All Nation Restoration understands the disruption and expense involved in water damage restoration in Austin, TX. The stress that a water damage disaster generates is most painfully experienced when the interruption involves the kitchen, the hub of activity in the home. To help homeowners avoid the inconvenience and expense associated with water damage in the kitchen, All Nation Restoration highlights common causes of water leaks in this central room in every home.
Sources of Water Leaks in the Kitchen
The kitchen is a hub of activity in most homes. Work, school, crafts, hobbies, games, business meetings, family time, and, of course, meals take place at or around the table. The stove, microwave oven, and refrigerator are focal points of cooking activities, and the sink and dishwasher are no less congested with kitchen traffic.
To help homeowners avoid the inconvenience and expense associated with water damage in the kitchen, All Nation Restoration is highlighting common causes of water leaks in this central room in every home. These water leaks, if not addressed, can lead to serious water damage in the kitchen.
Refrigerator Leaks
The ice maker connection is a frequent culprit when a refrigerator-related water leak occurs. When a new refrigerator is installed, keep an eye on the ice maker connection. The connection can work loose, causing a small leak. Hand-tightening the connection when cleaning behind the refrigerator should keep the potential for leaks to a minimum. As many as thirty gallons of water per hour can flow out of a broken ice maker supply line.
Leaks Around the Sink
The sink is a primary workstation in the kitchen. Water is central to the operation of the sink, and it has the most potential failure points that could flood a kitchen with water, causing widespread damage. Faucets can leak when O-rings, washers, or gaskets wear out. Mineral buildup and corrosion on moving parts may result in a faucet malfunction. Leakage from improper installation may lead to small, undetected leaks that persist for months or even years, causing wood rot and mold. When the issue is finally discovered, the repair will most likely require trained professionals to mitigate the water damage and repair the damaged structure.
A sprayer is an indispensable tool in the sink area. However, the many connections, the constant friction on the hose, rough handling, and aging can cause sprayer failure. Several gallons a minute can pour out of a ruptured sprayer hose into the cabinets and onto the floor. Imagine this incident occurring when the homeowner is on vacation!
Main water supply lines providing hot and cold water to the sink can deteriorate over time. Leakage may occur around connections. The lines could also experience a catastrophic failure and spew as much as five to seven gallons of water per minute into the kitchen area.
Drainpipe connections over time can crack or spring a leak. At times, very hot or very cold water may be poured down the sink, and the extreme temperatures may put undue stress on the connections, resulting in a leak or a break. Pouring boiling water down the sink followed quickly by ice-cold water can be disastrous.
In addition, a garbage disposal unit is often included with the sink. Vibration, aging, and general use can lead to a leak in the unit.
The sink with all of its features is a water damage disaster waiting to happen. Frequently inspect the sink workstation. Listen for dripping water. Feel the various connections for excessive condensation or leaks. Sniff under the cabinet for a moldy, earthy smell. Test the cabinet flooring during spring cleaning for rotten spots that may indicate a persistent leak.
Leaks Around and Under the Dishwasher
The dishwasher is one of the most appreciated appliances in the kitchen. It saves time, water, and energy. However, dishwashers have special seals to keep the water in the tub, and the seals can leak over time and with use. Also, the water supply line can develop a leak where it joins to the dishwasher.
Because the appliance is stationery and only moved when it is replaced or serviced, a small leak can go undiscovered for years, causing damage to the subfloor or leading to a mold infestation. Occasionally feel along the floor in front of the dishwasher for unexplained water, moisture, or softness in the flooring. Does the appliance have a musty smell? If so, there may be a leak under the unit.
When a water leak causes water damage from a dishwasher, sink, refrigerator, or other appliance, the experts at All Nation Restoration are the knowledgeable, experienced, and well-equipped water damage specialists for the job. The water damage restoration company in Austin, TX, can manage the entire project, bring the job to completion, and provide the necessary documentation confirming that work has been completed.
For more information about property damage restoration in Austin, TX, contact the office by phone at (512) 934-8180 or email info@AllNationRestoration.com.
