Water damage is one of the most common and costly disasters a homeowner can face—and the worst part? Most water damage starts small and silently grows until it becomes a major (and expensive) problem. Whether it’s a slow pipe leak, clogged gutter, or foundation crack, the key to avoiding water damage is prevention. In this blog, we’re breaking down practical steps you can take right now to protect your home from water damage before it starts.
At A+ Restoration, we’ve helped hundreds of Covington-area homeowners recover from water damage—and we’ve learned exactly what it takes to stop it from happening in the first place. If you’re ready to keep your home dry and safe, read on.
Table of Contents
1. Regularly Inspect Your Plumbing System
Your plumbing is the first line of defense against indoor water damage—but it’s also one of the most common sources of leaks.
What to check:
- Under sinks for signs of dripping or corrosion
- Around toilets and tubs for loose seals or moisture
- Behind appliances like your washer or dishwasher for hose leaks
- Basement pipes for condensation, rust, or pooling water
Pro Tip: Replace rubber washing machine hoses with braided stainless steel—they’re less likely to burst.
“What are common causes of water damage in homes?”
Leaky pipes, aging water heaters, failed sump pumps, clogged drains, and poor drainage systems are among the top culprits.
2. Maintain Your Roof and Gutters
A healthy roof is your home’s first shield against water intrusion. One small crack or missing shingle can allow water to seep in and damage your attic, insulation, and walls.
Steps to take:
- Inspect your roof at least twice a year for damaged or missing shingles
- Clean your gutters in the spring and fall to prevent clogs
- Check downspouts to make sure water flows away from your foundation
- Look for signs of roof leaks like stains on ceilings or attic moisture
If you’ve already experienced a roof leak, our storm damage cleanup experts can help you assess and restore any water damage quickly.
3. Monitor Your Basement and Foundation
Basements are notorious for water issues. Whether it’s a slow leak or a flood, moisture in your lower level can lead to mold, structural damage, and ruined belongings.
How to protect your basement:
- Seal foundation cracks with waterproof epoxy or have a professional repair them
- Install a sump pump and test it regularly
- Use a dehumidifier to control humidity
- Avoid storing valuables directly on the floor in case of flooding
“How do I waterproof my basement to prevent water damage?”
Waterproofing often includes sealing wall cracks, applying waterproof coatings, installing a sump pump, and improving outside drainage around the foundation.
4. Install Water Detection Devices
Technology can help you stop water damage before it starts. Water sensors can detect leaks early—even in hidden spots.
Install sensors in:
- Laundry rooms
- Under sinks
- Behind the refrigerator or dishwasher
- Near the water heater
- In the basement
Many modern devices connect to your phone, sending alerts when they detect moisture. Some even shut off the water automatically to prevent flooding.
Need help cleaning up after a surprise leak? Our water damage cleanup team in Covington is just a call away.
5. Prepare Your Home for Weather Events
Storms, heavy rain, and snow melts can overwhelm your home’s defenses if you’re not prepared. Water damage from severe weather is especially common in Northern Kentucky.
How to storm-proof your home:
- Clean your gutters and downspouts before a storm
- Install window well covers to prevent water pooling around basement windows
- Use sandbags if your area is flood-prone
- Check your yard’s grading to ensure water flows away from the home
If a storm does cause water damage, A+ Restoration offers full-service flood and storm damage cleanup to get your home back to normal fast.
Don’t Wait for a Leak to Take Action — Protect Your Home Now
Water damage can be devastating, but it’s also largely preventable with a little maintenance and vigilance. If your home has already experienced water damage—or if you want a professional inspection to make sure you’re protected—A+ Restoration is here for you.
From burst pipe restoration to full water damage cleanup, we’re Covington’s trusted name in home restoration.
Call us today at 859-568-5284
Visit aplusrestoration.org
Or find us on Google Maps
Your home is your biggest investment—let’s keep it dry, safe, and protected year-round.