Did you know that water damage can happen in your Mansfield home without you even knowing? When we think of water damage we often think of obvious problems like flooding. However, since most of the plumbing in our homes runs inside the walls and ceilings, it is not uncommon for water damage to occur in areas we can’t even see.

Water Damage Cleanup In Mansfield, Ohio

From our water damage cleanup experts, here are some signs of hidden water damage that you should keep an eye out for in your home:

Musty Odors

A musty odor or moldy smell is a common sign that there is water damage. The smell is often strongest in the area where the water damage initially occurred, but can easily spread throughout the home. Musty smells typically mean there is mold growth present, and mold is very dangerous. If you notice a new smell, or the smell becomes stronger, do not wait to get it checked.

Visible Mold Growth

If you can see mold growth, then there is absolutely water where it should not be. Mold thrives where there is a consistent source of moisture, so areas that remain damp for extended periods of time will begin to grow mold. Mold may appear black, blue, green, or gray, and often looks fuzzy. Mold often grows in places we cannot see (which is why hidden water damage is so important to find), and can be found in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements, along floorboards, in attics, really anywhere. Mold poses serious health threats if inhaled or ingested, and should be handled immediately by trained water damage cleanup or mold damage professionals.

Dark Or Discolored Spots On The Walls Or Ceiling

Stains and discoloration are also signs of potential water damage. Most water stains will appear as a yellowish-brown color, and will expand into shapes with irregular borders. Typically, water stains on the walls and ceiling indicate a slow and consistent leak, and can typically be traced to a plumbing fixture or pipe. If you noticed discolored spots in your home, get them checked for water damage.

Changes To Flooring, Ceilings, Or Walls

There are many different things to look for in the walls, floors, and ceilings of our homes when inspecting for water damage. From our water damage cleanup experts, here are some of the most obvious signs of hidden water damage in the structural elements of our homes:

• Warping walls
• Peeling paint of wallpaper
• Bubbling in walls and ceiling
• Wet spots in carpet
• Peeling tile
• Cracked grout lines
• Warping floorboards
• Buckling in floors

Any changes in your walls, floors, and ceilings, can be an indicator that there is water damage occurring somewhere so be sure to get any suspicious or changing areas checked for hidden water damage.

Sudden Increase In Water Bill Or Water Usage

A sudden, unexplained increase in your water usage or water bill could be another sign of hidden water damage. Review your bill every month in comparison with prior bills.  There will be some months where water usage increases (for example, you will probably water your lawn more in the summer, and not need to in the winter). However, a sudden spike could mean there is a bigger issue. Make sure that appliances that use water are not running water when they are not in use, and check visible pipes for any possible leaks. If there is a sudden increase in your water usage that you cannot explain, look for the above signs for hidden water damage.

If you happen to notice any of the above signs of water damage in your home, call Shambaugh Cleaning right away. We offer water damage cleanup services in Mansfield and surrounding areas, and will be there as soon as possible to address the damage and get it corrected.