Is the water damage on your property old or new?  Both commercial and residential properties at some point in time fall prey to water damage. The causes of water damage are endless. It can be from a leaky roof, broken faucet or pipe, flood, sewer backup, etc. No matter what caused the water damage, if not properly treated, it can result in mold growth. The ease of eliminating water damage depends upon how long it has been there. Here are some easy ways to find out whether water damage is old or new. Take a Closer Look at the Damaged Materials Different materials react differently when they come into contact with water. Tiles and bricks are durable materials, if they show signs of water damage, it means that the water damage has been there for a while. It takes a long time for these materials to show signs of water penetration. On the other hand, if you notice the signs of water damage in wooden flooring or drywall, chances are that the water damage is relatively new. Even the slightest amount of water can affect these materials. Check for Rings or Stains If exposed to water for an extended amount of time, drywall, wooden flooring, and other porous materials can develop unsightly rings or stains. These materials are absorbent and soak up water. Even if the water dries out, the stains can remain. If you notice varying rings and stains in the same place, the water damage can be recurring. Touch and Feel the Spot  Areas with relatively newer water damage are usually more wet than soft. In case the material is soft, it is a sign that water has taken its time to saturate the materials completely. However, sturdy materials like tiles and bricks never soften, no matter how old the damage is. Check for Mold The first 48 hours after water damage are the most crucial. If you witness mold along with water, it is a sign that water has been present for more than 48 hours. The magnitude of mold damage can tell you about the age of the water damage. Interestingly, the absence of mold doesn’t mean that the water damage is new. The lack of mold may have something to do with environmental factors. Those factors are humidity, dampness, temperature, and lack of air flow or ventilation. If any of those factors aren’t present, molds ability to grow may be hindered. Most of the time, people aren’t sure about the reasons behind water damage or mold growth and are unable to estimate the approximate age of the water damage. If you find signs of water damage, whether new or old, it’s best to call trained professionals like Service Team of Professionals Tri-Cities (STOP Restoration) to assess the damage. Please visit our website for more information about the services we offer.