Detecting Water Damage

By Author: Leo Nov
Total Articles: 883
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The power of water is usually underestimated in its potential to damage. A clogged drain and even a small crack in a water heater can, over time, cause extensive damage. To avoid further damage, contact a flood cleanup professional as soon as you detect signs for water damage.

Structural Indicators
There are structural signs that can indicate that water damage is occurs in building materials. Identifying these signs and detecting water problems on time will prevent replacing building materials and a possible need for reconstruction.
Flooring
Wood flooring absorbs water and swell. If you see the floor buckling, you may have water inside the wood floor. Damaged wood floors are harder to detect when the saturated wood is the sub-flooring especially if it is covered with carpets.
The high-risk areas for floor water damage are around the dishwasher, and the refrigerator (especially if your model has an icemaker) because these appliances combine both a water supply line and a drain line that can leak.
Check the floor around the toilet and in front of the tub or shower, where water damage can occur ...
... from the day-to-day use of the bathroom such as splashing, unsealed shower curtains, or from people, dripping on the floor.
Windows and Doors
Water stains around windows or at the bottom of exterior doors indicate that water is penetrating the structure from outside.
Ceiling
Water stains at the joint between the ceiling and an exterior wall could be a sign for a possible roof leak. Unless you have water lines that run in the attic, water stains anywhere else along the ceiling, indicates a possible roof leak. The location of the stain does not necessarily indicate that the leak is right above it as water may travel in inside the ceiling.
Take Action
When recovering from water damage, a prompt response is a key element in containing the damage and regaining control over the situation. Water extraction is the first step in drying your home or business. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
Leo Nov is an editorial staff member of RestorationSOS.com, a leading service provider for water damage cleanups. To learn more about water damage and flooded basement, visit RestorationSOS.com