5 Signs of Water Damage to Keep an Eye Out for in Your Home

Natural Causes vs. Human-Made Causes

When it comes to water damage in your home, the source is generally categorized into one of two broad types: natural causes and human-made causes.

Understanding the difference between these two will help you take appropriate preventive measures and guide your water damage restoration efforts more effectively. 

Natural Causes:

• Heavy Rainfall
• Storms and Hurricanes
• Melting Snow and Ice

Human-Made Causes:

• Leaky Pipes
• Faulty Plumbing
• Blocked Drains
• Household Appliances
• Human Error

So, what are the signs of water damage?

1. Visual Indicators of Water Damage

Visual signs are often the first indicators that water damage is affecting your home. These signs range from subtle changes in the appearance of walls and floors to more obvious issues like mold growth. 

Let's explore some of these visual indicators in detail.

Stains and Discoloration

One of the most straightforward signs of water damage is the appearance of stains or discoloration on your walls, ceilings, and floors. These stains are usually yellow or brown and can vary in size. They are often found in areas where water has accumulated over time such as around leaky pipes or windows.

Peeling Paint or Wallpaper

Water-soaked walls cause paint or wallpaper to peel, bubble, or blister. Peeling paint or wallpaper not only ruins the aesthetic of your home but also indicates that immediate action is needed to halt the progression of water damage.

Warped or Buckled Flooring

Excessive moisture has a detrimental effect on most types of flooring. Hardwood floors may begin to warp, while laminate and tile floors can buckle or crack. These are clear signs that water has seeped into the flooring material.

Mold Growth

Mold is a serious concern when it comes to water damage. Dark spots on walls, ceilings, or grout lines may indicate the presence of mold. Mold thrives in damp, humid conditions and poses significant health risks if not addressed promptly. 

2. Structural Signs of Water Damage

While visual cues are often the first indicators of water damage, structural signs are equally important but require a more in-depth investigation. These signs are more subtle and don’t always manifest until water damage has reached an advanced stage. 

Here are some structural signs to look out for:

Sagging Ceilings and Walls

One of the most alarming structural signs of water damage is sagging ceilings and walls. This occurs when water accumulates in these areas, adding extra weight and causing the material to sag. If you notice any sagging, address the issue immediately. It could lead to a collapse, posing a severe safety risk.

Cracked Foundations

Water damage might significantly impact the foundation of your home. Excessive moisture leads to the soil expanding and contracting, which in turn causes your foundation to crack. These cracks allow water to seep into your home, exacerbating the water damage and leading to potential structural failure. 

Doors and Windows that Stick

Another telling sign of water damage is doors and windows that stick or are difficult to open and close. This often occurs when the wooden frames swell due to moisture. While this may seem like a minor inconvenience, it's often an indicator of water damage issues affecting the structural elements of your home.

Floor Separation

In extreme cases, water damage can cause the flooring to separate from the subfloor. This is often noticeable as a "spongy" feeling when walking on the floor or visible gaps between the floor and the baseboards. Floor separation is a severe sign of water damage.

Deteriorating Support Beams

In homes with exposed support beams, especially in basements or attics, you may notice that the beams are deteriorating. This could manifest as rotting wood, rust on metal beams, or even visible mold. 
Always consult professionals when you notice any of these signs to get an accurate assessment and appropriate treatment.

3. Sensory Indicators of Water Damage

Sensory indicators often serve as early warnings, allowing you to take preventive measures and initiate timely water damage restoration. 
Here are some sensory cues to be aware of:

Musty Odor

One of the most common sensory signs of water damage is a persistent musty smell. Odor is often the result of mold or mildew growth, which occurs in damp and humid conditions. The smell can emanate from walls, floors, or even furniture.

Increased Humidity

A sudden or unexplained increase in indoor humidity is a sign of water damage. High humidity levels make the air feel heavy and may also lead to condensation on windows, mirrors, and other surfaces. While a humid environment may not always indicate water damage, it's a condition that warrants further investigation, especially if it persists.

Unusual Sounds

Sounds like dripping, rushing water, or creaking floors are also indicators of water damage. These sounds are most noticeable when the house is quiet, such as late at night or early in the morning. If you hear such noises, try to locate the source.

Tactile Sensations

You might feel the signs of water damage before you see them. For example, walking on a carpet that feels damp or encountering a wall that feels cold and wet to the touch might indicate water damage. 

Trust your senses; if something smells, feels, or sounds off, it's worth taking the time to investigate.