SMALL LEAKS BECOME BIG PROBLEMS

Summertime in South Florida means rainy season has begun. It also means it’s time to make sure your home doesn’t have any window, door or roof leaks.

When there are leaks present in these areas, moisture gains access to the interior of the home. The intrusion of both water and water vapor can create enormous adverse effects, such as mold and bacterial growth on building materials like plywood, insulation and drywall, which are not designed to be exposed to moisture.

All too often, leaks — which may have taken years to occur — have been left unattended, or may have had repairs attempted by the owner or a handyman, and the leak has unexpectedly progressed.

Water can create unpredictable adverse effects on a home’s structure, and is the single most destructive factor to its structural soundness and performance.

Furthermore, the air-conditioning system of your home is not designed to manage the additional moisture load and unconditioned air that may be leaking into the climate-controlled environment of your home.

Don’t use band aids
The identification of the cause and type of leak is the most important process in the success of a repair. A “band aid” type of repair without first knowing the actual cause of water intrusion often will make the conditions worse over time, and more difficult to professionally repair.

Take time to review the surrounding areas of your home’s windows and doors, as well as the ceiling areas of your home. Look for signs of water leaks and contact a licensed contractor to make those professional repairs before rainy season plays havoc with your most prized possession.

The content of this article appeared in part in the Palm Beach Post, July 6, 2014, in the Ask the Expert column “Don’t Ignore Window, Door, and Roof Leaks” by Paul Sabatello