Water damage can be a real pain for homeowners. From wet spots to higher-than-normal water bills, it can be difficult for most people to identify the source of the problem, especially if the damage is hidden behind walls. Even if you can’t see the leak, musty odors and discoloration in the wall should be enough to prompt a call for help. Here are a few common types of water leaks that can cause significant damage to your home.
Minimal Damage Leaks
A water leak is a serious problem when it’s left untreated. Whether the problem stems from pipes or other sources, the longer you wait to investigate and repair the issue, the more damage it will do to your home.
Even small leaks can add up and lead to structural problems in the walls of your house. These leaks aren’t always accompanied by obvious visible damage, but there are some key clues to watch for.
Check your water meter and shut off all the faucets, showers, dishwashers, and washing machines. Then, look for any unusual spike in your water usage.
Look for areas of the walls that have a strange texture or that are discolored in places. This could indicate a hidden leak in the wall, slowly damaging drywall or other components inside your home. These leaks aren’t usually a big deal, but a professional should still investigate them.
Severe Damage Leaks
Water damage in walls can be catastrophic if it goes undetected for long periods. Often, these leaks occur because of pinholes in plumbing systems or small failures in caulking. The resulting moisture is forced through these holes, which may lead to water spots or mildew stains on the surface of your walls. It’s best to catch this type of problem as early as possible, so having tools like a moisture meter and an infrared camera can save you money.
If a hidden leak remains untreated, it can lead to major structural damage, mold infestation, and rotted flooring. These problems can cause high costs you won’t want to pay. Fortunately, there are some clear warning signs to look for, like puddles of water near walls, discolored wallpaper or paint, and musty odors that indicate the presence of a hidden leak. You must immediately call for leak detection services if you spot any of these signs. They will help you check the water running in wall Jacksonville FL, and act on it immediately.
Contaminated Water Leaks
When water damage goes unnoticed for too long, it can penetrate and saturate drywall, sheetrock, wood framing, and other building materials. This moisture can cause rotting and sagging, creating the perfect conditions for mold growth. This can lead to costly water repairs and health hazards for you and your family.
The first sign of a hidden leak behind your walls is often the sudden increase in your water bill. If you suspect this, check your water meter and note the number. Then, turn off your home’s water at the meter.
Another sign of a hidden leak is when paint or wallpaper starts to separate from the wall. This is because the wall’s sheetrock and drywall absorb the water and cause it to warp. A warped wall can also cause the drywall to crack and weaken, leaving your house vulnerable to structural failures.
Mold and Mildew Leaks
Water leaks in walls and ceilings — especially those covered with drywall — can create a perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow. These types of molds thrive in moist conditions. They can cause various health problems, including respiratory irritation, itchy eyes and skin, asthma symptoms, sinus infections, coughing, sneezing and other ailments.
Look for discoloration on walls and a musty odor that doesn’t go away. Also, check the water meter. If it suddenly increases, you may have a hidden leak in the wall.
Visible mold usually appears light green to black spots and has a distinct odor. Cladosporium is one of the most common molds that grows in damp environments. Another is Aspergillus, which is greenish-black and can be found on paper, fiberboard, cellulose and dusty materials. Aspergillus can lead to a disease known as aspergillosis that affects the lungs and other organs.
