I'm in California and the Home Depot is busy! Home Depot only allows so many customers in the store at one time, so the line out the door seems daunting, but they move it along quickly and there are plenty of markings and signs regarding social distancing and other safety reminders.
I imagine that Californians is not the only state where homeowners are taking this time of sheltering in place to do some simple home improvements. We discussed water intrusion on the exterior of your home in another post, now lets discuss the interior.
Check for leaks with all your water lines (kitchen, bathroom, laundry room). Remember, toilets have water lines too, so make sure the area behind your toilets and along the baseboards are dry. Check the hoses in your laundry room that attach to your washing machine. You get a two for one because you can clean out under your sinks while you check for leaks.
If you find a leak, start by checking to make sure everything is tight. If anything is wet, open up the doors, remove everything under the sink and let it dry out completely. This might take a couple of day depending on the amount of wetness. If the area is soft once it is completely dry, you might need to replace the wood. The most important step is to stop the leak and dry out the area. Replacing the wood is secondary as long as it is dry, but definitely correct the issue as soon as you can to reduce the risk of further damage.
If you need to replace water connection lines and you cannot figure it out, call a plumber or a handyman who understands plumbing so you do not do any further damage to your home.
Also remember to check your smoke and carbon dioxide detectors 2 times a year. They really are life saving devices, but only when they are functioning. Be well, Be safe!
