Water damage can cause serious damage to your home. With a mystery leak in your home, you may not even realize the damage is being done until it’s too late! Before you know it, your house looks like a flooded mess and you can’t even figure out the cause.
How can you spot a sneaky leak in your home?
Luckily for you, there are signs you can watch out for that indicate a leaky or damaged pipe. If you’re concerned about water damage in your home, here’s what you should look for.
1. Damage to Your Walls
Have you discovered a strange stain on one of your walls? Is your paint or wallpaper peeling away without any explanation? This is one of your first signs that something is wrong.
Water damage can cause your walls to bubble up and warp over time, and can also be the source of weird stains. For painted walls, water will cause moisture to be trapped between the paint and the wall, which weakens the bond your paint or wallpaper has to the wall and making it peel off.
2. Mold or Mildew
Mold thrives in moist, warm areas, and will fester near any pipe leaks you might have. If you notice mold anywhere in your home, you may have more to worry about than a leaking pipe; some molds can cause serious illnesses in humans, so make sure you contact someone about mold removal.
3. Soft Spots or Damage to Your Flooring
Water leaks under the floor can cause some awful damage to your flooring. You may find that unprotected wooden floors have gained a few soft or weak spots, or that your carpet has strange dampness to it. If you do see any of these signs, you should be on the lookout for a potential leak to avoid further damage.
4. Wet or Damp Smells
If left to fester long enough, you may start to smell stale water or a musky odor in your home near the source of the leak. As the water sits, it will become a home for bacteria, mold, and other nasty substances. This will cause a particular odor.
This will only happen if a leak goes ignored for a long period of time without maintenance. If you can’t remove that awful smell after cleaning your home, you may want a plumber to come by and check things over.
5. Your Water Bill Has Risen Without Reason
Even the smallest leak in your home can cause your water bill to go up. While a higher water bill doesn’t necessarily indicate a leaky pipe, you should keep it in mind, especially if you notice any other signs.
Sneaky Leak Be Gone
Detecting a sneaky leak around your home may seem like a hassle, but with these tips, you’ll become a pro at finding any hidden issues in your plumbing. Make sure you give your home regular checks to ensure it is well maintained.
Are you having issues with a leaky pipe you can’t seem to find?
We’re here to help. Contact us for any issues you’re experiencing with your plumbing, and continue reading our blog for more helpful tips.