The first step to fixing water damage is identifying the source of the water.
As a homeowner, you need to be able to identify all the signs of water damage. You can only protect your home and take prompt action when you know what you are dealing with.
The thing with water damage is that it doesn’t happen overnight. It builds up slowly and gradually until one day it gets worse and starts causing destruction. Even when water leaks out of a faucet one drop at a time, it may end up causing severe structural damage or hazardous mold growth.
Thus, you must keep checking for water damage signs. The earlier you detect the problem, the more efficiently you can fix it. The following are some of the most common yet subtle signs of water damage.
- Structural Changes in Flooring, Ceilings, or Walls
One of the most common signs of water damage around the house is structural changes. This may include gaps in the flooring, peeling or bubbling paint on walls or cracks in the ceiling. Since most water leaks occur in pipes that are located underground, cracks or gaps in the flooring is a major concern.
These structural changes must not be ignored as they could result in major damage. Even though there are several other factors that affect these structural changes, such as temperature changes, you must be aware of why it is happening. If you are unable to detect the source of the problem yourself, you must call a professional water restoration service that could inspect if there are any leaks.
- Unexplained Wetness or Moisture
Another basic sign of water leaks is wetness or moisture. Early signs of water damage often cause moist walls, floors, or ceilings. If you can’t locate the source of the moisture or explain the wetness, you must call a professional restoration service to detect the problem. Unexplained wet floors, soggy walls, and spongy carpets are signs of water damage and must be taken seriously.
- Visible Stains
Any sort of water leakage or dampness may cause stains on your floor, wall, carpets, or furniture. This is another common sign of potential water damage. The stain may be yellowish brown or off-whitish in color. The most common laces where such stains are found are in the basement, room corners, or ceilings. You must also check for such stains in hidden areas such as under the sink or behind the toilet.
- Mold Growth or Bad Stench
Mold grows in moist and damp environments around the house. If you notice mold growth or a bad stench, it may be a sign of leaking water. Most of the times mold grows in hidden places such as behind cabinets or under carpets, hence remember to keep a check on such areas.
- High Water Bills
Another sign of water leakage is a high water bill. If you can’t explain your high water bill, you must call your plumber and check for leaks.
STOP Restoration services offer the best water damage repairs. Visit our website to learn more.
