Five common signs of water damage:
Discolored or peeling paint
Dank or musty odors
Sagging ceilings or floors
Unexplained water stains
Unusual noises
If you’ve noticed any of these telltale signs, further investigation is warranted!
discolored or peeling paint
Moisture is the leading cause of discolored or peeling paint. In rooms with high humidity or slow leaks, it is very common for the walls to start showing tiny flaws. If the cause of the discoloration, cracking or peeling is unknown, it must be investigated and taken care of to prevent further issues such as structural damage or mold growth. Regardless of how mild or severe the damage is, it is important to look for the cause and solve the issue early. As moisture continues to spread throughout the wall, costly remediation will become necessary and cover a much larger area. Worse, long-term issues are considered maintenance issues, and any remediation services will likely not be covered by insurance. If you see discolored or peeling paint, call a professional like American Restoration Solutions for an assessment ASAP. With their experience and expertise, they can determine exactly where the source of the water damage originates and remediate the problem accordingly.
Dank or musty odors
If you notice a musty, unpleasant odor in your home, it is very likely that there is some form of hidden or long-term water damage. Issues like pinhole leaks or dripping pipes, leaky roofs, and foundation seepage can lead to hidden moisture build up, resulting in less than pleasant odors in your home or business that persist despite normal cleaning efforts. Lack of airflow and proper ventilation can trap moisture, creating the ideal conditions for microbial growth and colonies of mold to take over. Once mold is established, the fungus releases spores into the air that can spread throughout your home or business. Don’t wait for odors to go away on their own. If you smell something, say something!
sagging ceilings or floors
It is crucial to address the issue of sagging ceilings or floors promptly to ensure that the structural integrity of your home is not compromised. Hidden damage from shifting, settling, or rot caused by insects or water damage are the primary causes of sagging ceilings or floors. When a structure framing member is saturated by water over time, the wood will weaken, rot and decay. An increase in moisture can also often lead to the introduction of pests. Termites and carpenter ants thrive and eat away at saturated wood which can damage structural beams and lead to sagging ceilings or floors. Hiring a professional to assess the situation and find/fix the damage as well as the cause of the damage as soon as possible will minimize additional long-term damage and expenses.
unexplained water stains
There are several reasons why you may find unexplained water stains on the interior or exterior of your home or business. Roof leaks due to cracked, missing or worn-out shingles can allow water to seep in through areas of your home you would likely never imagine, as water can travel across framing before dripping on a surface below. Clogged or incorrectly pitched gutters can cause an overflow of water, leading to stains on the exterior and interior damage if the backed-up water gets behind the fascia board. As buildings age, cracks in the foundation from settling are very common, allowing water to enter the basement. Worn out chimney caps and flues may also permit water into your basement, creating rust-colored stains on the floor. Plumbing leaks and appliance malfunctions are also very typical, leading to corrosion, rust, and unexplained stains.
unusual noises
Structural problems or appliance issues can sometimes be audible. Pay attention and be vigilant if you notice creaking, groaning, popping or banging, as it may be indicative of an impending failure or hidden damage.
If you notice any of the signs of hidden property damage, call the professionals for inspection and mitigation. Now that the common indicators have been highlighted, the next step is knowing how to prevent further damage.
how to prevent property damage:
Schedule regular inspections
Identifying potential hazards can prevent accidents and further damage, ensuring your safety and the longevity of your home. If mitigation is required, contact American Restoration Solutions at 833-4MITIGATION for your full-service restoration needs. One Call, Complete Recovery.
maintain your roof
Professionals recommend conducting inspections every 2-5 years or if you suspect damage after severe weather. Scheduling routine inspections for your home is the best way to guarantee longevity and strength over time.
check for plumbing leaks
Leaks are often found under sinks, around toilets, in the basement or crawl space, and behind walls. Look for water stains, rust, and leaky faucets and keep an ear out for unusual noises which can be an indication of a pipe leak or blockage.
inspect electrical wiring
Electrical work should be conducted by a licensed electrician, however, if you must check something on your own, always be sure to shut off the power at the breaker panel. Do not overload circuits by having too many devices plugged into one outlet and never keep electrical appliances near water. Outdoor electrical wiring should always be weather-resistant and regularly inspected, especially after storms.
address pest infestations
Identify the pest you’re dealing with, seal probable entry points, and reduce moisture caused by leaks, improper ventilation, or flooding. In some cases, pests can be taken care of with basic repellents. In other cases, professional help might be necessary to properly remediate the infestation.
improve ventilation
Opening windows and doors in your home can improve the air quality and decrease the possibility of excessive moisture. Dehumidifiers and exhaust fans that are vented to the exterior can help remove existing moisture. You also may consider installing a whole-house ventilation system to prevent moisture levels from rising any further.
seal cracks and gaps
Check for any cracks or gaps near windows, doors and pipes and treat them accordingly with the proper sealant. Depending on the severity of the cracks, you may need to call a professional. Having a sturdy and smooth base with no cracks and gaps will prevent continuous deterioration.
install a sump pump
Designed to remove excess water and prevent flooding in your basement, installing a sump pump is a great way to keep your home safe and dry. The effects of flooding can be devastating, but having a sump pump installed can help protect your belongings in case of severe storms and provide you peace of mind.
At American Restoration Solutions, we are more than happy to help mitigate your property damage.
Call 833-4MITIGATION for your full-service restoration needs. One Call, Complete Recovery.