Emergency Water Damage, Damp & Mold Prevention

Dear people of Israel,

The storm is finally upon us, and although we are in need of the wet stuff in this start-stop fashion, which is normal for Central, Israel we are not at all used to the amount falling in such short increments of time.

The trends are also showing more rains in the south and less in the north.

Unfortunately, there is not enough information going around of what homeowners can do so I am going to share with you a list of tips to help you deal with potential issues.

#1 – Porch Drain – Have a professional make sure that the drains are not clogged, and are the correct size (width and circumference) for drainage, and have filters that will prevent the entry of fallen leaves or other debris that may cause blockages.

#2 – Window Caulking- Windows must be sealed correctly with caulk to prevent water seepage into the home. Look at the joint area between the window frame and wall, if it deteriorated and you can see it coming off it ain’t doing its job, look for signs of peeling paint on the inside to confirm.

#3 – Inspection – It’s best to know what areas are developing moisture buildup or are highly likely to eventually do so – The cost of an inspection from an experienced professional with a moisture detection tool will generally begin at 1200 + mam and may cost upwards of 2500 + mam (depending on the size of property and reports) and up with an official document. – For a video describing how Water Damage assessments and our tools work click here – https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=549077368862285&id=196271387109398

#4 – Joint Sealant in Bathroom + kitchen – All showers and bathtubs should be sealed with a strong anti-mold sealant to prevent water buildup along the walls. The space between the countertop and backsplash should be sealed to prevent water from seeping behind cabinetry (irreparable damage to woodwork and growth of mold is common when this isn’t done properly). Use a high-quality anti-mold sealant made outside of Israel such as Foreverwhite, Sika – Bathroom.

#5- Bathroom Ceilings, laundry rooms – and any other area exposed to high humidity and moisture and potential condensation should be painted with high-quality water-resistant anti-mold paint to prevent mold issues from condensation. Especially if it is a shared wall with the outside as the temperature difference often results in condensation and mold. – For an explanation on why you have mold click here – https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=463630064139138&id=196271387109398

#6 – Home Insurance – If you are buying a home then find a reputable insurance company, used by people that you know personally and that can vouch for their service – For a link to an expose on Israeli Insurance companies click here – https://blogs.timesofisrael.com/homeowners-stop-losing/

#7 – External Wall Check – Check for signs of pressure cracks, gaps in stones, and between stones that may be letting water into the building. You will usually find these sign above the areas that is water damaged or moldy. Look for peeling on the inside and then inspect the outer wall directly on the other side from the point of damage, you will likely find cracks above the area of the damage. – For a video explaining why you have mold – Click here – https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=463630064139138&id=196271387109398

#8 -External Wall Sealant – Each stone home should ideally be sealed with a water repellent every 5 years to prevent the buildup of moisture on the inside causing mold-inducing humidity. Stones used are porous and often prone to cracking, once the moisture has entered it will travel down as a result of gravity.

#9 – Air Conditioners + Holes – Air conditioners can be notorious for leaking water. Make sure they are not by inspecting the surrounding area where the drainage pipe and AC unit connect to the wall for any wetness. It is also common that AC unit installers will leave gaping holes in the external walls when fitting in the new AC. It is unfortunate and happens very often. Check the external walls for holes that may let moisture into the home.

#10 – Ceiling/Roof – Peeling paint and bubbling on your ceiling are often a sign that moisture is entering via your roof or a porch above.

Check the substrate of your roof in order to see if it is in good condition.

If you find green growth, air bubbles, or parts of the substrate coming off you know that these are areas where water may enter into your roof – For a link to a video describing how to see and define water damage from water intrusion click here – https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1613889125383062&id=196271387109398

I hope you don’t need to use this but if you do, I advise saving the article somewhere you can access it easily.