3 Signs You Have Water Damage in Your Home

Water damage in Florida homes stems from many sources, including storms, burst pipes, and malfunctioning appliances. It often takes you by surprise and can quickly spread into your ceilings, floors, or walls with subtle signs that are easy to overlook. If not dealt with promptly, water damage leads to wood rot, structural problems, mold growth, and further expenses down the road. Let’s look at three key indicators that could mean water damage is present in your home, so you know when to call in a pro.

1. Musty Smells & Odors

One of the earliest and most common signs of water damage is a musty smell. It indicates the presence of moisture, mold, or mildew, even if signs of damage aren’t visible yet. If there’s an ongoing musty smell in certain areas of your home, like basements, attics, or closets, water has probably crept its way into walls, floors, or ceilings. If you’re getting any unexplained odors, it’s time to call in a professional. They will be able to identify hidden moisture sources, prevent further water damage, and ensure the problem is safely and properly addressed.

2. Water Stains

As you may have guessed, this is one of the clearest and most noticeable signs of water damage. These stains usually take the form of discolored patches, rings, or streaks on walls, ceilings, or floors, and they’re usually a yellow or brownish shade. You’ll typically find these marks near windows, under roofs, or where plumbing is hidden behind walls, and all likely point to an undetected leak.

Take action against water stains as soon as you spot them. Not all stains are cause for concern, but water damage is obvious at first glance, and some may be hidden behind walls or floors. If you notice any strange discoloration or staining, especially in corners or where ceilings meet walls, contact a skilled professional for a proper diagnosis.

3. Mold

Mold is one of the more concerning signs of water damage, and it doesn’t always show up where you expect it. It’s tricky. Mold can appear as black, green, or white spots on walls or ceilings, and it can hide in places you can’t easily see, like inside walls or under floors. If the mold isn’t easily detectable, a musty odor or sudden influx of allergy symptoms can also signal its presence.

Mold can spread quickly and lead to hefty structural damage while also posing health risks or escalating preexisting conditions. If you suspect mold, we can’t emphasize enough how important it is to get a professional involved. They’ll be able to remove the mold and address any underlying moisture problems to keep it from coming back.

Why It’s Important To Address Water Damage Quickly

Addressing water damage ASAP is crucial for preventing further damage and minimizing the risk of mold growth. Even after standing water is addressed, moisture can still linger in walls, floors, and ceilings. The longer it’s left as is, the more extensive and costly the damage becomes. The trapped moisture weakens structural elements of your home, like drywall and flooring, leading to warped wood and peeling paint. Taking quick action means you can stop further damage to your property by stopping the spread of water and mitigating the current situation. If not, that water only weakens materials and creates the ideal environment for mold to grow.

Call United Water Restoration Group for 24/7 Water Restoration Services

With one of the fastest response rates of any company in the area, United Water Restoration Group’s water damage restoration services are available to South and Southwest Florida homeowners 24/7/365. We accept ALL insurances and will handle every aspect of your water restoration process, ensuring all your needs and questions are met and answered to your satisfaction. Our technicians are highly educated and experienced and will guide you through the process with a personal touch, ensuring a hassle-free restoration process for you and your home.

When you need premium water damage restoration services in South and Southwest Florida, contact the experts at United Water Restoration Group.