Force 1 Restoration Services - Force 1 Restoration talks about the 7 signs of hidden water damage

South Windsor, United States - December 31, 2021 / Force 1 Restoration Services /

7 signs of hidden water damage

A hidden water leak in a basement, slow leaks in roofs, and a dripping faucet can slowly destroy a property beyond repair. This hidden water damage is a huge concern as it remains undetected causing extensive damage. Force 1 Restoration shares how homeowners and business owners can catch the signs of hidden water damage in time to prevent massive damages and restoration costs.

Water damage becomes visible through discoloration, texture change, and odors. Knowing where to look is a challenge. Here are a few things to watch out for when trying to identify hidden water damage:

1. Mold Growth

In the event of water damage that remains unaddressed for over 48 hours, mold spores grow and multiply swiftly, especially in the hidden seams of ceilings and floors. Any green, black, white, or brown spots must be taken very seriously as these are mold spores that can lead to many health effects. Before taking up a DIY project, homeowners must consult a Connecticut-licensed mold abatement contractor. The Connecticut Guidelines for Mold Abatement Contractors can be very useful when seeking a mold abatement contractor. The guidelines also offers information to the general public on indoor environmental quality and mold abatement.

A professional mold abatement company like Force 1 Restoration can take care of this problem by employing specialized equipment to detect and remove mold hidden in crooks and crevices. They will also address the root cause of the mold growth to avoid any recurrences.

2. Musty smells

Musty odors are a result of moisture, lack of air circulation, and darkness. This odor occurs even in the absence of visible mold growth. Certain drywall materials have sponge-like characteristics that absorb moisture, offering a perfect environment for mold growth that remains hidden from view. However, just masking an unpleasant odor in the property does not help. The source of the smell must be identified and addressed. All the hidden moisture must be removed and dried at the earliest to prevent any more water damage.

3. Peeling Paint and Wallpaper

Hidden moisture in walls causes the paint and wallpaper to lose their adhesion to drywall and sheetrock. The flaking on walls and bubbling up of wallpaper ruin the aesthetic appeal of the walls and is a strong indication of impending water damage that can worsen if not addressed.

4. Stains and Discoloration

Water-stained ceilings and drywall are a sign of water damage that should not be neglected. Undetected water damage can cause stained and spotted walls, scarred carpets, and even rusted pipes and/or water heaters. The affected area may turn yellow, brown, or even copper. Painting over these stains can worsen the water damage and increase the damage repair costs.

5. Warped Floors, Walls, and Ceilings

Water can seep into the wood, drywall, and other hard yet porous surfaces. When these materials become saturated with moisture, they begin to buckle and warp. This can severely compromise the structural integrity of the property making it very dangerous for any inhabitants. This hidden water damage can prove to be very costly.

6. Sudden Hike in Utility Bills

When the temperatures drop, a few jumps in utility bills are to be expected. But any other unusual increases in water bills suggest there is a hidden leak somewhere in the building. Property owners must monitor their monthly water bills closely to identify the usual trends in usage and catch any suspicious changes in the bill trends.

7. Water Damage Under the Sink

Plumbing fixtures are not inspected often enough by property owners leading to leaks that remain undetected. A little moisture under a kitchen or bathroom sink is not a red flag but a continuous drip or leak is. Immediate action must be taken in such situations.

Why Force 1 Restoration Services?

The water damage restoration experts at Force 1 Restoration Services can quickly arrive at the damaged residence with the personnel, equipment, and training to begin the water removal, drying, and restoration process. The team of professionals can handle the claims process and total restoration project from beginning to end for its clients.