Water damage is a serious issue that can cause extensive damage to your property. It is caused by water leaking into or seeping through a building, and it can be caused by a variety of factors.

### Causes of Water Damage

Water damage can be caused by a number of different factors, including:

– **Plumbing Leaks:** This is the most common cause of water damage. Plumbing leaks can occur anywhere in your home, from faucets and toilets to pipes and water heaters.
– **Roof Leaks:** Roof leaks are another common cause of water damage. They can be caused by a number of factors, including wind, hail, and ice dams.
– **Foundation Leaks:** Foundation leaks can occur when water seeps into your home through cracks in your foundation. This can be caused by a number of factors, including poor drainage, hydrostatic pressure, and earthquakes.
– **Flooding:** Flooding is a major cause of water damage, and it can be caused by a number of factors, including heavy rains, hurricanes, and dam failures.
– **Burst Pipes:** Burst pipes are a common cause of water damage, and they can be caused by a number of factors, including freezing temperatures, corrosion, and water hammer.

### Types of Water Damage

There are two main types of water damage:

– **Clean Water Damage:** This type of water damage is caused by water that is not contaminated with sewage or other harmful substances. Clean water damage can be caused by a number of factors, including plumbing leaks, roof leaks, and flooding.
– **Dirty Water Damage:** This type of water damage is caused by water that is contaminated with sewage or other harmful substances. Dirty water damage can be caused by a number of factors, including flooding, sewage backups, and burst pipes.

## What is the Most Common Cause of Water Damage?

The most common cause of water damage is plumbing leaks. Plumbing leaks can occur anywhere in your home, from faucets and toilets to pipes and water heaters. They can be caused by a number of factors, including:

– ** Worn-out seals and gaskets:** As plumbing fixtures age, the seals and gaskets that keep them watertight can deteriorate and fail. This can lead to leaks.
– ** Loose fittings:** Plumbing fixtures can also become loose over time, which can create gaps where water can leak out.
– **Corrosion:** Corrosion can weaken plumbing pipes and fixtures, making them more susceptible to leaks.
– ** Freezing temperatures:** When water in plumbing pipes freezes, it can expand and cause the pipes to burst.
– ** Water hammer:** Water hammer is a sudden surge of pressure in plumbing pipes. This can be caused by a number of factors, including closing a faucet too quickly or turning on a hose too suddenly. Water hammer can damage plumbing pipes and fixtures, causing them to leak.