Water is one of the greatest enemies of buildings, and if adequate precautions are not taken, it can seriously degrade the
houses / buildings. Given below are the easy to follow tips to prevent your house / building from water damages:-
- During construction, water-proofing treatment should be done without fail.
- To facility air movement and to prevent odours, all rooms of the house / building should have cross ventilation and sunlight should be allowed to enter areas that are prone to dampness.
- Areas with dipping water should be periodically mopped to avoid stains on the floor.
- Walls that have constant contact with water should have cladding with glazed tiles or enamel paint. Shower curtains in the bathroom have to be wiped dry after taking bath since mouldy patches left on the plastic are difficult to clean.
- Where natural ventilation is not possible in the rooms, air-conditions, air-purifiers, fans and humidifiers can help maintain optimum humidity.
- Woodwork used for cabinets in wet areas should be raised above floor level if there is water. They should be coated with melamine layer or should be fabricated from water proof plywood with laminated surfaces.
- The interiors of wardrobes which are dark and damp are often prone to silverfish and mould. These cause patches on internal walls, wood work and clothes. To overcome this problem, naphthalene and silica gel desiccant packets can be used.
- Absorbent floor mats can be used to absorb water from rainy footwear and avoid muddy patches on clean tiles and carpets.
- Also periodically check the hoses that lead to washing machines, dish-water and refrigerator every year for cracks and water leaks, and replace them if required.
- Check the caulking around the showers, tubs and make sure that they are water- tight. If water supply pipe suddenly bursts, it is better to know in advance how to shut off the main water supply connection.