Water damage is one of the most hazardous issues in your home and can happen to anyone, regardless of how old or new your home is. Once the water has gotten into your house, particularly if mold begins to grow, severe structural damage can occur, not to mention the health risks of being around so much mold! So whether you’re buying a home or want to be prepared, it’s essential to know how to spot water damage to be proactive in preventing any serious consequences.
Here are some of the most common signs of water damage:
- Dark Spots. Take a good look at the ceiling and walls of your home for any discoloration—particularly any dark or wet-looking spots. They will be yellow to brown and appear in rings, as if water is seeping.
- While looking at the drywall on your walls and ceiling, check for any bubbling, cracking, or chipping. In bad cases, the wall may even look swollen. It is another sign that water was, or may still be, in your wall. In addition to the drywall, look for any bubbling in the paint.
- Musty Smells. One of the most significant signs of water damage is a musty or moldy smell throughout the home or in specific areas. Water damage has a distinct musty smell that’s hard to miss and ignore, so you won’t need to “look” for it. The smell is indicative of excess humidity and mold.
- How does the air feel throughout your home? If it feels humid and not completely dry, it’s a sign you have water damage. You can also physically start feeling and touching your walls—your drywall may even feel damp!
- Though it may sound obvious, listen for any changes in sounds throughout the home. Is what was once a quiet and serene space now sonically filled with running or dripping water? If the sound is new, you may have time to stop the leak before severe water damage occurs. You may also hear flushing or running water; however, since these sounds can sometimes be a part of functioning systems, it’s better to look for “new” sounds you’ve never noticed before.
- Utility Bills. Look at your utility bills if you can’t see, hear, feel, or smell anything different. If your water bill has inexplicably gone up, you may have a hidden leak you don’t know about.
RestoRite Water Restoration specializes in handling your water damage-related emergencies. We offer 24-hour emergency water extraction services trusted by thousands of homeowners. Our professionals work directly with you and your insurance company to return your home to a safe and dry environment as quickly as possible! Visit our website to learn more, or call (910) 957-6690 to get started today!
Sources:
https://callrestorite.com/services/
https://www.servpro.com/resources/water-damage/what-does-water-damage-look-like
https://www.bobvila.com/articles/signs-of-water-damage-in-walls/
https://hudsondouglaspublicadjusters.com/signs-of-water-damage-in-your-home/