How Can I Check My Home for Water Leaks and Damage?

We finally got some much-needed rain this past weekend, but maybe that revealed some not-so-great repairs that need to be made in your home. Water leaks and damage can be caused by a few different things (high levels of moisture and humidity, HVAC issues, leaky pipes, roof problems, and more), but we want to give you a list of what to look for so you can protect your home before a problem begins.

-Check for signs of moisture: Obviously, those tell-tale brown (or any discolored) spots on floors, ceilings, or walls are signs of a problem. If the leak is near a bathroom and you suspect a plumbing issue, check toilet seals, rings, and caulking, as those wear down over time. Condensation is a key indicator of moisture, so check your window sills for any cracks, check behind large pieces of furniture, and look in your closets (especially rarely used areas of your home) for signs of mold or dampness.

-Mold: Black or brown spots can indicate mold, which tells you that there’s extra moisture you need to take care of.

-Warped floors: If you have a spot on your floor that’s buckling or warped, you may want to check for additional water damage in that area of your home. Baseboards can also be warped or swollen. Damp carpet is also a major indication of water damage. Feeling any spongy floors, particularly in the bathroom? That’s also a sign of water damage.

-Water bill: Does your water bill seem unusually high? That could be a sign of a leak or plumbing problem.

-Drainage problems: Is water pooling in your yard or near your home’s foundation? This could lead to moisture problems in the lower levels of your home.

-Loose tiles: If you see loose tiles in the bathroom, that is often an indicator of a plumbing issue. 

-Ventilation: Does your bathroom have a ventilation fan, and does it work? When was the last time it was cleaned? You should also have one installed in your kitchen–excess moisture from cooking can build up in the room over time.

-Water heater maintenance: When was the last time you had your water heater checked? If you see any rust spots on the tank, this could mean your water heater has a leak behind the system. 

If you need repair from water damage, such as new windows, floors, drywall, painting, and more, Hunter Handyman Services is here to help. Give us a call at (815) 780-7884 for more information and a free estimate.