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“I’m a little water drop…”
What’s the number one enemy of our homes?
WATER!
When it comes to inspections this is my major concern and what I’m always thinking about as I evaluate houses.
I write this article as Mariner Cactus League baseball is underway in Peoria. There is much speculation and many interviews with coaches and players that I’ve been listening to. One of the interesting ideas is knowing your opponent. They’re talking a lot about scouting their strengths, weaknesses, psychological stamina, and all the metrics. This same principle applies when it comes to water and our houses. As a home owner caring for the long term condition of your investment I invite you to know your opponent and put yourself in the place of water, “I’m a little water drop…”
(the sing-song little teapot song carries on in my head!)
Three things to know about water outside and inside our homes:
It’s brilliant! Water always finds the shortest route to get where it is going. Holes, cavities, seen and invisible seams are all favorite routes for water. That’s why ceiling leaks can originate 20 feet from their point of origin on the roof. Don’t underestimate the intelligence of water.
It’s goal-oriented! Water is always heading down to the lowest point it can. Main levels, crawlspaces, basements and downhill. Don’t take it personal, water is just passing through our houses on its way out to sea. Water “lay-overs” in our homes can be a real nuisance. Water always has one thing in mind, go down.
It’s always ready to move! Because of the two earlier points water is always moving or about to move. If a tub overfills or outside hose is leaking beside the house, don’t think that the water is planning to stick around. You better to figure out where it heading to or where it has already moved.
