Did you know that recent research found that indoor air pollution (including mold) kills more children worldwide than outdoor pollution? The truth is that water damage isn’t just a threat to your home, it’s also a threat to your health.
Read on for five signs you have water damage, and what to do to fix it!
Stains or Mold
Two of the most obvious signs of water damage are visible stains or mold.
When water soaks into drywall and then evaporates, it leaves behind dirt and other particles that were in the water. This can leave staining.
Staining from floods will be visible as a ring around the bottom of the walls or baseboards. Staining can also happen when pipes leak inside walls or in the ceiling.
Mold is another sign of water damage or excessive humidity. It will often appear around windows, doors, and in the bathroom. Mold Removal often involves harsh chemicals and should always be done by a professional.
Structural Changes
Water damage often causes swelling in the walls, ceiling or floors. If you spot structural changes, like bulging or sagging in any area of your home, it could be a sign that water has leaked and is accumulating inside.
Floors begin to crack and warp when water damage goes untreated. Water Damage Restoration may be needed.
Another sign of water damage is bubbling or peeling paint. These more subtle changes may not seem malicious, but it’s important not to assume that it’s nothing.
Smell
Water damage gives off a distinct musty odor. The problem is that as we live in a space we become accustomed to it’s smells to the point that we can’t even recognize them anymore. This is called “nose blindness”.
So if you’re concerned that you’re unable to identify a musty odor, try leaving the house for an hour. When you return, take a few moments right as you re-enter your home to really try and identify what your nose picks up.
If you’re concerned about what you smell, contact an odor control professional immediately.
A Spike In Utility Bills
Water usage fluctuates throughout the year. You’ll usually see it peak during the summer months and during the holidays.
But if you see an uncharacteristic spike in your water bill, it could be a sign that you have a broken pipe that’s leaking water constantly. If you’re not able to identify a running tap (check all your tubs, showers, sinks, toilets, outside faucets, etc.) then the water could be leaking internally.
Health Indicators of Water Damage
Mold from water damage can cause a multitude of health concerns. If you or a loved one are suffering any of these symptoms, they may be signs that you have mold. The risk is that mold spores can enter your lungs as you breathe.
Common symptoms include:
- Headaches
- Nosebleeds
- Sinus infections
- Congestion
- Sore throat
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
If someone in your family is experiencing any one of these symptoms frequently, it may be a sign of mold! Contact Us today for a free quote. We work with your insurance so you don’t have to!
Don’t Let Water Damage Leave You High and Dry
If you identify signs of water damage in your home, it’s not the end of the world. Professional water damage specialists can remove and restore harmful areas. Contact us today for your water, mold, and fire damage repairs. We work directly with your insurance so you don’t have to!
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