8 Warning Signs of Water Damage in Your Home
Water damage. Not a term most homeowners like to hear when referencing their property, but it’s also a more common occurrence than one might think. Water damage refers to the state of a building or structure after the water has ravaged it and caused injury or structural issues to it. Causes can vary and include but are not limited to flooding, leakage, and condensation.
While frequency of natural disasters such as hurricanes or earthquakes will obviously increase chances, most cases of water damage can also be from human error and negligence, such as improperly installed plumbing or faulty electrical wiring.
Water damage is a big issue in homes and offices. It can cause severe health and safety problems and is also expensive to fix. It can cause severe damage to your home and belongings and if you have water damage - whether big or small, knowing how to handle it properly is crucial.
With that said, here are some of the most common warning signs that will let you know if your home has water damage in some way or form that you need to fix.
1. Water stains
You can easily see signs of water damage in the form of water stains on your home. You can avoid these stains by taking care of the items around your water source and ensuring that you are not leaking or dripping any water.
Water stains are a sign of potential damage to your home, so it is vital to take care of them. It would be best to inspect your home regularly for possible leaks and dripping sources.
Water stains are brown or reddish-brown spots on walls and furniture where the moisture from water has seeped into the porous surface of the wall or furniture material. These stains are often near windows, doors, or other areas where moisture may enter your home.
2. Mold formation
Mold formation is a sign that your house has water damage. When you notice these mold formations, it is best to call a professional to come and assess the damage.
You can find mold anywhere in the house, but it is more likely to grow in moist areas. These wet areas include basements and bathrooms.
Mold spores are everywhere, and they can grow in anything damp. They can cause a wide range of health problems that range from mild to severe.
The presence of mold in your home should be a concern for everyone, not just those who suffer from allergies or asthma. The effects of mold in your home can also impact the rest of the family.
The presence of mold in your home should be a cause for concern if you’re experiencing these symptoms:
respiratory illness
skin irritation
eye irritation
headaches or migraines
nausea or vomiting
That’s why if you spot them, it’s a good idea to get a professional’s help as soon as possible.
3. Sagging walls and ceilings
According to a water damage restoration Del Mar company, a bad sign that your home has significant water damage is if you’re starting to see sagging everywhere. It could be your walls or even your ceilings.
When walls or ceilings sag, they are a sign that they have water damage. The sagging is typical because of leaks in the roof or plumbing system and can lead to mold growth and structural damage.
It is essential to fix these damages quickly before more serious issues arise.
4. Strange noises/dripping
Water damage can cause strange noises and dripping sounds in your home. Knowing the signs of water damage is essential to avoid costly repairs. If you hear these noises, it is crucial to understand what the cause might be before you make any assumptions.
Strange noises and dripping sounds can signal several things that could lead to water damage. It could result from a pipe rupture, frozen pipes, or even an appliance issue like a washing machine or dishwasher.
If you hear these noises in your home, getting someone out to check the issue as soon as possible is crucial.
5. Damp, musty, or moldy smell
Damp, musty, and moldy smells in your home can indicate water damage. You should contact a professional to inspect your home if you notice these smells.
If you are experiencing these smells yourself, there are some things that you can do to minimize the effects and prevent further damage.
The damp smell will intensify when you open doors or windows to breathe fresh air. The musty smell is a sign of moisture in the air.
6. Damaged flooring
Water damage can be challenging to detect because it usually comes from minor leaks. However, you can use telltale signs to determine if your home has been affected by water damage.
Damaged flooring is one of a house’s most common signs of water damage. The water damages your floors by seeping through the walls, ceilings, and floorboards.
7. Damage to the roof
A damaged roof is often the first sign of water damage in the home. If you notice any signs of water damage in your home, contact a professional immediately and take care of the problem before it becomes too expensive or dangerous for your family’s health and safety.
Water damage is a severe problem that can happen to your roof, causing serious damage. If your roof has water damage, it is best to contact a professional to assess the situation and take care of the issue.
8. Peeling wall paint
If your walls are peeling, it is a sign of water damage in your home. This damage can be a severe problem, especially if you have children or pets in the house.
Peeling paint is an indication of water damage to the walls. Water damage can be from a leaky roof, plumbing problems, or rainwater entering your home through the windows.
If you see peeling paint in your home, it is critical to assess whether there is any water damage inside before you take further steps to fix it. It can also indicate other types of injuries like mold or rotting wood.
These warning signs indicate not only water damage but also that it’s gotten bad enough to the point of affecting your home. Therefore, you should get professional help to not only help you deal with the source of the water damage but also help restore your home before the water damage has ravaged it.
