Signs of Water Damage You Should Never Ignore

Water damage can be a serious issue that homeowners often overlook until it's too late. Ignoring water damage can lead to costly repairs, as well as health issues from mold and mildew. Knowing the signs of water damage can help you catch it early and prevent further damage. Here are seven signs of water damage you should never ignore.

Brown Spots on Ceilings and Walls

One of the most common signs of water damage is brown spots on ceilings and walls. These spots are often caused by water seeping through the roof or a leaky pipe. If you notice brown spots on your ceiling or walls, it's important to investigate the source of the water damage. Ignoring these spots can lead to mold and mildew growth, as well as structural damage.

Musty Odors and Unpleasant Smells

Musty odors and unpleasant smells are another sign of water damage. These odors are often caused by mold and mildew growth in areas where water damage has occurred. If you notice a musty odor in your home, it's important to investigate the source of the smell. Ignoring these odors can lead to health issues, as well as further damage to your home.

Peeling or Bubbling Paint and Wallpaper

Peeling or bubbling paint and wallpaper are often caused by water damage. Water can seep through walls and cause the paint and wallpaper to peel or bubble. If you notice peeling or bubbling paint or wallpaper, it's important to investigate the source of the water damage. Ignoring these signs can lead to further damage to your walls and ceilings.

Warped or Buckling Floors

Warped or buckling floors are a sign of water damage. Water can seep through floors and cause them to warp or buckle. If you notice warped or buckling floors, it's important to investigate the source of the water damage. Ignoring these signs can lead to structural damage, as well as health issues from mold and mildew growth.

Visible Mold or Mildew

Visible mold or mildew is a clear sign of water damage. Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments and can grow quickly in areas where water damage has occurred. If you notice visible mold or mildew in your home, it's important to investigate the source of the water damage. Ignoring these signs can lead to health issues, as well as further damage to your home.

Stains or Discoloration on Floors

Stains or discoloration on floors are often caused by water damage. Water can seep through floors and cause stains or discoloration. If you notice stains or discoloration on your floors, it's important to investigate the source of the water damage. Ignoring these signs can lead to further damage to your floors and potentially cause health issues from mold and mildew growth.

High Humidity and Moisture Levels

High humidity and moisture levels are a sign of water damage. If your home has high humidity or moisture levels, it can lead to mold and mildew growth. It can also cause structural damage to your home. If you notice high humidity or moisture levels in your home, it's important to investigate the source of the water damage. Ignoring these signs can lead to health issues, as well as further damage to your home.

The key takeaway here is that water damage is a serious issue that should never be ignored. Knowing the signs of water damage can help you catch it early and prevent further damage to your home. If you notice any of the signs mentioned in this article, it's important to investigate the source of the water damage and take action to prevent further damage.

Sources

ServiceMaster Restore: Top Signs of Water Damage at Home
The Spruce: How to Prevent Water Damage to Your Home
HomeAdvisor: Basic Steps for a Waterproof Basement
NIH: Mold and Your Health