Sometimes paying attention to small signs are a clue to bigger issues. Before a big home repair surprises you, here are three signs of water damage you should never ignore! Homeowners, this is critical for your home’s structure and wellness.
Have you seen these signs of water damage?
- Mold or Mildew that keeps returning or never leaves
- Bubbling or peeling paint on walls, ceilings, or trim
- Foul or musty odors
If so, you may have water damage hiding beneath the surface. Let’s earn more about these three common signs.
Mold or Mildew
Mold or Mildew will grow under high-humidity conditions. This persistent humidity is a major red flag to the presence of water. Whether from a slowly leaking drain, pinholes in pressurized water lines, dried or weathered seals, or exterior water incursions…somehow water is entering your home and not leaving. Over time, these signs of water damage will encourage the growth of mold.
Why is mold growth a concern? According to the EPA:
Molds are usually not a problem indoors, unless mold spores land on a wet or damp spot and begin growing. Molds have the potential to cause health problems. Molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions) and irritants. Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Allergic responses include hay fever-type symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash.
Additionally, the growth of mold may cause additional structural damage to your property as the mold growth spreads and encourages the decay of wood structures. Overall, the presence of mold is one of the signs of water damage that should encourage you to act quickly!
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Signs of Water Damage: Bubbling or Peeling Paint
If water begins to collect behind your wall or in your drywall, bubbling or peeling may be seen on the paint’s surface. Thankfully, seeing this type of water damage is a clear sign that there is intrusive water present! However, the mystery still remains: how much water damage is present behind the scenes?
In many cases, the extent of visible disturbance will be correlated to the extent of intrusive water present. Meaning, big bubbles and extensive peeling = extensive water present, and small bubbles and small surface areas showing signs of water damage = less water present. However, once water enters, it is unlikely to stop entering unless the point of entry or leak has been repaired. Left untreated, a small area of water damage may eventually grow into extensive water damage, requiring more invasive (and expensive) repair.
To protect your home and prevent a larger loss, call a professional water restoration company whenever you see any bubbling or peeling paint, regardless of the surface area affected.
Signs of Water Damage: Foul or Musty Odors
Oftentimes, our nose may perceive signs of water damage before our eyes. If an area begins to smell differently, like unattended laundry that has turned sour, you may be smelling the presence of mildew or decay.
If you can smell water damage, inspect the area to eliminate any major damage or emergency situations. Check all walls for signs of moisture, wetness, unexpected coolness, texture changes, or discoloration. Inspect any trim, windows, or woodwork for swelling or bulging of materials, discoloration, or rust from hardware. Check ceilings, ceiling tiles, and light fixtures for discoloration, signs of moisture, or changes in texture.
If you have carpeted floors, check carefully for any signs of moisture, discoloration, or newly uneven surfaces. Water may have been absorbed into the padding underneath the carpet or the subfloor.
If you are unable to locate the source of the smell and it persists, contact a professional and trusted water damage restoration specialist for an in-home consultation.
If you see the signs, call a specialist.
Signs of water damage do not appear without a reason. If you see the signs, contact a specialist as soon as possible. A quick response may help mitigate further damage to your home. Advanced Restoration & Company offers free, non-invasive evaluations. If we can help, please contact us now.
