Water damage to your home is one of the most common problems homeowners face, especially in the winter months in New England. It can happen at any point and result in different problems, including structural damage. Without water damage cleanup a new problem can form, mold which can quickly grow in areas of leaks or water damage.
However, there is a good chance you can catch it before it causes problems. 90% of water damage can be avoided with proper care and maintenance. The key is knowing what to look for and the common causes of water damage.
However, there is a good chance you can catch it before it causes problems. 90% of water damage can be avoided with proper care and maintenance. The key is knowing what to look for and the common causes of water damage.
Signs of Water Damage Inside Your Home
- Water stains
- Dark rings.
- Discoloration.
- Peeling, bubbling, or cracking of paint or wallpaper.
Now that we know what to look for, it's important to note why taking action is needed. Here are some keys to understanding how water damage impacts drywall.
Signs of Water Damage on the Outside of Your Home
Another place to look for signs of water damage is the exterior of your home. Here, you can see potential causes of damage or leaks before they worsen.
- Are there any downspouts that divert water away from the house? Are there gutters? Look to make sure both are intact and properly attached to your home. It’s a good way to catch any minor leaks or clogs that might cause problems later on.
- Check the roof! Are there missing or cracked roof shingles? Does it appear cracked or thin in some areas? This is especially important in New England homes that experience lots of snow or heavy weather. These can all lead to water damage or leakage.
- Examine your exterior doors and window frames. Is there any separation with exterior windows or door frames? Any soft spots in the window frames? This can indicate a spot for potential leaks!
Common Spots for Water Damage
Knowing the most common spots for water damage can offer a sense of relief, or even protect you later on from danger. The spots where we see water damage most often are in attics and basements.
Your attic is more likely to have water damage that builds up over time as a result of leaks in the roof. If your home is older, keep a special eye on your roof to make sure it is properly maintained and resists severe weather. Focus on looking around or near chimneys, roof vents, where roof planes join, or where the walls meet for any discoloration, dampness, or warping in the attic. This can help you react quickly to signs of leaks or potential problems later on.
Water damage in the basement is a very common problem for homeowners, caused by leaking water heaters, a foundation leak, flood damage, washing machine overflow, and more. During the winter months or heavy storms, water can build up and cause eventual damage. Watch out for discoloration in corners or near pipes, as well as the damp smell that comes with water damage.
Your attic is more likely to have water damage that builds up over time as a result of leaks in the roof. If your home is older, keep a special eye on your roof to make sure it is properly maintained and resists severe weather. Focus on looking around or near chimneys, roof vents, where roof planes join, or where the walls meet for any discoloration, dampness, or warping in the attic. This can help you react quickly to signs of leaks or potential problems later on.
Water damage in the basement is a very common problem for homeowners, caused by leaking water heaters, a foundation leak, flood damage, washing machine overflow, and more. During the winter months or heavy storms, water can build up and cause eventual damage. Watch out for discoloration in corners or near pipes, as well as the damp smell that comes with water damage.
Contact Us Today
Water damage or flooding can be a scary moment for any homeowner. While you might be tempted to fix these signs of water damage yourself, consider contacting a professional instead. These signs can be just the tip of the iceberg, and you’ll be treating the symptom and not the cause.
If you see any of these signs of water damage, don’t hesitate to call in a professional. We will treat the symptoms AND the cause of water damage in your home. Call us today at 518-608-6242 or fill out the form below to get in touch.
If you see any of these signs of water damage, don’t hesitate to call in a professional. We will treat the symptoms AND the cause of water damage in your home. Call us today at 518-608-6242 or fill out the form below to get in touch.