Not only can moisture result in mold growth, it can also compromise the structural stability of affected areas. Failing to respond in a timely manner can increase the amount of damage, which is why it is important to spot hidden water damage before it wreaks havoc on your home. Here are a few symptoms of hidden water damage.
5 Common Signs of Hidden Water Damage
Dependent upon the extent and severity of the water damage, the evidence may differ. Generally though, there are tell-tale signs of hidden water damage
1. Stained or Discolored Rafters, Walls, and Ceilings
Visible discoloration and stains on your rafters, walls, or ceilings, is a clear sign of a leak. The spot may be a shade ranging from yellow to brown. While stains look simple now, this can be indicative of a severe structural issue to come if not properly mitigated.
2. Musty Odors
Some of the symptoms of hidden water damage can be found with your nose. A stale, musty, or stagnant odor could be from water that has absorbed into building materials. That smell could be leading you to mold.
3. Drooping Walls, Ceilings, and Floors
When water becomes lodged in walls, ceilings, and floors, the area quickly saturates, causing the materials to expand and become contaminated. Drooping or water bubbles are a sign that it is time to call FloodSERV.
4. Visible Mold Growth
If you find mold, there is moisture lurking as well. Mold on walls, baseboards, ceilings, or other areas means that you have found the leak. Call a trusted mold removal and mold remediation company to fix the issue. Left untreated, mold can lead to respiratory distress, allergies, and irritation.
5. Peeling Paint or Wallpaper
Is your wallpaper or paint peeling, flaking, or bubbling up? If so, this is a definite sign of hidden water damage. The water has saturated the sheetrock and penetrated the wall coating. For wallpaper, check seams for separation to identify water damage.
FloodSERV’s Roll in Hidden Water Damage
FloodSERV understands exactly how stressful hidden water damage can be. We eliminate your stress with expert water restoration services that identify the leak, fix the damage, and return the area to pre-loss condition. FloodSERV has the knowledge and experience to get you back to normal life sooner.