Water has been damaging homes since the days of timber branches and mud huts. The only difference today is that homes can be affected by a lot more than just Mother Nature.
Burst pipes, appliance leaks, and overflowing toilets can all cause water damage inside your home’s walls. Let’s take a look at how to spot early signs of water damage, common areas where it occurs, and the importance of calling Same Day Restoration.
Spotting Water Damage Behind Your Walls
Spotting water damage isn’t as easy as it seems, especially if it’s in your walls. However, there are a few signs you can keep an eye out for.
Damaged Paint or Wallpaper
The first sign of trouble may be peeling or bubbling paint or wallpaper. This happens when water seeps into your wall, causing the adhesive to lose its grip. Look for any uneven spots on your walls, as they could indicate a hidden leak.
Musty Odors
A musty or damp smell coming from your walls could be a sign of water damage. This smell could be coming from mold, which can grow in as little as 24 to 48 hours after water damage. If a pipe has been leaking for a while, unbeknownst to you, you probably have mold growing somewhere.
Warped, Brown, or Yellow Spots on the Wall
Warped or discolored areas on your walls, such as brown or yellow spots, may point to water damage. These spots are often caused by prolonged exposure to moisture and will grow the longer the leak leaks. Contact Same Day Restoration if you notice any spots or stains that grow over time.
Wet or Damp Patches
Feeling the walls for damp patches is an easy way to identify water damage. Run your hand along the wall to determine where the wet patches are; these spots may also appear warped or wrinkled. If you find wet patches, contact an experienced water damage specialist, as water behind walls can cause structural damage.
Common Wall Water Damage Areas
Even though water damage can happen anywhere within your home, there are a few common hotspots. Bathrooms and kitchens bear the brunt of water damage, but it can also show up in your living room and bedrooms, depending on the location of the leak.
Poorly sealed windows and doors can also cause water damage, so make sure to check those areas regularly. Ceilings and roofs should also be inspected regularly to ensure no leaks are present. That being said, if a leak is present, it’s better to address it early on rather than letting it grow into a big problem.
Mold Growth Signs From Water Damage in Walls
If you’ve recently experienced a water disaster such as a flood or burst pipe, the chance of mold growth is extremely high. Mold grows and thrives in warm, wet environments, making your walls the perfect breeding ground for this fast-growing fungus.
Appearance
Mold can take on a variety of colors including yellow, brown, white, green, or black spots. Black mold isn’t just unsightly, but it’s also a health hazard. But most mold associated with water damage will either be yellow or brown.
Texture
Water-damaged walls will have a specific texture prone to bubbling or flaking, whereas mold will feel fuzzy, slimy, or even powdery. If you’ve touched a patch of mold, wash your hands immediately and call Same Day Restoration.
Spread
We urge homeowners not to clean up mold themselves, especially during summer. In fact, those who try to DIY mold removal may wind up making the mold spread. The best way to remove mold completely is to contact a seasoned mold remediation specialist.
Odor
Mold has an unmistakable smell that gets stronger and stronger as it continues to grow. While most describe the smell of mold as musty, others may find the smell to resemble old wet socks or rotting wood panels.
Health Impact
The health repercussions of mold can worsen allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issues. If you notice any new respiratory problems, watering eyes, or headaches accompanied by the smell of mold, get in touch with Same Day Restoration.
Water Stains on the Wall? Contact Same Day Restoration
Water damage can be ruthless. If you notice signs like damaged wallpaper, peeling paint, foul odors, or unsightly stains on your walls or ceiling, it’s time to contact the crew at Same Day Restoration.
For over 14 years, residents in San Diego County and Orange County have been relying on us to handle water damage of all sizes. Contact us online or call for 24/7 emergency water damage services.
