Signs Of Hidden Water Leaks

Finding water damage in your home or business is very unsettling. Even worse… not finding water damage until it has become a very serious problem. Hidden water damage is very common because the majority of plumbing is located in areas we cannot see. When water leaks behind walls, in ceilings, and under floor boards, it can go unnoticed for prolonged periods of time; giving mold a surplus of moisture to grow and spread and causing extended damage and exposure to the materials that make up the structure of your home or building. So, how do you know what to look for with hidden water damage? Here are some signs that you may have water leaking where you cannot see it:

1. Musty Odors

We all know that smell when the wash has been left in the washing machine a little too long; it is not a pleasant one. That musty and damp odor, when not caused by forgotten wet laundry, is a good sign of water issues somewhere in the room. The longer water damage sits, or goes unnoticed, the more likely that mold will grow. Bacterial growth creates an unpleasant, mildewy, earthy smell. If you cannot see any leaking or pooling water, and if the smell is persistent or even getting stronger, it is time to call in the water damage experts to find out what is going on, and get the problem solved so that you don’t have to suffer through the smell any longer. 

2. Discoloration/ Visible Stains

When water seeps into areas it is not supposed to be, it will begin to saturate all the materials it comes into contact with. Drywall in walls and ceilings will begin to show visible wet spots or stains once they have become saturated with water. These stains could be small spots, or large areas of discoloration. Some spots may just look wet, while others may take on a brownish color. If you notice stains, and especially if those stains and spots are changing shape, color, and size, then it is a strong indicator that there is a hidden leak and it needs to be checked before the problem gets worse.

3. Warping/Bubbling/Cracking/Drooping 

When materials like drywall and floorboards become fully saturated with water, they will begin to get extra heavy because of the weight of all the added moisture. This extra weight will cause drywall and ceiling to bubble, buckle, droop, and even crack. Floorboards will begin to swell, warp, and bend. Any deformity in the structural elements (bubbling, warping, peeling, bending, cracking, etc) of your home should be inspected immediately for hidden water damage. 

If you suspect water damage in your home or business in Idaho Falls, or surrounding areas, or notice any of the above signs, call Restore Rite right away.  Our experts offer top-quality water damage cleanup and restoration services to both residential and commercial clients. Our team is trained and experienced in extracting water and drying areas that suffer water damage. Don’t wait, let us handle all your water damage cleanup needs the RITE way.