5 Signs of Water Damage in Your Home; Warning Signs You Can’t Ignore
There are many sources for water damage in your home- a leaky toilet, a pin hole in bathroom pipes, burst refrigerator water line, leaky roof, dishwasher overflowing and many more. Water damage is a hazard that happens more often than you might realize. When you notice one of these 5 warning signs, time is of the essence. It can begin in a matter of seconds and become severe in just a few minutes. If there is a puddle of water and it is manageable, cleaning up the visible water should be done as soon as possible to minimize the severity of damage.
The trouble with spotting signs of water damage can be tricky as it is not always apparent. Some homeowners have difficulty finding the source of the water damage. Some cases are obvious but other times, it can be more gradual, subtle, and hidden. When the damage is deep within the walls of your home, it can lead to serious problems like structural issues. Only a professional should diagnose and repair before the integrity of your home is seriously compromised. Abednego Restorations has the team qualified to inspect and repair.
Here are 5 signs to be on the lookout for signs of water damage:
Water Stains- The most obvious sign of water damage. Hey, what’s that spot?
Water stains are a major sign of water damage in walls or ceilings. Stains that appear without any apparent reason are most likely an undetected water leak in your roof or walls. New water damage will be a dark water spot and the surface will feel firm while old water damage will have dry water rings and the surface will feel squishy. Older homes without any plumbing updates are more susceptible to breakage and damage. Knowing the history of your home, for instance, how old the shingles are on your roof or the date of any plumbing updates, can help you catch leaks before they become a disaster.
2. Mold/Mildew (musty smell)- There’s a smell in here!
Trust your sense of smell. If there is a musty smell, chances are it’s either mildew or mold. If black spots are visible on your walls, most likely there was water damage. Leaky water behind walls will create a musty smell. Areas with excess of water and moisture are vulnerable to mold growth. The musty odor will grow stronger as the mold grows and spreads. If there is a potential mold issue it will require mediation from a professional.
3. Strange Noises/Dripping- Do you hear that?
Sometimes you might not be able to see the running water but you might be able to hear it. A trickle, a rush of water or a slight drip drip could possibly be heard if you listen closely at a time when your house is at one of its quietest times.
4. Increase in Utility Bills- $$ Cha Cha Ching! Yikes!
Although most water bills can vary from month to month, if all of a sudden there is an increase in the amount of water used, it could indicate a possible hidden leak. If you can’t think of a cause for the increase, start checking around your house, inside and outside. Look around your major appliances for leaks and start checking walls for stains.
5. Health Issues- Ah-choo!
Wheezy? Sneezy? Coughing? All could be signs of unhealthy air quality. Depending on the severity of water damage, the air can become unhealthy as the air could contain mold spores that trigger allergies, asthma problems, and other health issues. If you suspect mold in your home, call Abednego Restorations. We’ll come out, inspect and if needed, have an air quality test performed. If mold is found, our trained professionals will place containment and mediate the mold.
Next Steps to Take After Finding the Source of the Problem
Once you find the water damage, depending on the cause of the leak and the amount of damage, you may need to shut off your water and clean and dry the wet areas. If you find the job is too big of a DIY project, give us a call. Our team of professionals is ready to mitigate and repair your water damage. Let Us Help You.
