6 Water Damage Signs and How to Fix Them

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Water damage is a grave issue that can weaken the foundations of your home without you knowing, leading to structural deterioration, health hazards, and financial burdens. Whether it’s caused by heavy rainstorms, plumbing failures, or humidity-related issues, water damage is a common problem that affects homeowners in Orlando and beyond.

Continue reading to learn more about water damage signs and how you can address those issues.

1.   Peeling or Bubbling Paint

The most basic symptom of water damage is the peeling and bubbling of paint. This phenomenon, also known as seepage, occurs when the walls and ceilings of your home are in contact with excess humidity. It also occurs after rains and floods where building structures are in prolonged contact with standing water.

This excess contact of water with paints causes the paint to chip and flake. At the same time, the loss of adhesion causes unsightly blisters near the joints and bottom parts of walls. To successfully address this issue, you need to identify the source of water infiltration. Some common places to look can be leaky pipes, damaged roofs, and faulty plumbing connections. Once you fix the underlying issue, you can remove the damaged paint and repaint that area. You can also use a good primer to waterproof the paint and prevent further exposure to moisture.

There’s a high chance that torrential rainfall will cause paint decay if you live in regions like Orlando, known for its humid climate and occasional storm-causing sea breezes. As per stats, the city receives an average of 51 inches of rainfall annually, whereas the US average is 37 inches. Moreover, studies show that water damage poses a 26% risk of damaging about 5,694 properties in Orlando for the next 30 years.

All these facts call for immediate action, and homeowners should start taking preventive measures to protect their homes from flooding and water damage. Hiring Orlando Water Damage experts will prove worthwhile in safeguarding your house from water damage. They’ll assess the damages and mitigate the issues while carrying out all the necessary repairs.

2.   Deteriorating or Rotting Wood

Wood is used extensively in the interiors of modern-day homes, such as in walls, ceilings, and flooring. But your beautifully crafted interior can turn into a rotten, moldy mess if water infiltrates through your home. When wooden materials and hardware are subjected to prolonged exposure to moisture, high humidity levels, and inadequate ventilation, they break down and pose safety hazards.

After fixing the source of moisture, replace the damaged wood with new ones. However, it’s not that simple because water seepage can return in no time. For this purpose, sealants and paints act as a protective layer against moisture and humidity. Not only do these act as a barrier between wood and moisture, but they also prolong the lifespan of your wooden hardware.

3.   Musty Odor and Molds

A persistent musty smell can indicate water damage in your home. Damp areas like crawl spaces or basements can foster mold and mildew growth, releasing an unpleasant odor. To combat these issues, you can improve ventilation by installing exhaust fans or dehumidifiers. Also, conduct a thorough inspection and repair any leaks or cracks in the foundation, pipes, and windows.

This humidity can also cause mold or mildew to develop. The presence of mold in your home indicates excess moisture and potential water damage. The most commonly mold-infested places can be walls, ceilings, and furniture. If you notice fuzzy, discolored patches or experience unexplained allergies or respiratory symptoms, you must address the issue immediately.

Start by identifying and repairing the source of moisture and then move on to removing the mold using appropriate cleaning solutions and protective gear. Several professionals and mold remediation services are also available in the market, and you can choose any affordable option to ensure complete removal and prevent further health risks.

4.   Stains or Discoloration

Have you noticed water stains or discoloration on your walls, ceiling, or floors? Be aware, as this can be a clear indication of water damage. These unsightly marks are caused by water seeping into building materials, leaving behind visible traces. As always, the first step towards fixing any water damage is identifying the source of water infiltration in your home structure and promptly addressing any leaks or plumbing issues. Once proper water drainage has been ensured, you can start treating the stains or discoloration.

Scrub the surface with a mild detergent and warm water solution. For more stubborn stains, use a mixture of water and vinegar or some commercial stain remover. You can also use sanding but be careful not to damage the underlying material. Once you’re done with stain removal, repaint or refinish the surface to restore its appearance. In some cases, particularly if the water damage has caused extensive structural damage, it may be necessary to seek professional assistance.

5.   Increased Water Bills

Water leaks are often one of the leading underlying causes of water damage. One effective way to know if you are facing water leaks is by keeping an eye on your water bills. A sudden increase in utility bills can be alarming and point toward water leakage in your home. No matter how small, these leaks can result in significant water wastage and inflated water bills.

One way to detect and fix these water leaks can be by turning off all water sources in the house. It includes all your taps and faucets, toilets, and appliances. Monitor the water meter and check if it continues to run. If the meter is still running even after all water sources are turned off, it indicates a leak within the plumbing system.

Locating the leak can often become a labor-intensive task because the leak is concealed within walls, floors, or underground pipes. So, it’s recommended to take help from a professional who will ensure that the leak is appropriately fixed and work with precision.

6.   Sagging or Warped Floors

Sagging or warped floors are often a result of water damage that causes the underlying structure to weaken or warp. Weak or warped floors can be attributed to factors such as plumbing leaks, excessive moisture, or flooding. When water infiltrates the subfloor or foundation of a structure, it causes the wood to expand, buckle, or rot, resulting in a sagging or warped appearance. To fix sagging floors, inspect the area for water leakage and repair it thoroughly.

Once the leakage issue is resolved, you must carefully address the damaged flooring. Depending on the severity of the damage, you would be required to remove the affected boards, tiles, or floor covering and replace them with new material.

Conclusion

Recognizing and promptly addressing the early signs of water infiltration in your home can prevent further damage and costly repairs. Some common symptoms of water damage include plumbing issues, discoloration of walls and ceilings, mold growth, musty odor, and deteriorating or rotten wood. Regular inspections, timely repairs, and professional home repair services can help you fix these issues, mitigate the risks of water damage, and ensure a safe and secure living environment for your loved ones.