ERSI has seen firsthand just how serious water damage can be when left untreated. A leak or rupture beneath walls and under floors has dangerous consequences. Moisture makes your home vulnerable to mold growth and potential structural issues when not properly remediated. And, the longer you wait, the greater the chances are of water damage spreading. That’s why we are bringing you a few tips for spotting water damage before it becomes a massive problem.
Sources of Water Damage
It is the responsibility of every property owner to know the signs and symptoms of water damage. But first, it’s important to be aware of the potential sources of these issues. After all, if you find water damage and have it restored, but neglect to fix the source of the problem, you open yourself to the possibility of much heftier repair bills in the future.
As you take stock of your home or business, note that some appliances, pipes, toilets, bathtubs, and roofs can cause water damage woes. If you do find water damage, these spots should be some of the first places you look to stop the leak.
5 Telltale Signs of Water Damage
Depending on the severity and circumstances surrounding your water damage issues, the evidence may vary. However, there are several tell-tale signs that you’re battling water damage. If you spot any of the following, chances are high that you’ll soon need water damage restoration services from a trusted pro like ERSI.
1. Stained rafters, walls, and ceilings
If you notice discoloration or stains on your rafters, walls, or ceilings, this is clear proof of a leak and hidden water damage. Stains may range in color from yellow to brown, and in size depending on the severity of the moisture issue. Although it may simply be a stain now, you should know that these can turn into severe structural issues if the leak is not stopped and the hidden water damage is not restored.
2. Odor
Not all signs of water damage are visible. Have you noticed a stale, musty, or stagnant odor in your home recently? When water absorbs into the building materials, mold may begin to form. Odors are a giveaway that your water damage has begun sprouting mold. If you notice that the smell is stronger in one area of your home, check here first for the source of the leak.
3. Drooping walls, ceilings, and floors
When water becomes logged in the walls, ceilings, and floors, these areas get saturated. They expand and their integrity is compromised. This dangerous combination could have scary consequences if any of them were to collapse. When you notice drooping or water bubbles, it’s time to give ERSI a call.
4. Visible Mold
Where there is mold, there is moisture. If you find mold growing on walls, baseboards, ceilings, or other areas of your house, you’ve likely found the source of your water leak. It is prudent to employ a trusted mold removal and mold remediation service to eliminate this health hazard immediately. If left untreated, mold causes respiratory distress, allergies, and irritation.
5. Peeling paint or wallpaper
Wondering why your paint job has lost its luster? If your wallpaper or paint is peeling, flaking, or bubbling up, this is a definite sign of water damage. This means that the source of the leak or burst has saturated the sheetrock and has now penetrated your wall coating. On wallpapered areas, check seams for separation to identify water damage.
How to Check Your Property for Hidden Water Damage
Did you find signs of water damage but aren’t sure if there is actually a leak or not? Now that you know the sources of hidden water damage and what signs to look for, let’s discuss how to do a thorough check of your dwelling to confirm water damage.
Shut off all water faucets and water-using appliances
Record the usage number on your water meter
Keep all water sources turned off for 3 or more hours
Check the water meter again and record the number
If your water usage goes up during your test, you’ll know that there is a leak somewhere in the house. While visible signs are great indicators of hidden water damage, you’ll want to do a thorough walkthrough.
Check floor joists beneath the property for mold. Similarly, monitor areas like closets and cabinets for stains along the floor if you live in a location that experiences flooding. For wood areas of the home’s structure, consider investing in a moisture meter to check the amount of moisture in the wood. Alternatively, a hygrometer will read the air’s moisture content. If you find wet walls or ceilings, call ERSI immediately.
ERSI’s Role
ERSI knows that finding water damage is stressful. Let us ease the burden with our expert water restoration services. Not only will we help identify the source of the leak, but we’ll also fix the damage to make it better than before. ERSI has the knowledge, experience, and equipment to get the job done right the first time.
