Signs of Water Damage in Your Ames Home

water damage cleanup amesWater damage to your home is usually pretty obvious. Whether the excess water is coming from a basement flood or a broken pipe, you will be able to see the water and all the destruction it is causing. But, this is not always the case. Water damage can sometimes strike when you least expect it. Maybe you have a hidden roof leak or a slow leaking pipe. You might be unaware of the damage that unwanted water is making when it seeps into your property. However, if this occurs, there are several signs to search for that will help you determine whether or not you have water damage and will need cleanup services.

Mold Outbreaks

Water damage frequently results in pools of water in dark and isolated areas.  Unfortunately, this is a great setting for mold spores to grow and thrive. Mold issues might continue even after you stop the flood or leak. These bacteria are a double threat to your household. Mold, for starters, deteriorates the nutrients in concrete materials and weakens the structural supports. Second, exposure to mold spores can be extremely harmful to human health. To avoid mold growth, repair the damage as quickly as possible.

Water Stains on Ceiling

Water damage causes dark brown stains on the ceiling. In these situations, parts of the ceiling will be significantly discolored, appearing yellow, orange, green, or brown. A leak from an appliance positioned directly above the stain could be the source of the water damage on the ceiling. Alternatively, the roof could have developed a leak. Water could flood the ceiling due to faulty plumbing, producing mineral deposits and ugly stains.

High Utility Bill

Water damage may not always be easy to spot, especially in a large house with several attics. In such cases, a sudden increase in utility bills is a good indication of water damage. Inspect for leaks in the visible pipes and taps throughout the house. If you discover any water leaks in the obvious places, consider the risk of water damage within the walls.

Cracking Or Bubbling Paint

You might see minor changes on the surface of a wall if there is a leak inside it. If the water damage is severe enough, paint or wallpaper will blister and bubble and eventually peel and crack. If this occurs, it usually indicates exposure to too much water, causing the structural materials to shrink and expand. The paint weakens as a result of shrinking and expanding, causing cracking and peeling.

Water Damage Cleanup Ames

When you suspect flood or water damage in your house, the best course of action is to hire an experienced water damage cleanup company. At Restoration 1 of Des Moines, we have experience with both commercial and residential water damage cleanup.  Our experts know how to examine and identify the source of a leak, and will focus on cleaning up and restoring the area as soon as possible to prevent any damage. For water damage cleanup Ames, call Restoration 1 of Des Moines. We offer 24/7 emergency response.