After the Storm: 11 Signs of Water Damage in Your Home

Storm season is difficult for any homeowner. In fact, homeowners claim more than $10,000 on average from a single incident of water damage.

After a storm, it’s important to identify signs of water damage. It’s a crucial step in recovering and keeping your family safe.

Once you identify the signs, it’s necessary to contact a professional contractor. This kind of damage is potentially dangerous and needs to be evaluated by an expert.

To learn about 11 common signs of water damage, check out the list below.

Read Also:

• Detect the Symptoms of Water Damage and Rectify Them Before They Worsen Further
• Wireline Services: Why Instant Fire Damage Recovery Is Essential?
• How to Assess the Damage to Your Roof after a Storm?
• Tips to Prevent Roof Leaks and Water Damage

11 Signs of Water Damage

Signs of water damage may be much more serious than they appear. They can lead to bigger issues, like structural damage and even dangerous mold. Check for these signs if you’re recently experienced a major storm.

1. Missing Shingles

Before you inspect the interior of the home, take stock of the exterior. Are there missing shingles or flashing? This could mean water damage in the attic.

2. Undesirable Smells

Your nose knows. Musty odors in the home may be a sign of mold. Mold can cause serious respiratory illnesses and need to be safely removed by a professional like Surfco Restoration & Construction LLC.

3. Soft Spots

Soft spots indicate weakened wood that’s become spongy from water damage. The structural integrity has been compromised and needs to get repaired as soon as possible.

4. Dark Spots

Dark spots around the home are usually stains from water damage. You’ll need to remedy the source of the water damage before you can deal with the stain itself.

5. Wet Spots

Finding wet spots around the house is not a good sign. These may be small puddles near pipes or appliances. Make sure to stop the source of the leak, which is usually nearby.

6. Excessive Humidity

Naturally, more water in the home can cause higher humidity in the home. Make sure to bring down moisture levels before they cause mold.

7. Rusty Parts

Rusty pipes or appliances are a sign of water damage. Check all around for potential leaks and seal them immediately.

8. Cracking Drywall

Crack drywall is compromised drywall. Large areas may need professional attention, but small areas can be a do-it-yourself project.

9. Gutter Problems

When you check the exterior of your home, don’t forget the gutters and downspouts. If there are any problems with them, they might not direct water away from your home.

10. Water Sounds

You may hear sounds of dripping or running water even when all your faucets and appliances are off. That means there is a leak somewhere. It will take some detective work to find the sources and repair it.

11. Higher Bills

Leaking pipes or appliances can cause your water bill to rise dramatically. Keep an eye on your bill and make sure cost increases aren’t due to other reasons.

Recovering from Water Damage

These 11 signs of water damage are important to know and identify. Take time after any storm to reevaluate your house both inside and outside. Should you find a problem area, make sure to address it immediately.

For more useful homeowner guides, don’t forget to check out the rest of our blog.