In any property, water damage can either be a nuisance or a safety concern. It is a huge hazard and occurs more frequently than you think. When neglected and not properly handled, damage from water can result in a significant mess. Structural damage can be costly over time. To help you avoid these destructions, we prepared a list of possible signs of water damage that you should look out for.
Signs of Water Damage at Home
1. Water Stains
Keep an eye out for dark or discolored areas around the house’s ceilings, floors, and walls because these indicate evidence of water damage coming from an unknown source. There is also the possibility of staining because of water breakouts from fire damage. In this situation, you can get assistance from a company that offers fire damage cleanup Odenton.
2. Strange Dripping Sounds
The sound of dripping water is a usual scenario in a house with potential water damage. However, this may also be perceived as the noise coming from a water leaking source. Listen closely to each drop; it could indicate water damage with a fast and continuous release.
3. Moisture Buildup
Experiencing unexpected dampness around the house might be a sign of undetected water leaks. When this happens, check out those wet surfaces. If it comes from a spot where water does not usually accumulate, then the presence of leaks in that area is high. To assist you in eliminating the risk of water damage from leaks, you can reach out to companies like PuroClean of Odenton. They have professionals who are trained to address these issues.
4. Mold Formation
Mold is one of the most typical signs of water damage. It develops whenever there is an excessive amount of moisture trapped in neglected areas. Typically, it has an epicenter that signifies the origin of the damage. This can cause severe problems and might need the help of a professional.
5. Musty Odors
The growth of mold and mildew can cause pungent and unpleasant odors around the house. Still, sometimes, places with visible mold formation may not have a strong, musty smell. It would be better to look out for these areas with or without odor because this indicates possible water leaks.
6. Wood and Paint Damage
Evident changes in wood and paint surfaces indicate signs of water damage. Water saturates the materials used for the ceiling and walls, thus, decreasing its durability and longevity. Distorted floorboards and peeling paint might be an indication of excess moisture from leaks.
7. Rusty Metals
Most people know that rust on metal is a common outcome of water damage. A way to assess possible water leaks is to look out for areas with metal in the house’s structure. If it is tarnished, then it can be noted that there is an existing water problem.
8. Increased Utility Bill
It is almost impossible to detect the cause of water leakage, especially in big houses with multiple floors. One way to determine this problem is to look into the amount indicated on the monthly utility bill. A sudden increase in the total you must pay can reflect the amount of water coming from leakages.
9. Abrupt Health Issues
A sudden outbreak of respiratory health complications may be indicative of a water-induced house problem. The primary effect of water leakage is the formation of mold and mildew. In turn, the consequence of such development is a significant deterioration in one’s health. Mold exposure can lead to numerous health issues, including asthma, respiratory infections, and severe allergic reactions.
Negligence can contribute to worsening water damage in any situation. The occurrence of water leaks can lead to property deterioration and destruction. The signs mentioned above can be prevented and resolved if correctly and immediately addressed. So, whenever you see these signs, make sure to take necessary actions in a timely manner. It is always good to remember that proactive steps are better than complete property restoration.