4. Water Damage can cause electrical problems.
Water can also cause electrical problems in your home. Water leaking into your outlets and switches can cause short circuiting and render them unusable. In the worst case, this can cause dangerous electrical fires.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What types of plumbing do you need for a laundry room?
You need a sanitary drainage system to dispose of wastewaters from the laundry cycle, and a potable water system to ensure your water is safe to use.
How much does it cost to install a drain in the laundry room?
The installation cost for a floor drain in the laundry room averages at $3000. But can vary depending on the size of the room, materials used, and labor cost. If you need help with plumbing installation in Evanston, call the pros at Combat Plumbing. With our 20 years of experience in the plumbing industry, we have seen and dealt with it all! We can solve your plumbing problems quickly and professionally.
