At Strouse Home Inspections, water damage is one of the items that we work hard to identify. The reason that this is an important place of concern is because water damage can be extremely varied in how far reaching it is and how extensive the damage is. It can alert you not only to immediate structural damage that needs to be addressed, but also to the underlying issues that allowed the water to infiltrate the property in the first place. If you suspect that there is water damage in your home or business property, it is important to get to the bottom of it right away. Here is our guide on how to identify water damage and its source.
What Does Water Damage Look like?
Most are familiar with what water damage on the ceiling looks like. Water actively leaking from the ceiling is the most obvious and the one that demands immediate action. Other tell-tale signs would be:
- Peeling or bubbling drywall or paint
- Mildew-like smells
- Sagging ceiling
- Discolored yellow or brown stains
Where is it Coming From?
If you have found what looks to be water damage, it is critical that you find the source of the water. An easy way to do this is to identify what is above the water damage. For instance, if the damage is to the ceiling on the top floor of your home, the likely culprit is your roof. Perhaps you had a recent bout of bad weather that dislodged some shingles. If the damage is not on the top floor, you will want to think of water sources that are immediately above you, such as a bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room.
Once you have identified where the water is coming from, it is important to try your best to stop the flow of water. If it is an appliance, do not use it until it is repaired. If it is a pipe, turn off the water supply to it until it can be fixed. And if it is your roof, place a tarp over the problem area until a contractor can come out to work on it.
Not everything can be prevented. But getting a meticulous inspection before you buy a property, and every few years afterwards, can end up saving you thousands of dollars. An inspection allows you to be aware of problem areas that you should keep an eye on, and areas that you should give attention to sooner rather than later. When you are ready to get a home inspection done, call the trusted professionals at Strouse Home Inspections.
By Strouse Home Inspections 1-18-2021
