5 Common Areas For Water Damage
Whether a disaster occurs or there’s a leak in your home or business, water damage can happen at any time. Any appliance using a water line or plumbing has the potential to leak and cause water damage. Standing water, or hidden leaks behind the walls, under the floor and in the ceiling can lead to mold growth and even structural issues to your home. These are the most common areas in which water leaks occur, causing water damage.
Roof / Ceiling
A leaky roof, at once or over time, can cause damage to both the structure and ceilings in your home. A ceiling stains when damaged by water which is a telltale sign there’s a problem. But, this is the last sign of damage. The sooner water damage in these areas is addressed, the less of an issue it will be. If left alone, water damage will lead to mold and mildew which can cause respiratory and other health issues in people and animals. Any electrical wiring exposed to water can short and pose a fire risk. And since many homes are built with wood and wood products, homes can become weakened and rotted and even collapse.
Kitchen Leaks
Accidents happen in the kitchen every day, but even a spilled glass of water can cause water damage if not cleaned immediately. A water line to the ice maker in the fridge and/or dishwasher may wear out over time and leak. A cracked refrigerator drain pan may lead to water damage from leaking water. A damaged pan needs to be replaced to avoid future water damage.
Bathroom Leaks
Toilets clog and overflow, faucets leak, and tubs and showers that aren’t sealed properly cause water damage in the bathroom. Long showers without adequate ventilation produce and trap steam and condensation, which causes water damage.
Washing Machine Leaks
From a washer that overflows with water to a burst pipe, the laundry area is a common culprit for water damage. Where a puddle of water is found around the washer will tell you where the leak is coming from. Top load washers will leak from the front when the overflow tube is clogged or tilted, and from the back if the manufacturer’s drain plug wasn’t removed after installation or if hose connections are loose. For front load washers, a puddle in the back means the same as a top load – the hoses are loose. Water in the front likely means the door seal is leaking, while water underneath means the seal between the two internal drums is broken.
Foundation Leaks and Slab Leaks
The foundation of your home is meant to stabilize the structure and keep water out. A landscaping job may be aesthetically pleasing, but it can also cause water damage if not done properly. As soil moves, it creates pressure against the foundation, which can eventually crack or bow. Then there’s the foundation damage done by water runoff from a lawn that wasn’t properly graded. If your home was built on concrete, water coming from it means a slab leak. Mildew and mold under carpets, an unusually high water bill, and/or you can hear water running when all water is turned off are common signs you have a water leak.
Water Leak Detection
Water leaks are generally easy to identify in a home or business. Common signs that your home or business has a water leak includes wet spots, warped areas or discoloration stains on ceilings, floors, walls, and woodwork. Outdoor water leaks are usually identified by soft, wet puddles in the grass or a depression in the ground. Another telltale sign of a water leak is a rapid or gradual increase of your water bill when water usage has remained the same as months prior.
If you notice any of these signs or you suspect your property has a water leak, contact Maven Construction Group. Our leak detection services are second to none, and we have the knowledge, tools and license to properly — and quickly — detect and fix water leaks.
Water Damage Inspection
It’s easy to assume that the signs of water damage in your residential or commercial property will be apparent. But water from heavy rainfall, a flood, or a leak can quickly disappear before you have time to recognize the issue. If you suspect your structure has water damage, don’t wait — contact us right away. We are available day or night for water damage inspections — we even handle the restoration and reconstruction after extensive water damage to homes and businesses. Common signs of water damage include the following:
- Mold or mildew on walls, corners, or the ceiling
- Buckling or cracking in the floors
- Blistering and/or crumbling paint
- Musty smells or lingering odors
- Water spots that range from light to deep rust in color
- Bulge or concave in the ceiling or walls
