Water damage can wreak havoc in your home. If left untreated, it can lead to mold growth and an increased risk of structural integrity problems. This is why it is so important to both treat water damage immediately and take steps to avoid having the problem in the first place. Water damage can happen easily. According to Water Damage Defense, a continuously running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water each day, while a one-eighth inch crack in a pipe can spill 250 gallons in a single day. To avoid this water damaging your home, take these four steps.

Clean Your Gutters

Your gutters exist to help water flow from your roof to the ground. This helps avoid water getting into the attic, where it can cause water damage. However, sometimes your gutters will get clogged, causing the water to back up onto the roof. To avoid this issue, clean your gutters regularly. Add it to your maintenance schedule and you won't need to worry about calling a water damage restoration company for help.

Maintain Your Roof

If your roof is damaged, water can easily get in. It is very important to maintain your roof and make sure that all repairs are done promptly. To do this, have a contractor inspect the roof each year and check for any issues. Catching problems early will help you minimize the potential for water damage.

Keep Pipes from Freezing

One common reason people need to call a water damage restoration company is that their frozen pipes burst. If you live in a cold climate, make sure that you take steps to prevent your pipes from freezing. Otherwise, they might thaw and burst, causing massive water damage inside your home.

Regularly Check for Mold

If you have mold, it is likely because of water damage. While the damage might already be done, a water damage restoration company will be able to help you eliminate the mold and avoid any further damage. So make sure you check your house for mold on a regular basis.

The best way to avoid water damage is through planning ahead. A little work beforehand will help you to avoid or minimize the damage that might occur. Apply these four tips to your home maintenance schedule in order to protect your home from water damage.