Could a water damage ceiling be decreasing the value of your property or putting your family in danger? The answer is yes. In fact, disaster could be looming if you’re not careful. So, here’s what you need to know to stay safe (and sane).
What is a water damage ceiling?
Any ceiling that has taken on excessive amounts of moisture is called a “water damage ceiling” by the pros. It means your structure isn’t air-tight and water has been leaking in as a result. And while there are many ways to fix the problem, preventative maintenance is always your best bet.
To get (and stay) ahead of the curve, look for these 7 common signs of trouble:
- Yellow or brown stains
- Peeling paint
- Paint bubbling
- Cracks
- Foul odors
- Sagging beams
- Drywall bulges
If you see any of those signs or suspect an issue without seeing anything, contact a professional roofing company and/or mold remediation group for help immediately. The urgency is because every second makes a massive impact on the integrity of your home.
DID YOU KNOW: There are about 15,000 drops of water in a gallon, with one drop landing every second in the average water leak.
How moisture is ruining your home
Small water leaks can turn into big problems in a very short time. Then, you’ll start noticing things that can be pretty scary for your family and bank account. For example, excess moisture on the ceiling may soften the support beams and drywall, causing materials to drop from above. Also, you might lose some of your equity when it’s time to sell the property.
That’s because homes with visible water damage mean more work for the potential buyer. Meanwhile, mortgage underwriters and insurance companies are cautious about covering homes in disrepair. They’re considered liabilities, not assets. Therefore, the condition of your ceiling plays a huge role in the overall value of your house.
5 tips for fixing a water damage ceiling before disaster strikes
Fixing leaks and repairing water damage isn’t as complicated as you think. First, you must maintain your property to the highest standards. Then, you have to take the right steps when you discover a problem. Remember, waiting for too long is like asking for trouble.
- Look for the signs so you can stay on top of small leaks and tiny problems.
- Contact a plumber to stop the leak. That way, you can begin the restoration process as soon as possible.
- Hire a mold remediation specialist. Even if you don’t think there’s an issue, call someone anyway.
- Let the area dry out, which means keeping it empty or ventilated for quite some time.
- Ask a roofing company to help you examine the top of your house for weak spots.
Keep in mind, most homeowner’s insurance policies cover leaky roof repairs but they rarely cover pre-existing damage.
The final verdict
Your home could be suffering in silence, so stay ahead of the curve. That means maintaining your property and watching out for the signs of trouble. If you fail, your family and bank account could both suffer the consequences.
