Recognize the signs of hidden water damage

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The SERVPRO blog shares the common signs of hidden water damage to help homeowners recognize them and take timely action.

Recognize the signs of hidden water damage

Visible water damage enables immediate action and restoration. But a hidden water leak in a basement, slow leaks in roofs, and a dripping faucet slowly damage a property. This hidden water damage is a huge concern as homeowners fail to realize there is a problem until the damage is extensive. SERVPRO shares how homeowners and business owners can identify the signs of hidden water damage. This knowledge can help prevent massive damages and restoration costs. 

1. Mold Growth

Mold grows swiftly when there is water damage in a building for over 48 hours. Mold spores often grow in the seams of ceilings and floors, hidden from view. Before taking on any DIY mold remediation project, it is strongly advised to consult a Texas-licensed Mold Remediation Contractor. Reviewing the Texas Mold Assessment and Remediation Rules (TMARR) is highly useful when looking for a mold remediation company, and understanding what the process entails.

Any green, black, white, or brown spots must be taken seriously. These are signs of mold growth that should be addressed by a professional mold remediation company like SERVPRO before it leads to any health effects. Not only will a professional team have the equipment to detect and remove mold hidden in crooks and crevices, but it will also ensure that there are no recurrences of mold growth by addressing the root cause.  

2. Musty Odors

If property owners can detect a musty odor, it is a certain sign of hidden water damage. Musty smells are a result of moisture, lack of air circulation, and darkness. This odor can exist even in the absence of visible mold growth. Masking an unpleasant odor in a home is not the solution. It is important to identify the source of the smell and ensure that the hidden moisture is removed at the earliest to prevent any further water damage.

3. Peeling Paint and Wallpaper

Peeling paint and wallpaper should be a red flag for homeowners. It is a sign of moisture that is hiding within walls and causing the paint and wallpaper to lose their adhesion to drywall and sheetrock. This flaking on walls and bubbling up of wallpaper is not just aesthetically unappealing, it is a warning of impending water damage that can worsen if not addressed.  

4. Stains and Discoloration

Water-stained ceilings and drywall are a sign of water damage that should not be neglected. Stains and discoloration may be caused by a leaky roof or leaking pipes behind drywall. Painting over these stains is a recipe for bigger water disasters later. The source of this moisture should be addressed at the earliest.

5. Warped Floors, Walls, and Ceilings

Water permeates easily in wood, drywall, and other hard yet porous surfaces. Once saturated with moisture, these materials begin to buckle and warp, severely compromising their structural integrity. This is extremely dangerous and homeowners must keep an eye out for any warping or creaking in their walls or floors. This is another hidden sign of water damage that can cost not only money but lives.  

6. Sudden Jump in Utility Bills

As the weather turns cold, a few jumps in utility bills is normal. Any other unusual increases in water bills suggest possible hidden leaks. Homeowners are advised to monitor their monthly water bills closely to find trends in usage so they can identify any anomalies in the bills. These anomalies are indicative of a potential water damage problem.  

7. Water Damage Under the Sink

Homeowners don’t always inspect their plumbing fixtures for any issues. This may become a reason why some water damage remains hidden. Although a little moisture under a kitchen or bathroom sink isn’t necessarily a cause of concern, a continuous drip or leak is a sign that immediate action is needed. 

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Lake Travis / NW Austin, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For water damage restoration services in Leander and surrounding areas, call SERVPRO of Lake Travis/NW Austin today at (512) 318-2202.