Hidden Leaks: Signs and Symptoms
If you want to prevent severe structural damage to your home or business, it is essential to ensure you get any noticeable water damage checked out and fixed right away. The downside to leaks is that not all of them are as apparent as if you have a dripping leak from your faucets or pipes. Sometimes they are concealed behind your walls, in your ceilings, or even underneath your floors. To help you identify these leaks, we have created a list of signs/symptoms you should watch for within your space. So, what do you look for?
What are the signs of hidden leaks?
The Growth of Mold
It is a clear sign that you have a leak if you find mold within your home. The presence of moisture is necessary for mold to grow. If you are seeing the mold growing to a larger area, you likely have a leak somewhere in that vicinity.
The Smell of Mildew
Mildew is a fungus that creates a musty smell. Like mold, it needs moisture to grow and live. If you start to notice this smell, there is a chance you have a leak.
Staining on Walls or Ceilings
If your walls or ceilings have any brownish or yellowish stains, it is a sign of water damage. These stains are usually caused by water that has been sitting for some time and has had the chance to seep in and cause discoloration.
Sagging Ceilings
If you have a sagging ceiling, it is an indication that there is water damage. The extra weight from the water can cause the ceiling to cave in or sag. If you see any cracks or holes in your ceiling, it is also a sign of water damage.
If you experience any of these signs or symptoms, contact a professional to come and inspect your space for hidden leaks. It is important to have these fixed as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your property.
Discoloration in Walls or on Ceiling
You can expose your walls and ceilings to excess moisture when you do not properly seal your sinks, bathtubs, or anywhere else where dispensing water is located. Overexposure to moisture can cause your ceiling and walls to become stained or discolored. There is likely a leak inside or over the area causing the stains when there is no contact with visible water.
Peeling or Blistering Wallpaper or paint
Inspect the paint or wallpaper of your home to see if it has started blistering or peeling or if you think there is a hidden leak. If there is any build-up of moisture in your wall it will cause these signs to appear. A blister can arise anywhere along the surface, including the substrate and the top two coats of paint. Although it may not be a leak causing these issues, it is incredibly important to stay on top of any problems you notice as there will be moisture present to cause your wallpaper or paint to react this way.
So, how to fix the leaks?
When noticing the signs above, it is in your best interest to get the situation dealt with as fast as possible. When dealing with a hidden leak, it is recommended to get professional plumbing technicians like our talented staff at Irish Plumber. Our dedicated technicians will be able to use their skills and tools to locate any leaks or moisture for you in the least intrusive manner possible and then fix the leaks.
Decide what is right for you
You can trust The Irish Plumber to handle any leak no matter how bad it is. Get your leak fixed quickly by calling us at (613) 294-0864 or emailing us at [email protected].
