Have you recently moved into a newly built home and suspect a leak or water damage? Understanding how to spot indicators of water damage in your home is critical. Water damage to a property is a far more significant issue than most people realise. Aside from the apparent physical damage, water damage can cause various health problems, such as allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory problems.
“What does water damage look like?” is a frequently asked question. Fortunately, there are methods for detecting water damage in your home. You must perform a detailed inspection to detect damage. Identifying problem areas will help you avoid costly blunders.
Water Damage Symptoms
Recognising water damage in a property is a recurring theme in this context. Here are some of the most typical indications of water damage that may help you figure out how to recognise water damage in a house:
Stains Caused by Water
Water stains are a major indicator of water damage to walls. Roof leaks are the most common cause of stains and minor colour discolouration on walls, floors, and ceilings. While evaluating the surface of your walls/ceilings is obvious, search for discolouration at corners where walls meet ceilings, floors, and other walls.
Dampness and humidity
Unusual humidity or wetness in your home could indicate an unnoticed water leak. Examine damp surfaces (such as counters and walls) for water accumulation. A nearby leak is often to blame.
Mould
Mould grows in environments with water and oxygen. Mould is a serious problem unless you detect a small spot on your shower curtain liner. A mould problem is usually caused by high humidity or a water leak. A specialist is required in cases of mould unless the cause of excess water is obvious.
Dripping/Unusual Noises
It may seem evident that water is pouring, but the sound of a leak can take on a variety of disguises inside a house. Please pay close attention when the house is quiet (nighttime when traffic outside is minimal and most people are sleeping). Water leaks are sometimes found through scratching or rushing sounds that are not always associated with water.
Paint flaws or soft spots
Water damage typically manifests itself first in a home’s paint and wood. Water damage is frequently indicated by warped floorboards or peeling paint. It is also one of the most noticeable symptoms of water damage to walls.
Health Concerns
An issue with water-induced mould growth could cause abrupt respiratory distress. Mould has been linked to various health problems, including lung infections, asthma, and severe allergic reactions.
Check for damage throughout your home as soon as you notice brown stains. Preventive maintenance around the house does not have to wait for a calamity. Recognising water damage in your home will not only save you money on costly repairs, but it will also minimise potentially major health risks.
Methods for Assessing Wall Damage Caused by Water
Water damage beneath walls is often difficult to detect and only sometimes obvious. A leaking pipe could be the source of a dirty spot on your wall.
The good news is it’s easy to spot water damage and stop the leak before it gets worse!
As a first step, it is vital to look for musty scents. The musty odour is caused by excess water absorbed by materials such as drywall.
Next, keep an eye out for mould growth. If you observe mould development on your walls, particularly in regions with no known plumbing fixes, it is likely due to water damage to your walls.
Finally, you may be able to notice visible water damage on your walls. Water stains, peeling wallpaper, and bowed walls are all potential indicators of water damage.
What does water seepage look like in new buildings?
Water seepage in new construction typically appears as an accumulation of water at the base of a wall. It occurs when concrete is not properly sealed to prevent moisture ingress. Water may also be visible as a drip line along the ceiling.
Contact Reztor Restoration immediately for a free assessment if you suffer from water damage.
Questions That We Get A Lot
How can you identify whether the water damage is fresh or old?
Water damage is recent if you find a dark spot with no rings surrounding it. As time passes, older damage from flooding or other liquid contacts will have many more apparent rings- just like trees!
How does water damage appear on wood?
Water damage to hardwood will be visible as stains and discolouration. It will also lift the floorboards and the nails holding them in place.
Is there a device that can identify water leaks?
Several leak-detection devices are on the market today. Two alternatives are a water leak detection system and basic water monitors.
