How to Spot Water Damage?

There is a rancid smell of mildew and mold, the wooden flooring is rotted, and your basement is flooded. This is a scenario that nobody wishes to experience in their house. Your house is possibly the single largest investment you will make in your life. In order to protect that investment, you have probably installed sturdy locks on your doors, bought home insurance, and even installed a security system to make sure intruders stay out. But what do you do to prevent your house’s structure from crumbling due to water damage? Be proactive.

It is crucial to stay on the lookout for potential water damage. Detecting a leak before it causes devastating damage can save you thousands of dollars. To help you stay mindful, your friends at Tidal Wave Response have put together this article on how to spot water damage before it becomes a devastation.

Check the Floors

Next time you see some water on the floor, do not just wipe it away and move on. Puddles of water, especially around appliances like refrigerators and washing machines can be a sign of a leak. If neglected these leaks can turn into ruptures that can flood and destroy your property. Tile and wooden flooring can crack, buckle, or warp from water exposure and carpets will dampen, soften, and smell of mold and dampness.

Look for Stains

Leaky pipes and drains inside of your flooring and walls are harder to detect than leaks on the surface such as those from appliances. They can be detected, however. Water stains around the bathtub, toilet, sink, and other locations with known water pipe installations are the most obvious signs of water damage. Other signs of water damage include cracks in your drywall as well as soft spots. Additionally, as drywall is saturated, the paint on them can lose adhesion and begin to peel. 

Take a Look Outside

Water pipes and drains run throughout your home, but the source of water is from outside. Take a look at the exterior of your house and look for pools of standing water. Poor drainage in the yard as well as leaks underground can reveal themselves in the form of puddles of water. These are especially dangerous as they can threaten the foundation of your home. Another sign to look for while you are outside is damage on the roof. Look for damaged shingles, pools of water, or broken flashing.

Look for Rust and Mold

Some of the remnants of water and water damage are rust and mold. Corrosion and rust around pipes and pipe connections can be a sure indication of water leakage. Inspect your water heater and other water sources for rust. Additionally, keep your eyes – and nose – peeled for mold. Mold and bacteria can grow around stagnant water, producing an unpleasant smell. 

Call Tidal Wave Response

Tidal Wave Response is your local water damage restoration expert. Call us if you have any questions or concerns about water damage in your home. Tidal Wave Response guarantees upfront pricing with free estimates and no overtime charges. Available 24 hours a day, Tidal Wave Response provides response times as quick as under 30 minutes. Do not let the water damage develop – call now for a free consultation.