Signs of Water Damage in Your Home

Water damage is a huge hazard and happens a lot more often than you might realize.  It can happen to a home, old or new, at any time and can result in many different problems, leaving the homeowner in a (literal) mess. Any sort of leak, a leaky pipe or roof, can cause serious structural damage and, if not properly handled and repaired, this damage can worsen over time.

Many property damages caused by water and leaks could have been avoided. According to the American Insurance Associate, over 90% of these issues could have been avoided had proper care and maintenance been given to small known problems. Here’s the problem: many people believe that they can fix water damage or a leaky roof or pipe on their own.  his can certainly be true for small problems and damage. But what damage you can see is typically just the tip of the iceberg. Most damage is present deep in the walls of your house and leads to serious problems like structural issues that only a professional should diagnose and repair before the integrity of your home is seriously compromised.

Not only is your home susceptible to structural damage, but mold can quickly begin growing if there has been water damage. Health problems, both big and small, can be caused by some types of mold.  So it’s best to not delay remediation and get the problem fixed before it gets too serious. Delaying repairs could end up costing a lot more money and could be hazardous health-wise.

However, the trouble with spotting signs of water damage can be tricky as it is not always apparent.  Some cases are obvious but other times, it can be more gradual, subtle, and hidden.

Here are just a few things to be on the lookout for signs of water damage:

1. Dark or Wet Spots

Keep your eye out for discoloration on the ceiling and the interior and exterior walls of your home. These watermarks are usually quite telling.

2. Cracking, Bubbling, or Flaking

Water damage could be present if the drywall or paint on your ceiling or walls is beginning to crack, bubble, or flake.

3. Pooling Water or Puddles

Leaks or ongoing drips can lead to pools of water. If a puddle comes back once you’ve cleaned it up that could mean you have a leak.

4. Sounds of Running Water

Sometimes you won’t be able to see water damage, but you might be able to hear it.  If you hear a dripping sound, a creaking floor, or even rushing or running water. Though, these sounds can also indicate a perfectly functioning system. So listen for changes in sound.

5. Increase in Utility Bills

Have you noticed your water bill suddenly spiked? This could be a sign of a hidden leak.

6. Damp, Musty, or Moldy Smell

Damp, musty, or moldy smells can be a big indicator of water damage. Dampness has such a distinct smell, it’s hard to miss. This smell is often accompanied by the smell of mold and, unfortunately, water damage.

If you suspect that there has been water damage in your home, it is best to call a professional right away!