SERVPRO recognizes the 7 signs of hidden water damage

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The SERVPRO blog shares the usual signs of hidden water damage to help homeowners recognize them and take timely action. 

7 signs of hidden water damage

Flooding and leakage are visible signs of water damage that can be immediately arrested before they turn into major water damage events. However, several hidden water damage incidents go unnoticed for a long time and are discovered when the damage is too massive. SERVPRO, a water damage restoration company in Hurst-Euless-Bedford, identifies some signs that can alert homeowners to hidden water damage and prevent the need for extensive restoration. 

1. Mold Growth

Green, white or brown spots are a sure shot sign of mold. In the presence of standing water for over 48 hours, mold grows and multiplies swiftly, often in the seams of ceilings and floors that are hidden from view. Homeowners who intend to undertake a DIY mold remediation project must review the Texas Mold Assessment and Remediation Rules (TMARR) to understand what the process entails. TMARR is also a reliable resource to find a Texas-licensed Mold Remediation Contractor that can take care of the mold remediation process.

Mold growth must be addressed by a professional mold remediation company like SERVPRO to prevent any health effects. A professional team will have the latest equipment and know-how of the protocol that is necessary for safe and efficient mold removal. 

2. Musty smells

Those strange musty odors are indicative of mold growth due to excess moisture, poor ventilation, and darkness. It is crucial to identify the source of the smell and remove the mold growth with help of a professional team at the earliest. Left unaddressed for too long, the hidden mold growth or moisture can cause adverse health effects. 

3. Peeling walls

When moisture is hidden in drywalls, it causes the paint and wallpaper adhesion to the drywall and sheetrock to weaken, flake, and bubble up. This ruins the aesthetic appeal of the home but more importantly is a sign of hidden water damage that entails severe consequences if not addressed swiftly.  

4. Stains and Discoloration

A leaky roof or leaking pipes behind walls can cause discoloration of walls or stains that can be aesthetically unappealing. It is advised to address the source of the leak instead of painting over the stains to avoid bigger water disasters later. 

5. Warped Floors, Walls, and Ceilings

Wood, drywall, and other hard yet porous surfaces have a high absorption capacity and can begin to buckle and warp as they become saturated with moisture. With the structural integrity of walls severely compromised, homeowners are at risk. Therefore, any warping or creaking in walls or floors must be investigated for hidden water damage and repaired at the earliest.  

6. Hike in Utility Bills

During certain months, water bills are expected to rise. But anything out of ordinary bills may indicate possible hidden leaks. If homeowners have a general idea of their monthly water bills and usage trend, they can easily spot an unusual bill. These anomalies are signs of a potential water damage problem.  

7. Water Under the Sink

A little moisture under the sink is not extraordinary. But a continuous drip or leak is a sign of an underlying plumbing issue. Homeowners must inspect their plumbing fixtures regularly for any hidden water damage and avoid a full-blown water damage event.

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Hurst-Euless-Bedford is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Hurst, Euless, Bedford, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill-up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For water damage restoration services, contact Team Shaw of Hurst-Euless-Bedford today at (817) 595-0004 or e-mail at office@SERVPROheb.com