Water damage can be a major problem in any home, leading to costly repairs and potential health risks. Fortunately, there are several signs that can help you detect water damage before it gets worse. The first sign that should prompt you to call a professional is water stains. If you see stains or any form of discoloration on walls, ceilings, floors, or furniture, you may have a major problem.
Mold may not always be an indicator of water damage, especially if you're in areas where water and oxygen are expected to be available. However, it is still something that should be given sufficient attention to so that you can determine its true cause. Another reliable sign of water damage is deformed boards or peeling paint. Paint and wood are often the first to show signs of water damage in a home.
If you find any mold growth in rooms that you would normally expect to be dry, then that could be a serious problem. Try walking barefoot on the carpets to check if there are any problems. Wet carpets indicate that there may be an underlying problem that requires your immediate attention. You could also be dealing with a water leak if you see a significant and sudden increase in your water bill or a gradual increase over several months. If the walls or ceilings are white, you may notice a beige or brown stain, which is a clear indicator of water damage.
It's also a good idea to check the rest of the house for other signs of water damage to identify which areas have been affected. Turn on a light in the pipes and use a flashlight to inspect the pipes under the sinks and behind the toilets. The sooner you investigate the problem, the sooner you can resolve it without incurring more losses. If you discover water damage in your home, trust the professional water damage repair teams at ServiceMaster Restore. Recognizing how to identify water damage in your home will not only save you money on expensive repairs, but it will also eliminate potential serious health problems.