Signs of Water Damage

7/18/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Jacksonville Beach/Ponte Vedra advises how to look for signs of water damage.

Water damage is a huge hazard and happens a lot more often than you might realize. It can happen to a home, old or new, at any time and can result in many different problems. By recognizing the earliest signs of water damage, you can help protect your investment as well as the health and well being of your family. Here are some tips to identifying water damage:

Visible Wet Spots

One of the easiest signs to spot are wet spots in your walls or ceilings. These usually indicate fairly recent water damage, appearing in as little as 24 hours.

Streaks of Color on the Walls

Yellow, brown, or white streaks on the walls often indicate older water damage. These streaks can be a sign that you have a leak that will recur, perhaps after a thunderstorm.

Cracking Walls

If your walls or ceiling are made of sheetrock, cracking or peeling may be a sign of water damage, but not always. They could also be signs of the home settling, so it’s best to get an expert to check it out.

Bubbling Paint

The bubbling occurs due to moisture that has seeped through the walls and damaged the layers of paint.

Soft Walls

Soft drywall or plaster is another sign of water damage in your home. If wet, pressing on the wall may leave and indentation.

Running Water in Your Walls

If you hear water running when none of the faucets are in use, there’s a good chance that you have some kind of leak.

Musty or Damp Odors

You might notice a musty scent near the walls that have had water damage. Sometimes the smell will appear before water spots become visible.

Higher Water Bills

If your water bill has recently spiked, you may have a leaking pipe somewhere, and that can turn into water damage.

Mold or Mildew

Mold or mildew growing on your walls or ceiling is a clear sign that there’s too much moisture in that area. Often, you need a professional to pinpoint the cause and remove the mold or mildew.

Leaking Roof

If water is dripping into your home when it rains, you most likely have a roof leak, and you need to get the roof repaired asap, then tend to the possible water damage inside.

If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it’s best to have a professional inspection to determine the cause and remediate the damage. SERVPRO of Jacksonville Beach/Ponte Vedra is a trusted leader in the restoration industry. We are experts in repairing water damage for residents in the Jacksonville and St Johns County beaches area. Our team of highly trained technicians are dedicated to responding quickly to any size disaster. We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs.

For additional information about our company, visit our website or call us at 904-246-6118.