How to Tell if Your Home Has Water Damage

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

It’s a quiet night, and you’re settling in to relax with some much-deserved ice cream, when you hear it: an unfamiliar drip. It’s not the kitchen sink; you can see that from your couch. The bathroom seems fine, too.

You follow the steady dripping sound on tiptoes only to finally discover it’s…inside your wall? Hmm, that doesn’t seem right.

Sounds odd, but it happens. And it’s just one of many signposts that you may have a water issue somewhere in your home that needs attention.

Around 14,000 Americans a day face a water damage emergency. It’s one of the most likely and, if unchecked, most expensive home repairs you may face.

So how can you know what to look for to nip a water situation in the bud? Here are some of the most common giveaways that there’s something going on:

Wet or dark spots in the ceiling. If you’re in a single-level home, or on the top story of a multi-level home, this is a sure sign of a roof leak or gutter backup. If you’re on a lower level, the first thing to consider is whether a bathroom above you might be leaking.

Unusual or musty smells. If an area of your house suddenly smells like a pile of wet towels left in a hot car, there’s probably some excess moisture gathering somewhere and potentially mold or mildew as well.

Flaky or bubbly paint. Even waterproof paint can only hold back the problem for so long—if paint is cracking, flaking or bubbling, you’re almost certain to have some water coming in or down the walls.

Dripping sounds. If there’s a drip but no sink, a flow but no faucet, you’ve got trouble. Follow the sound and figure out how the water’s getting in.

Increased utility bills. It could just be because your kids are home from college, but If your water bill is suddenly much higher and there’s no obvious reason, it could indicate a leak in a less-than-obvious location. Check basements, crawlspaces and water heaters first.

Water leaks in the US alone waste an astonishing amount, up to a trillion—yes, a trillion—gallons of water per year. You’re highly likely to experience a water emergency at some point, but dealing with it early can be the difference in having a minor issue or a major repair.

If you notice any of these signs in your home, let us take a look. Our expert water restoration technicians can help you determine what is causing these issues and how to treat it properly. Contact us today to learn more.