Water damage poses big problems for a structure when left unaddressed.

Water damage often spreads subtly, requiring homeowners to actively look for it. That’s where we come in! Below are some ways to tell if there might be (or definitely is) water damage in your home. Most of them involve nothing more than using your basic senses.

Look at the Walls, Floor, and Ceiling

One of the early warning signs of water damage in the walls or ceiling is bubbling in the surface. After a while, the bubbling can grow into larger swollen or warped patches, and the texture might become spongy.

Wet flooring can easily go unnoticed early on, especially if it’s tucked away in a corner of the room. Damp carpeting is an obvious hint, and peeling tiles can suggest a larger problem.

If there’s a room in your home that’s infrequently used or looked into, make it a point to check around once in a while.

Listen

Dripping or running water can be a sign of water damage. Creaking floorboards could also be a clue. Of course, dripping and running water are common sounds in any home, and nobody with wooden floors in their home is a stranger to creaky boards. The key is to notice whether these sounds are a change from normal conditions.

Is There an Odor?

Dampness creates a distinct odor. Sometimes it’s amplified by mold, which gives off a musky scent. When your eyes or ears don’t notice water damage, your nose often will pick it up.

Higher Water Bills

A sharp increase in your water bill can indicate a water problem, but before you worry, think about if your living situation altered during that time. Did you have guests over for an extended stay? Did you start a garden and you’ve been watering it frequently? Maybe you’re taking longer or more frequent cool showers to cope with summer heat. If your lifestyle hasn’t changed, then you should start looking around for signs of water damage.

Mold

If there’s mold, there’s water damage: that’s the cold, hard reality. But you might not need to worry about restoration just yet! Sometimes it’s a result of frequent periods of condensation, like in the bathroom. In any case, you should quickly start drying out the area, examine the situation, and go from there.

Should I Call Someone When I Find Water Damage?

It’s common to feel like waiting before calling for professional help. Whether you address it now or later, by yourself or by hiring a professional, it’s going to cost money. Consider that it will probably cost more to fix a serious issue later than a smaller one sooner. Also, a professional probably has better knowledge and training, whether it’s drying out the area or taking on a restoration project.

When you do need a professional to handle the removal, remediation, or restoration in your home, we’re always prepared to help!

Reach out to us today to request a free, no-obligation inspection for damage restoration. Call (888) 437-2961 or use our convenient Contact form. And remember, we offer 24/7 Emergency Service!