10 Not-So-Obvious Signs Of Water Damage In Your Home
Long-term water damage causes significant deterioration to your home if left untreated. Some signs of water damage are readily apparent, like water stains on walls and ceilings, a distinct musty odor, or a flooded basement from busted pipes or poor drainage. Others, however, may be more difficult to spot.
This article will look at ten1not-so-obvious signs of water damage in your home that you should be aware of. Keep reading to get to know them.
Causes Of Water Damage
Some areas are prone to extreme weather conditions. Heavy rainfall, cyclones, and storms can cause water to seep into homes through the roof, walls, or foundation. Houses located in flood-prone areas may be at particular risk of water damage.
Moreover, high humidity in the more tropical parts can cause moisture in homes, leading to mold growth and other types of damage.
In addition, plumbing issues, such as leaks or burst pipes caused by age, wear and tear, or extreme weather conditions, such as freezing temperatures, can also lead to damage.
Water damage can be relatively easy to troubleshoot, like the ones caused by windows or glass panes on doors that lack sealant, so water seeps in. However, some culprits require the help of experts such as Water Damage Specialist because they’re too complex or risky to DIY. For instance, poor drainage causes insidious damage, affecting the walls and flooring, with water seeping through the foundation; such havoc can be costly to repair!
Inconspicuous Signs Of Water Damage
Be on the lookout for these seemingly unnoticeable signs of water damage so you can act on them promptly and keep them from worsening:
- 1. Changes In Appearance And Condition Of Furnishings
Wood, furniture, medium-density fiberboards, carpets, or rugs can show indications of damage when chronically exposed to water. They can appear discolored or bleached, or they can also swell or warp. Moreover, they can develop cracks or splits, become soft and spongy, or emit foul odors.
- 2. Standing Water In The Yard
If you notice that water doesn't subside after it rains, check for clogged or damaged gutters, downspouts, or a grading issue that prevents water from flowing away from your home.
- 3. Puddles In The Basement
A basement with puddles or water spots after heavy rains may have poor drainage that has damaged the foundation, so water seeps through the floor or walls.
- 4. Soggy Soil Around The Foundation
Several factors, including grading issues, clogged gutters or downspouts, or a lack of proper drainage around the foundation, can cause soggy soil around your home's foundation.
- 5. Cracks In The Foundation
When water seeps into the soil around the foundation, it can cause the ground to expand and contract, putting pressure on the foundation and causing cracks.
- 6. Foul Odors
Poor drainage can also lead to foul odors in your home. If you notice a musty or unpleasant scent, it may be a sign of mold growth caused by excess moisture. When this happens, every effort must be exerted to stop the mold situation from getting out of hand. Otherwise, it can cause allergies or respiratory diseases.
- 7. Insect Infestations
Insects such as termites, ants, and cockroaches are attracted to damp environments. If you notice increased insect activity in your home, it could indicate poor drainage.
- 8. Peeling Paint Or Wallpaper
Peeling paint or wallpaper can be a sign of water damage. When water infiltrates the walls or ceilings, it can cause the paint or wallpaper to bubble or peel away from the surface. If you notice such signs, have your home inspected by a professional.
- 9. Warped Or Buckled Flooring
Water can seep into the subflooring, causing it to warp or buckle. This can be especially common in areas such as the bathroom, where water is frequently used. In such cases, have your house inspected by a professional for plumbing issues.
- 10. High Water Bills
A sudden increase in water bills could be a sign of water damage. A leaky pipe or other water issues can cause your water bill to skyrocket.
Knowing about these not-so-obvious signs of water damage allows you to address issues before they cause irreparable destruction to your humble home.
Conclusion
In conclusion, water damage can destroy your home if left untreated. While some signs of water damage are obvious, such as standing water or a musty odor, others may be more difficult to identify. In that case, a professional must inspect your home immediately to prevent further damage and ensure that your home remains safe and secure. This may involve clearing clogged gutters or downspouts, improving grading around the foundation, or installing a drainage system. Addressing the problem early can prevent serious damage to your home and ensure your family stays safe and healthy.
