Wind-Driven Rains and Standing Water Can Lead to Damage
Follow the guidance below to minimize the chance of water
getting inside your home or business.
Seal Gaps
Aging and weather can lead to gaps around the penetrations
entering your home and around windows and doors.
Over time, gaps can form in areas such as where water
faucet pipes, gas pipes and air conditioning pipes enter the
walls. Gaps also may exist behind electrical outlets, junction
boxes, circuit breaker boxes and electric and water meters.
Cracks or voids under window sills also can appear due to
weather and aging. Water can enter through these openings
and cause significant damage that you may not notice until
it is too late and major repairs are needed.
To seal these gaps, apply caulk. The type of caulk you use will
depend upon the location where it’s needed. The following
are basic categories of caulk: waterproof or waterproof and
paintable.
Follow these guidelines to help determine which caulk is
appropriate for the job you are completing. All outdoor
applications should use waterproof caulking.
Waterproof Products
Caulk that keeps water out is a necessity in areas that will
be exposed to water, such as windows, doors, kitchens, and
baths, so a permanently waterproof caulk is needed. If the
caulk is not permanently waterproof, the area could be left
vulnerable to water damage and mold growth.
Waterproof and Paintable
Some projects require a caulk that is waterproof and
paintable. If the area will be exposed to water or the
outdoor elements, a permanently waterproof and shrink-/
crack-proof caulk is needed. If the caulk is not permanently
waterproof and shrink-/crack-proof, the area could be left
vulnerable to water damage and mold growth. If the caulk
needs to match the exact color of the adjacent surface, it also
needs to be paintable.
(Source: https://www.disastersafety.org/high_winds/water-damage-solutions/)
Guy Carpenter & Company, a leading global risk
and reinsurance specialist, is proud to support
AMERIND in a partnership benefitting families
and students in Indian Country.
.
learn more at guycarp.com