But I Don't See Any Water: How to Spot Water Damage Warning Signs

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

flood inside Tallahassee home

But I Don't See Any Water: How to Spot Water Damage Warning Signs

Just because you don't see it doesn't mean it isn't there. Make sure you keep reading below to learn how to spot the warning signs of water damage.

Is your house suffering from water damage? Chances are you don't know, hence why you're reading this article.

We're going to take a look at some of the signs of water damage, even if you don't physically see water, so keep reading to see if you need to take action on some suspect areas in your home.

Smells

If you smell damp in a home, it's usually a pretty good indicator that there is at least some water accumulating somewhere it shouldn't be. The smell of damp and mold is very distinctive, and while it's difficult to describe, you know it when you smell it.

Sounds

While it's not realistic to spend your days with your ear against the wall of your house, you may catch the sound of trickling or dripping water. The first thing to check is your faucets, and if they're all shut, it may mean that there is water leaking from pipes behind the wall.

This can lead to water damage, so act quickly.

Issues With Walls

The walls are probably the biggest and most obvious indicator of wall damage. Take a look at both the paintwork and the condition of the wall itself.

Paintwork Issues

Any moisture behind walls can seep through to the paintwork, causing it to crack or bubble. Painting over this is not a sensible solution, and these signs should be taken as an incentive to do something about the issue.

Wall Swelling

A more severe case of water damage could cause the drywall to swell. This is caused by water saturating the drywall. Simply replacing it will not solve the problem and will end up becoming more and more expensive the longer you leave it.

The Wall Feels Damp

If you put your hand on the wall and it feels cold and/or damp, it could be a sign of water damage. A home with water damage might never quite feel dry and will take longer to heat.

Take the weather and climate into account—if it's cold outside, cold walls inside do not necessarily mean you have water damage!

Mold Growth

One of the most disheartening things to see around your home is mold. It can be expected to accumulate over time in kitchens and bathrooms, especially if those areas are neglected.

However, if you start to see mold along the bottom of the walls or in random places, it can be a sign of water damage. Mold can cause health effects, so it's best to treat the matter with a degree of urgency.

Catch Water Damage Early

It's important to keep an eye on your property, especially if it is older. Water damage can be devastating if left unresolved, and it's also not the best idea to try and remedy it yourself.

Get in touch with SERVPRO of Central Tallahassee if you have any concerns based on what you've read here, and check out some of the other articles across the site to find out more about what we offer.