How to find water damage 101
Water damage can occur from simple to find messes such as a overflowing sink or incredibly hard to spots such as a bursted pipe. Harder to spot water leaks can lead to massive damage that can cause roofs, walls, and in extreme cases even foundations to need replacement.
This will add up quick in damages and thousand of dollars in repairs. Here’s some signs to help find hidden water damage to see if you need to call a professional!
Is there a leak?
Stains and Discoloration: We’ve all seen water-stained ceilings and drywall. While it may be tempting to paint over the discoloration, this sign of water damage should not be ignored. Stains and discoloration could indicate a leaky roof or leaking pipes behind drywall. If you find discolorations or stains, you should try to find the source of the moisture and call a professional to help.
Peeling Paint and Wallpaper: Peeling paint and wallpaper is another indicator of hidden water damage or leaks. Water causes paint and wallpaper to lose their adhesion to drywall and sheetrock. The result is not only unsightly but can lead to further damages that can be hard to repair.
Warped Floors, Walls, and Ceilings: Water causes wood, drywall, and other hard surfaces to buckle and warp. When these materials absorb water, their structural integrity is compromised and can become hazards. If you see walls start to warp or your floors start to creak, this could be a sign of water damage
.
Water Damage Under the Sink: Water from a leaking kitchen or bathroom sink can be hard to miss. Not many homeowners inspect their plumbing fixtures regularly. While some moisture under the sink is expected, a continual drip or leak can be problematic.
Mold Growth: Visible mold is absolutely a sign of a water issue. When the moisture level in a home is high, this will cause mold to grow. Mold will often start in the seams of ceilings and floors. For mild mold growth, you can remove the mold using different methods. For large mold outbreaks, a professional mold remediation company can find the source of the mold issue, remove it, and help prevent future mold issues.
Musty Smells: A musty odor smell is a key sign of water damage. Musty smells are generally caused by dampness and mold. Musty smells can occur even without visible mold growth. The combination of moisture, lack of air circulation, and darkness all contribute to a moldy smell or musty odor. Covering up the odor will not fix the problem. If you experience unpleasant odors in a home, it’s important to find the source of the built-up moisture before it causes further damage.
Sudden Jump in Utility Bills: Some jumps in utility bills are normal, especially during the first cold spell of the season or when spring gardens are planted. Other jumps in water bills may indicate hidden leaks. Pay close attention to your monthly water bill to find trends in usage. An unexpected spike in water use may be an indicator of a potential problem.
Did you find some damage?
Take action immediately! Discoloration or a warp might not seem like an issue, but more times than naught it will lead to larger damages that cost thousands more than a quick seal-up. Your personal safety is also in danger because mold and mildew can form that is incredibly harmful to a person’s health!
There are plenty of ways to repair plumbing, patch, and remove mold that can be learned from the internet. If you aren’t a DUY type then definitely reach out to a professional restoration company to quickly fix the hidden leak. Then contact Huge Handyman Home Service or a company like ours in your area to come in and fix all the water damage!