Water has the power to cause great damage to your home, particularly if it is left unnoticed and untreated for too long. Not only can it damage your floors, walls, and help mold to grow, it can even result in permanent structural damage. So, you need to tackle the situation without delay.

How to spot water damage? This naturally must be a question now running in your mind. To solve the problem you must be able to first identify it and this is exactly what we shall now help you learn.

1. Your walls, ceilings, and floors look changed

Even though changes in your walls, flooring, and ceiling is amongst the first sign that suggests water damage most people take these for granted. We do clean these parts of our home on a regular basis, but do we really pay close attention to the warning signs?

The early signs of water damage that you must not miss include bubbling or peeling wallpaper or paint. If you do not take timely action they will start swelling, get bloated, and even might warp. If the situation becomes worse, then the ceilings and walls may feel spongy when you touch them.

You might not notice wet flooring, particularly, if it is in the corner of those rooms that you do not use frequently. If you have started seeing peeling tiles or wet patch in your carpeting then water damage has already affected the sub-flooring.

2. Molds or stains are visible

Molds or stains can also speak of water damage. If there is a consistent, slow leak, stains can develop and if the area remains damp consistently then it will help in the growth of mold.

Water stains are generally yellowish-brown in color and you can see them occurring in irregular shapes in the area where there is water leakage. The most common areas where one may notice them include laundry rooms, bathrooms, and basements as these areas have a lot of pipes and experience frequent water usage.

Mold thrives in areas where there is persistent moisture. Drywall, wood, ceilings, and carpeting are amongst some materials where mold can develop if it remains damp for too long. Mold, as you may believe, is just not black in color but also green, grey, and blue. Since mold grows mostly in the basement, bathrooms, and kitchens, these areas must receive frequent attention.

3. Utility costs are going higher

If your sewage or water bills have suddenly increased then this can also be one of the warning signs suggesting water damage.

Water usage increases during holidays when you may have guests staying with you for a long period of time, and also during the summer months. Little differences are okay, but if you notice a sudden increase in the utility bills which cannot be explained then you need to get cautious.

Check to find out if all the faucets are off and none of them are leaking, the toilets are running properly, and also check if there are any leaks around appliances like washing machines and dishwashers. If no problem has been noticed then chances are there may be a leaking pipe somewhere in the walls.

4. A strange smell bothers you

A musty smell also suggests chances of water damage. The smell is quite like wet cardboard or newspaper and the odor is strongest around those areas where the water damage has occurred. These areas may even feel humid or damp, depending on the season, the reason for water damage, and the temperature of the place. Hunt for other signs like stains or mold that also suggests water damage.

5. Old plumbing fixtures and pipes can be the culprit

Pipes are generally taken for granted as most of then cannot be even seen. Though pipes can last you very long, valves, faucets, and connections may wear out with time. Also, air conditioning, furnaces, and tanks have a limited lifespan. You must get your air conditioning, furnace, and water heater checked frequently to make sure they are in proper condition.

Check all valves, faucets, and pipes to make sure there are no leakages. As most of the pipes run through the walls, you can carefully listen to them to find out faults. During the night when there is less noise listen carefully for any sound of dripping. If you do hear such sounds then it suggests there is a water leakage somewhere in your walls and needs immediate attention.

Do not forget to check around your toilets, and beneath your sinks to make sure the drain pipes and water supply are in proper condition and there is no leakage. Also, ensure the cabinets are not moist and mold is not growing. Any damage noticed must be handled without delay.

Conclusion

Now that you are aware of the signs of water damage you must look for them and if you do observe them then call a professional and get help. Even after identifying these signs if you still wait before calling for help then you are giving time for the problem to grow and then the expense of repairs will also keep increasing. Act on time and you will not only be saving money but also your beautiful home from getting badly damaged.