Places In Our Homes To Watch For Water Damage

two people standing in water damage needing removal in san marcosWater damage is an inevitable disaster that everyone deals with at varying degrees. It may seem obvious to watch for the common signs after a burst pipe, leaky roof, or a flood. However, sometimes there is some water damage that can occur without a homeowner even knowing about it. Unfortunately, there are places in our homes where water damage can go completely unchecked because homeowners don’t often visit those areas or they lack accessibility.

Water Damage Removal – San Marcos

Just because you can’t see the water damage, doesn’t mean that it isn’t there. When water damage goes unnoticed or neglected, a whole host of issues can come along. Water damage often leads to mold growth, which can cause structural and health problems. Obviously, these will want to be avoided, so it’s important to know where to look for issues. 

The first place to start looking for potential water damage is the inside of our homes. Clearly, water isn’t meant to be in most places in our homes, so when it is out of place, that is where the issues begin. With it being hidden, it can often be forgotten about, so where does one look?

Around The Windows

When windows are improperly installed or sealed, rain can make it through the frames and cracks and into the walls. Moreover, if an A/C unit is installed in a window, water can pool underneath. Window frames and sills that have damaged paint, cracked or peeling, can allow this water to seep within and damage the wood. Spongy wood is a sign that the windows are improperly sealed or A/C units are leaking. 

Drywall

Drywall is unfortunately very absorbent and will take on the lasting effects of water damage. If drywall gets wet or damp in any way, paper backing becomes saturated and begins to swell. Additionally, the panel will become almost spongy to the touch and lose its structural integrity. Typically the drywall will have to be replaced at this point. On the off chance that it is salvageable, it will take at least 3 days to dry out completely. 

Drywall that has been affected by water damage will typically begin to change in color, texture, and integrity. It will become darker in color, usually yellowish or brownish, and soft and spongy to the touch. It can also begin to smell musty as well.

Behind and Beneath Appliances and Fixtures

There are many devices that we use in the modern day that run water within them. Appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators are notorious for water damage. The water damage they cause is in places that we don’t see day to day, so it is often missed. Typically, a line will break behind it, causing a leak that may go unnoticed for long periods of time. 

In addition, sinks, tubs, and toilets are also extremely common causes for water damage. The pipes that carry water to and from these fixtures will often leak. On top of that, poor sealing maintenance can also cause water to leak into areas it shouldn’t be. Watching for spongy areas and musty smells can help to notice when problems are occurring. 

Water damage can occur at any time when we least expect it. Because of that, it’s really important to keep an eye out for any potential leaks and out-of-place water. However, no matter how you prepare, sometimes accidents happen. There are professionals in San Marcos that are readily available to help you at Restoration 1. The experts will be able to rid your home of any water damage and bring it back to its original state.