Water damage can occur from several sources, both big and small. Burst water pipes, flash flooding, and hurricanes are all common causes of water damage that most people are aware of. However, one of the most common causes of water damage is hidden water leaks. Over time, these little drips of water can cause serious structural problems in your home. If you’re not vigilant about looking for water damage signs, you could quickly find yourself facing expensive water damage restoration costs. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the most common water damage signs that you need to look out for in your home!
Contents
Signs of Minor Water Damage
- Water stains on walls or ceiling
- Peeling paint or wallpaper
- Warped floors
- Chipping tiles
Water Stains on Walls or Ceiling
One of the most common water damage signs is water stains on your walls or ceiling. Water stains look like small, dark patches on your walls or ceiling and are often a sign of a water leak. If you see water stains in your home, it’s important to investigate the source of the water leak and have it repaired as soon as possible.
Peeling Paint or Wallpaper
If you notice paint or wallpaper that is peeling away from your walls, it’s likely a sign of water damage. Water can cause paint and wallpaper to peel away from walls as it seeps behind them and causes the adhesive to break down.
Warped floors
If you have hardwood floors, water damage can cause them to warp and cup. Warped floors are a more serious water damage sign and can be expensive to repair. Even linoleum or tile floors can be water damaged, as water can cause the tiles to crack or come loose.
Chipping Tiles
Another water damage sign to look out for is chipping tiles. Water can cause tiles to chip and break, especially if they are already loose.
Signs of Major Water Damage
- Sagging ceilings
- Cracks in walls or foundation
- Musty odors
- Flooding
Sagging Ceilings
One of the most serious water damage signs is a sagging ceiling. This is a sign of a water leak: water has seeped into your walls and is causing the ceiling to sag. If water has already built up in the ceiling, it could be at risk of collapsing, so this is a water damage sign that you should not ignore.
Cracks in Walls or Foundation
Water can cause cracks in the walls or foundation of your home as it seeps in and weakens it. These cracks can allow water to enter your home, which can lead to further water damage.
Musty Odors
If you notice a musty smell in your home, it’s likely a sign of water damage. Water leaks can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow. Not only is mold unsightly, but it can also cause health problems.
Related Reading: 4 Ways Mold Can Impact Your Health
Flooding
Flooding occurs when water enters your home from the outside. Flooding is usually caused by extreme weather, such as heavy rains or a hurricane. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, it’s important to have flood insurance.
If you see any of these water damage signs in your home, it’s important to take action immediately. The longer water damage is left unaddressed, the greater the chance for mold growth. And once mold takes hold, it can be very difficult and expensive to remove. If you think you may have water damage, the first step is to call a water damage restoration company. They will be able to assess the extent of the water damage and recommend the best course of action.
Related Reading: More than a Spill: 4 Important Steps to Take After Severe Water Damage
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