Identifying Hidden Water Damage in Your Home

10/3/2024 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO employee inspects for water moisture in a client's home.

When most homeowners think of water damage, they picture burst pipes, overflowing sinks, or a flooded basement. However, not all water damage is immediately visible. In fact, some of the most destructive water damage is hidden, silently seeping into your home's structure and causing issues that aren't discovered until it's too late. 

Common Areas for Hidden Water Damage:

Hidden water damage can occur in several overlooked spots, such as:

• Behind walls - Leaky pipes or poor seals can allow water to accumulate within the walls, leading to microbial growth and compromising structural integrity. 
• Under flooring - Water trapped beneath tiles or hardwood can cause warping, discoloration, and rot. 
• Behind appliances - Dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators with faulty water connections often leak in hard to see areas. 
• In attics or basements - Roof leaks can slowly damage your attic, while moisture in basements often goes unnoticed until it leads to microbial growth or musty odors. 

Ignoring hidden water damage can lead to severe consequences for homeowners. Over time, the moisture can weaken your homes foundation, damage insulation, and cause wood to rot. Furthermore, it creates an ideal environment for microbial growth, which can not only damage your property but also pose health risks to your family. 

Additionally, water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Hidden water damage near electrical wiring or outlets can result in short circuits, posing a fire hazard. 

How to Inspect Hidden Water Damage: 

• Inspect vulnerable areas - Regularly check attics, basements, and areas behind appliances for any of the signs mentioned above. 
• Use moisture detectors - Moisture detectors can help identify damp spots behind walls or under floors. 
• Contact a professional - At SERVPRO of Charlottesville, we have the tools and expertise to uncover hidden water damage and address it promptly before it becomes a costly issue. 

Without the proper detection, water damage can be a serious issue. SERVPRO of Charlottesville is equipped to handle both minor and extensive water damage.