Signs of Hidden Water Damage & How to Prevent Costly Repairs

Water damage is a homeowner’s worst nightmare. It stays hidden with easy-to-miss signs until it becomes a costly and apparent problem. But hidden water damage is more than just some unsightly spots on your walls; it can compromise your home’s structural integrity, too! 

Let’s take a look at what hidden water damage really is, the earliest signs to spot, and what to do once you do.

What is Hidden Water Damage?

Hidden water damage typically refers to water damage in a building in places that isn’t apparent. It can be within the walls, behind the paint, under flooring, and other murky areas. In most cases, you won’t be able to tell if your home is suffering from hidden water damage unless you know what to look for. 

Early Signs of Hidden Water Damage

Since spotting hidden water damage is a race against time, some early signs should sound alarms as soon as they’re noticed. They are:

1. Unusually High Water Bill

When you receive a water bill that is unusually high for the first time, it may not seem like a big deal. But this is one of the first signs that something is wrong with your piping. Check for any leaks and damage around the areas where pipes go through the walls. If you can’t find anything unusual but are sure you didn’t use extra water, call a professional for a thorough examination.

2. Mold Spots in Wood or Drywall

Let’s get one thing clear—mold should never be a common occurrence in houses. If you have mold spots on the drywall or in the wood fittings, there is definitely water damage in your home’s structure. Mold grows in damp environments–water damage gives it the perfect breeding ground. Also, if you notice mold growing in your home, don’t wait to call a professional since it is extremely harmful to your family’s health.

3. Peeling or Bubbling Paint/Wallpaper

When water leaks into your home’s walls, it often tries to come out through porous material. That’s why peeling or bubbling paint and wallpaper is a tell-tale sign of water damage. It might seem like your wall decor has expanded or has air trapped behind it. In extreme cases, you might notice that the paint has started to crack and chip in places with more damage.

4. Musty Odors in Well- Ventilated Rooms

Hidden water damage creates a damp environment in your home that breeds bacteria and fungi. This causes a classic musty odor in certain areas, even in the most ventilated rooms. Your home shouldn’t smell off–and if it does–you need to have a professional look at it. 

5. Warped or Stained Flooring 

Just like peeling or bubbling paint and wallpaper, hidden water damages tend to warp and stain your flooring. This is especially common if you have wooden flooring since it absorbs water and swells up significantly. If you notice staining, it should occur in patches or moldy dots along your flooring. 

How To Prevent Costly Repairs For Water Damage

Whether you’ve started to notice the signs of water damage or just want to be on the side, there are some steps you can take to prevent costly measures down the road:

• Schedule regular inspections with your local repair company to ensure your home’s structure is in good condition.
• Keep a close eye on your water bill so you can catch any leakage issues before they damage the walls and flooring.
• Make sure your home’s windows and doors are properly sealed since rainwater can also cause damage over time.
• Consider installing leakage detection devices on major pipes and water connections to keep an eye on them.

Modernistic is Michigan’s top choice for residential water damage restoration with decades of experience in the industry. If you suspect your home’s structure has been compromised, give us a call at 800-609-1000 or Contact us to schedule an appointment!