Vacation homes and cabins are idyllic retreats, but they are also susceptible to water damage, especially when left unattended for long periods. A friend of mine recently bought a vacation home/airbnb up north. He was all excited until the stress hit him about the new responsibilities and all the issues that can go wrong. We talked about the things he can do to help prevent issues with water damage. He encouraged me to share the tips with more people, so here they are.
1. Inspect and Maintain Plumbing Systems:
Before leaving your vacation home unattended, inspect and maintain plumbing systems to prevent leaks and bursts. Check for dripping faucets, loose connections, and signs of corrosion, and repair any issues promptly. Consider installing smart leak detection devices for added peace of mind.
2. Winterize for Cold Weather:
If your vacation home is located in a cold climate, take steps to winterize it before the freezing temperatures arrive. Drain water from pipes, shut off outdoor faucets, and insulate exposed plumbing to prevent frozen and burst pipes. Keep the heating system running or use a smart thermostat to maintain a consistent temperature inside the home.
3. Monitor Humidity Levels:
Excessive humidity can lead to mold growth and structural damage in vacation homes, especially in humid climates or during warmer months. Use a dehumidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels indoors and prevent moisture-related issues. Use a dehumidifier that you can set up to automatically drain so it will run when you are away and keep air circulating with fans.
4. Install Smart Home Technology:
Invest in smart home technology to monitor and control your vacation home's environment remotely. Smart thermostats, water leak detectors, and security cameras with moisture detection capabilities allow you to stay informed and address potential water damage issues promptly, even when you're miles away. I have had helped homeowners in the past that were Mexico and got an alert from the smart technology that the home was humid. They called me and I was able to go over and stop the damage from the water leak from getting any worse. They were not going to be home for another 5 days so it would have damaged much more of their home. Also check with your insurance company they may give you a discount on your rates depending on what you install.
5. Arrange Regular Property Checks:
Enlist the help of a trusted friend, neighbor, or property management service to perform regular checks on your vacation home while you're away. Request visual inspections of plumbing fixtures, appliances, and the interior and exterior of the property to identify and address any issues before they escalate.
6. Maintain Gutters and Drainage Systems:
Keep gutters and drainage systems clear of debris to prevent water from accumulating near the foundation of your vacation home. Clean gutters regularly and ensure downspouts direct water away from the property to prevent water intrusion and potential flooding during heavy rainstorms.
7. Address Landscaping and Grading Issues:
Inspect the landscaping around your vacation home and ensure the ground slopes away from the foundation to encourage proper drainage. Address any grading issues or landscaping features that could cause water to pool near the property, leading to water damage and erosion over time.
8. Plan for Emergency Preparedness:
Create a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan for your vacation home, including contact information for local restoration professionals, utility providers, and emergency services. Keep important documents, such as insurance policies and property records, in a waterproof and accessible location.
Preserve Paradise with Proactive Prevention
By implementing these proactive prevention strategies, you can protect your vacation home or cabin from water damage and ensure it remains a tranquil and inviting retreat for years to come.
At Renew by Grewe Restoration, we understand the importance of preserving your vacation home's tranquility and beauty. Contact us for expert guidance and assistance in preventing water damage and maintaining your retreat paradise.
Warm regards,
Brady Grewe
Owner
Renew by Grewe Restoration
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