Water is a destructive force that can wreak havoc if it isn’t handled properly. Water damage can cause mold to grow, leaving a foul odor and a health hazard behind.
You may take water’s presence for granted, but it’s not something to ignore. It’s important to have a steady source of clean water at home and have enough storage to not have to worry about it running out.
Worrying about water damage doesn’t have to stop you from living your life. Use this guide to identify common signs of water damage in your home.
1. Mold Growth
Mold growth is one of the most common signs of water damage in the home. Mold spores need constant moisture and warm temperatures to survive, so if you notice mold growth on walls or ceilings, then it’s a good bet that there is a water issue somewhere.
Mold typically appears as black, green, or white and might appear in circles or patches or in thread-like strands. Areas around windows and doors and behind or under furniture may be especially prone to mold due to condensation.
If you notice any mold growth, it should be carefully removed, as unmaintained mold can cause serious health problems and damage to the home, so be sure to call this mold removal company.
The root of the issue must then be discovered in order to ensure that moisture is properly destroying the mold and preventing it from growing in the future.
2. Musty Smells
Musty smells can often be a sign of fixed water damage in the home. When there is an excess amount of moisture in the air, this moisture can seep into the nooks and crannies of a home, providing an ideal breeding ground for mold and mildew.
Unchecked, these can wreak havoc in the home and have a detrimental effect on air quality. If you suspect water damage, a musty smell is a sign that it is time to take action. Oftentimes, it could be coming from your walls, laundry pipes, bathrooms, and other places.
It’s important to inspect these areas for the presence of excess moisture and, if present, to take appropriate measures. A professional would be able to offer advice and guidance to help you in dealing with any problems as quickly as possible.
3. Peeling Paint and Wallpaper
Peeling paint and wallpaper can be a sign of water damage in your home. When excess moisture settles into the walls, it can cause the paint or wallpaper to peel away from the wall. The issue can arise in any room of the home and is typically most noticeable near windows, vents, or other places where moisture is likely to collect.
To properly assess if the issue is, in fact, a sign of water damage, look at the section of wallpaper or paint that is peeling. If the material appears dry and brittle, then water is likely not the cause, and the issue is instead due to the age of the wallpaper or paint.
If the material appears moist, there is likely moisture present, and the issue should be addressed immediately to prevent further damage.
4. Stains and Discoloration
Stains and discoloration are common signs of water damage in your home. You can usually see the momentary aftermath of water infiltration as stained walls, ceilings, carpets, furniture, clothing, and floors. Discolored areas may appear yellow, brown, or green.
These coloring areas might have a wavy, bubbly, or distorted look, an indication that there’s been an inundation of water. If water infiltration continues over time, plasterboard and wood may rot, weaken, or swell up, making them less durable. You’ll notice the excess moisture starts to rise to the surface of the wood, bringing up moist and discolored patches.
5. Warped Floors, Walls, and Ceilings
Signs of water damage in your home warrant a close inspection, especially when it comes to floored walls and ceilings. Warped floors, walls, and ceilings can all stem from water damage due to extended exposure.
These could be caused by a burst or leaking pipe, flooding, or even excessive moisture from a nearby bathroom or kitchen. Warped floors feel spongy underneath your feet, and wallpapers, such as the seams, may be sagging or lifting.
On the ceiling, water spots may appear when the water evaporates. Even if there are no visible water spots, a hard-to-the-touch texture may be present on the ceiling. Warped floor, wall, and ceiling damages are an indication that steps should be taken to mitigate the damage of any potential water damage in the home.
6. Soft or Spongy Walls
One of the most signs of water damage in your home is soft or spongy walls. This area could indicate that water is pooling behind the walls. If this is the case, then the wood and drywall of the wall have become saturated and swollen, making it soft to the touch.
If you find a soft or spongy wall, then further investigation is needed to find the cause. Common causes include a failing roof, a leaking pipe, or a broken appliance.
In extreme cases, these issues can lead to major damage, such as rotting wood and even foundation issues. Ignoring the sign of spongy walls can result in more serious problems, so ensuring that the source of the issue is addressed quickly is essential.
Learn More About Water Damage
Water damage is a serious issue and one that should not be taken lightly. It’s important to keep an eye out for signs of water damage in your home, such as discoloration, mold growth, and peeling wallpaper.
If you think your home may be suffering from water damage, contact a professional today to learn more about your options and what can be done.
Did you find this article helpful? Check out the rest of our blog for more!
