Water Damage Signs You Should Never Ignore  

Water damage is a significant concern for Homeowners. If it isn’t detected and properly repaired, water can cause everything from structural damage to mold, causing health problems. It’s important to recognize the early signs to prevent future problems. Our specially trained teams at Safer Home Services LLC can handle your water damage cleanup in South Jersey and encourage you to be aware of five key signs of water damage that should not be overlooked.

Stains and Discoloration

One of the most obvious signs that you may have water damage in your home or property is odd stains and discoloration on walls, ceilings, and floors. These stains are often brown areas which can indicate that water is getting inside these surfaces. As soon as you notice this, if the source of the water is not easily found, contact a professional to identify the water or moisture source, promptly repair the source, and clean up any water damage that may have occurred, no matter how small. Even a small leak can lead to mold and mildew growth and other more damaging issues.

Persistent Musty Odors

If you smell something musty or wet, you might have water damage. This smell is usually caused by mold and mildew growth in areas where there is excess moisture. Keep in mind that even if you can’t see the mold, the odor is a red flag to investigate. Mold can cause a variety of health problems, like respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and headaches.

Peeling Paint and Wallpaper

When water is getting into walls behind paint and wallpaper, it will start bubbling or peeling and eventually warp the walls. This is a sign that your drywall or plaster is absorbing water and/or moisture. Inspect the area immediately, find the source, and get it repaired right away.

Warped Floors

Water damage causes all types of flooring to warp, buckle, and rot. This is common with wood floors, laminate, vinyl, and tile. If you notice areas of your floor are uneven, wet, and soft, investigate immediately and get the areas repaired to prevent extensive damage.

Unexplained Water Bill Increase

If you notice an unexpected water bill increase, it could be from a hidden leak. It could occur in pipes behind walls, under floors, or in the ceilings of your property. It’s a good idea to monitor your water bill and if you think you may have a leak, contact Safer Homes Services LLC for any water damage repair to help investigate and assist with the situation.

Take a Proactive Approach

It’s clear that when you notice signs of water damage, they should be repaired immediately to prevent more extensive damage from occurring. Regular maintenance and routine inspections are key to keeping your property free from water damage. The following list includes preventative measures to add to your routine:

  • Regular inspections: Areas that are prone to moisture build-up and water damage should receive periodic inspections, including basements, attics, and underneath sinks.
  • Maintain Gutters and Downspouts: The key is to direct water away from your home. Make sure that your gutters and downspouts are clear of leaves and debris so they can do their job and keep water away from your foundation.
  • Install A Sump Pump: A correctly installed sump pump will automatically turn on when water is detected and pump water away from the home.
  • Use Dehumidifiers: A dehumidifier reduces moisture in the air and helps prevent mildew and mold growth.  
  • Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late! Contact Safer Home Services LLC today for an on-site consultation to address any moisture concerns you may have.

Don’t ignore signs of water damage! Recognizing and addressing the early signs mentioned above is key to keeping your home healthy, safe, and structurally sound. If you suspect water damage, it’s important to get to the root of the problem as soon as possible and immediately repair the cause of the water intrusion or excess moisture. 

The teams at Safer Home Services LLC are experienced with everything from hidden leaks and basement waterproofing to major water damage repairs. Let’s get to work, and contact us today. 

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