
Signs of Possible Internal Water Damage
Most people think water damage is something obvious such as a flood. However, there are many subtle types of water damages that can occur in a home. Within the walls of your bathroom, the risk of water damage nearly doubles, simply due to the moisture from hot showers, or baths when the little ones are imagining being an Olympic swimmer, and splashes all the water out of the tub, to the occasional toilet overflow.
There could be indicators of hidden water damage behind your walls and floors, which could eventually threaten not only your health, but the structural soundness of your home. Do you sneeze every morning after you shower? Is your wallpaper warped? Does your toilet feel like a rocking horse? Does your bathroom floor feel suspiciously soggy?
When moisture seeps into cracks and loose flooring, mould and mildew are unavoidable, which eventually leads to wood rot in walls and the subfloor. The following tips should help you recognize water damage before your floor gives way and sends the tub or toilet crashing down to the floor below, just like our commercial.
1. Suspicious Smells
Do you smell a moist or musty odor even after multiple sessions with a rag and cleaner? This may be a sign of hidden water damage and mould. Because the water damage is hidden, it never has a chance to fully dry, hence the continuous smell of mould. Water damage and mould growth go hand in hand. If you have a leak that managed to sneak under your radar, there is a chance of mould growth. Health issues and structural damage are major points of concern. Be sure to call Stutters Disaster Kleenup if you find mould. DIY websites will tell you that bleach can easily remove mould. However, bleach only removes the visible layer of mould and will never fully get rid of the issue.
2. Warping
When drywall is subject to moisture, it becomes soggy and begins to bubble. If not adequately and quickly taken care of, it will eventually warp and break into small pieces. Investigate the area for causes. If you can’t find a noticeable source, the culprit may be internally placed pipes.
3. Peeling, Cracking, or Swelling
Do you notice unusual cracks or paint peeling? Maybe you notice a water stain by the suspicious brown edges of the stain? Perhaps the flooring or baseboards are swelling without any signs of standing water? These are all indications of water damage. Slow leaks in pipes, loose caulking, and old appliances can all cause hidden water damage in your bathroom. In this situation, it is best to call Stutters Disaster Kleenup to assist you in regaining a functioning bathroom. Catching the problem early will ensure a safe and healthy home to save you time and money later down the road.
4. Unusual Sounds
You may detect a quiet dripping or the sound of running water noises—especially at night when your house is much quieter. This is a reason to call a professional because it indicates water issues deep within the structure of your home. Our Project Managers and technicians carry moisture detecting equipment that can better diagnose the extent and location of the water damage. We will also use our Infrared Camera to better see behind your walls.
Water damage can be a hassle, but it doesn’t have to be! Let our experienced and certified technicians aid you in restoring your home to its safe, clean state.
We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Call us at 1-877-763-1540 to have us attend.
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