Where to Look For Water Damage

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can come from many different places. Use this list to check your home for unforeseen moisture.

Water damage can come from many different places and is not just a problem for people living near bodies of water. While flood damage is pretty apparent, there are many ways water damage can happen to your home when you don’t even realize it.

Here are some common causes of water damage and how you can spot the warning signs.

Weather

Weather is a common cause of water damage. Rain, snow and ice cause flooding that can get into your home. Ice is an especially insidious cause of water damage because it expands as it freezes, causing cracks that allow more water to enter your home. Even if it isn’t raining or snowing there is still moisture in the air. Damp air can lead to condensation and water damage to your walls. This is especially true of basements, bathrooms, and other damp areas of your home that have stagnant airflow.

Appliances and Plumbing

Appliances like your washing machine, garbage disposal, water heater, toilet, and air conditioner can all contribute to water damage if they leak or stop draining properly.

Water from our pipes and plumbing systems can also cause water damage. Leaks and drips can go on for months, or even years, raising your water bill and leaving hidden damage in your home.

If these are all the ways water can sneak into your home, what are the signs of water damage?

Here are a few warning signs that you have a water damage problem in your home.

Standing water – Obviously, standing water is alarming and will most likely get your attention quickly, unless it’s in a low-traffic part of your home (like a basement or attic). If you notice standing water, it is very important to take immediate action to limit the damage.

Bad smells – While water doesn’t normally have much of a smell, the mold and bacteria that grow in damp environments can give off a distinct musty, wet odor. If you smell mold or mildew you might have a water issue.

Stains and spots – Stains on the ceilings or walls can be a sign of water damage. You might have a leaky pipe or roof. Call a professional to determine the cause of the problem and to clean up the damage before it becomes a serious mold problem.

Peeling paint – Paint damaged by water will start to peel, bubble, or flake off.

Uneven surfaces – Water damage can cause floors, ceilings, walls, and other surfaces to warp and feel uneven.

Cracks – Water can enter through cracks in your home. Once water finds its way in, the crack will expand allowing even more to get into your home. Make sure you seal all visible cracks on your property to prevent this issue.

If you find that you have hidden moisture in your home, call SERVPRO at 479-419-5544. SERVPRO is a 24/7 Emergency Service for Water, Fire, Mold and Smoke mitigation and remediation.

SERVPRO of Fayetteville/Springdale should be your first choice for any residential or commercial restoration needs. Our team of professionals is trained to assess the damage and potential threats, extract and contain the affected area, dry, and restore your property to preloss condition. 

SERVPRO of Fayetteville/Springdale is available 24/7 by calling 479-318-6774.

For more about SERVPRO of Fayetteville/Springdale, click here.