Recognizing Water Damage in Your Home
While water damage can be hard to detect, there are some telltale signs that you should look out for. If you notice a damp or musty smell without seeing any visible signs of damage, then you may have water damage behind the walls or under the floors. Mold, discoloration, and rotting wood are obvious signs of water damage. If you notice any of these, you need to contact a water damage specialist as soon as possible.
Find the Source
Water damage won’t go away on its own. If there’s any mold growth, then make a note of where it’s most concentrated. Contact an inspector to find the cause of the damage. There might be cracks in your foundation, or you might have a leaky pipe. Are there any standing bodies of water close to your foundation? How is your property’s drainage? If you’ve noticed water damage in your home’s upper levels, then you should have an inspector take a look at your roof.
Beware of Mold Growth
Once mold takes root, it can spread very quickly. According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control, exposure to mold can lead to severe allergic reactions and breathing problems. On top of that, it can even cause or worsen asthma in children. Mold in your home is terrible for your health, and it can rot your home’s materials. You should contact a mold removal specialist immediately if you suspect any growth.
Structural Integrity
Water can cause your wooden walls, floors, and support beams to expand and contract. On top of that, prolonged dampness will cause the wood in your home to rot, weakening your home’s structural integrity. If left unchecked, a rotting support beam could collapse and potentially harm your family. By reaching out to a qualified water damage specialist, you can stop the damage from getting worse.
Prevent Future Water Damage in Your Home
Some simple preventative measures can potentially save you a lot of time and money. Water damage is often found around foundations, so you should regularly scan the perimeter of your home. If you notice any cracks, then you need to have them repaired immediately. Any standing water or dips near your foundation are cause for concern. When it rains, that water needs to drain somewhere, so it’s necessary to have functioning gutters and good drainage. Otherwise, rainwater will collect near your foundation and seep inside. Your roof, windows, walls, and doors should also be checked regularly for signs of deterioration. Even if you don’t have a reason to look for water damage, consistently inspecting your home is a good habit to get into.
Nico Home Inspections provides home inspections to Southeast Florida. Contact us to schedule our services.