The term water damage makes people think of floods and water gushing, broken pipes, and leaky roofs. In reality, water damage can be a slow process that is not easily visible always. Walls have pipes that are hidden within. This is done so the exposed pipes don't look unappealing. However, if a small leak or hole develops in a pipe, water can seep out quietly and unnoticed for a while. This undetected moisture can lead to mold growth and water damage. When water damage is detected late, the water damage restoration process can cost more.
Weak plumbing, leaky pipes, frozen pipes that burst, or metal pipe corrosion can all cause leaks in walls. Detecting these leaks as early as possible is vital to limit the extent of water damage. Suncoast Contractors Emergency Services Inc. is a Florida-based company that provides water damage restoration in Boynton Beach. This article by Suncoast Contractors lists some tips on finding water leaks in walls.
Signs Of Water Leakage In Walls
1. Damp Spots
The dampness in walls of buildings where there is no ongoing construction work indicates a leak. Since water can move down a leaking pipe and be absorbed into drywall, the wet area need not be the location of the actual leak. If the wall is of stone or concrete, it does not absorb water. So water seeps through the wall, quickly leading to an appearance of sweating.
2. Mold
Moisture creates a favorable environment for mold growth. Mold in areas not usually exposed to water may be due to water leaking from a pipe inside the wall.
3. Peeling Paint and Wallpaper
Bubble-like appearance and peeling paint are indicative of leakage within walls. Water-based paint degenerates when it comes into contact with water for a while. Leaking within walls can lead to the rotting of wooden fittings.
4. Unexpected Increase in Household Water Bills
An increase in the water bill of a home that cannot be accounted for by the consumption pattern or any visible reason may be a sign that there is an undetected leak within the walls.
5. Musty Smell
While leaking within walls may not show externally, there can be a musty odor in the area.
6. Water Pools
Water pooling near a wall that is not from a leaking appliance or any identifiable cause may be from a leak within walls.
7. Dripping Sounds
Even after turning off showers, flushing toilets, or turning off faucets, a persistent dripping sound may be faintly heard when a leak is present within a wall.
8. Discolored Patches
Water leaking within a wall eventually leads to discoloration on the wall. There may be discolored patches that are irregular in appearance. Lighter-looking or washed-out areas showing on walls, wallpaper, or wood may be a sign of water leakage in walls.
Identifying The Location of Leaks In Walls
1. Using Moisture Meters
A moisture meter measures the water content in an area. If a leak is suspected in a wall it can be placed against the wall and it shows the highest reading closest to the leak.
2. Thermal Cameras
Infrared cameras identify hot and cold areas. The area closest to the leak shows as the coldest by the thermal camera. Water damage restoration professionals use such devices.
3. Drywall Is Cut Into
Cutting into drywall is an invasive method when other methods fail to detect the location of a leak in the wall. Water damage restoration companies like Suncoast Contractors Emergency Services Inc. try to use this method as a last resort.
Water damage can be devastating and stressful for homeowners and business owners. So it should be prevented as far as possible by regular maintenance and checks. However, when water damage does happen, it must be handled as soon as possible so that the water damage does not get more complicated. Suncoast Contractors Emergency Services Inc. provides water damage restoration services that are reliable, cost-effective, and efficient. These services are available in the Boynton Beach area. Suncoast Contractors Emergency Services Inc. can be contacted by phone by dialing (561) 316-3989 or emailing suncoastcpr@gmail.com.
