Water damage is a major pain in the…property value. Worse yet, it can be difficult to detect and its effects can be long-lasting. Then, fixing the problems created can be expensive and time-consuming, not to mention dangerous.
Your best bet is to hire a mold remediation company right after consulting with a plumber. But those services can be crazy expensive, so what gives? Learn how to recognize the signs of a water leak so you don’t have to call in the pros.
What is water damage?
This term is used as an umbrella to describe possible losses caused by water. Excessive moisture causes destruction because of how it interacts with the materials and systems exposed to it. Prolonged exposure to water can lead to potentially dangerous conditions in many cases. That’s why it’s important to know the signs of trouble.
What are the signs of a leak?
Detecting a water leak isn’t as difficult as it sounds. Damages may have eluded you before, but it’s much easier to recognize the signs when you know what they are. First things first, however, let’s talk about safety.
Mold and mildew spores are common around water leaks and existing damage. Bacteria grow rapidly as well. Both can cause sickness, but neither is impossible to remove. Fortunately, there are clear signs that something is wrong, so preventative maintenance is relatively easy when you understand what to look for.
Here are some indicators that you may have a water leak that’s causing damage:
- High water bills
- Continuously running utility meters
- Dripping noises
- Unpleasant odors
- Cracks or stains on the walls or floors
- Soft spots in the flooring
- Swollen wood
If the leak has been going on for a long time, you might also notice structural damage and even missing components. Keep your eyes peeled for pest infestations as well.
TIP: If you see or smell mold or mildew, contact a professional for remediation to prevent unnecessary injury.
How to stop leaks and prevent water damage
Stopping a water leak can be as simple as preventing it from happening in the first place. If you suspect a leak or water damage on your property, take these three steps:
- Assess the situation. It’s best that you know as much about the problem as possible so you can give an accurate description to any expert you hire.
- Call a plumber. Simple projects may be DIY but more water leakage issues require professional help. They can help you locate the leak, fix the issue, and give you tools for proper maintenance too.
- Heed the plumber’s advice. You may have to change a few minor habits to accommodate this guidance but at least it will save you time and money in the end.
When prevention is impossible, contact a mold remediation company or water damage repair service to get things back to a livable state.
The spill
The damage caused by leaking water can create headaches that cost hundreds, if not thousands. Practice preventative maintenance and know when to call in the experts for help.
