How to Find Water Leaks Inside a Wall & What to Do About it?
Maintaining the structural integrity of your home is incredibly important. Not only does it keep you safe from the elements, but it also helps improve your home’s curb appeal and value.
One of the most important aspects of home maintenance is making certain that your walls aren’t hosting any hidden water leaks. Left unchecked, these can cause costly property damage and create an environment ripe for mold growth.
So, how can you tell if there is a water leak inside your wall? In this post, we’ll discuss how to find water leaks inside a wall and what to do about them.
5 Signs of a Water Leak in Your Wall
While the best way to identify a water leak in your walls is to hire a professional, there are some tell-tale signs that may indicate a water leak problem. These include:
1. Discoloration on Walls
One of the more obvious signs that you may have a water leak in your wall is discoloration or staining on the walls. This can be indicative of a slow drip that has been going on for some time and is now starting to show its effects.
It is important to note that discoloration does not always indicate a water leak, as it could be the result of other factors, such as humidity or poor ventilation in the room. In any case, ignoring the problem could lead to mold growth and other serious issues. So, it’s best to call in a professional for further inspection.
2. Peeling Paint or Wallpaper
Another sign of a water leak is peeling paint or wallpaper. This usually occurs in areas where the moisture levels have been too high for too long, allowing the paint and wallpaper to become loose and peel away from the wall. In some cases, this may be accompanied by bulging, discoloration, and other signs of water damage.
If you notice any of these signs, getting your home inspected by a professional as soon as possible is important. Leaving the issue untreated could lead to severe foundation damage and other costly repairs.
3. Musty Odors
If you notice an odd, musty smell coming from a certain area of your home, it could be a sign that you have a water leak. This smell is usually caused by moisture seeping into the walls and creating an environment for mold and mildew growth.
By the time you start to notice this smell, it’s likely that your indoor air quality has been compromised. Mold spores can travel through your home’s air ducts and cause respiratory irritations, skin rashes, and a host of other health issues. So, along with plumbing repairs, you may need to invest in air quality testing and remediation.
4. Unusual Sounds
Another tell-tale sign of a water leak is an unusual sound coming from a certain area of the wall. This could be anything from a thumping, tapping, or humming to a consistently running or dripping sound. Any of these sounds could be a sign of a water leak, especially if it’s coming from a specific region of the wall.
If you hear any strange sounds coming from your walls, it’s important to contact a professional immediately to investigate and determine the cause. Letting the problem go untreated could lead to costly repairs down the line.
To read more, check out the original article published on Guaranteed Property & Mold Inspection.
