Lake Forest Plumbing specialist say, crawl spaces, attics, and basements are especially prone to water damage.
You see an appliance leak fairly soon, but problems such as those interior walls can remain completely hidden for weeks and maybe months.
So keep an eye out for any signs of discoloration, dampness mold, mildew, and scents
Old Water Stains – Lake Forest Plumbing
Lake Forest Plumbing specialist say, if you find damp areas, act immediately as the challenge is easier to track down and hasn’t had time for you and energy to cause damage.
Many of the people who call us are quite certain of where the leak is originating from, just to find out later they had been incorrect.
That’s because water can travel quite a distance, even upwards, before it makes itself understood.
So a professional inspection or leak detection is usually better than just fixing what may or may not be the main cause.
Building Leaks
Lake Forest Plumbing Specialist say roof leaks are probably the cause, but perhaps maybe not always.
Aside from a leaky pipe in the attic, there might possibly be condensation plumbing (or just about any surface for that matter).
Using a filthy gutter or obstructed downspout water can make its way into the attic then down to the ceiling.
Roof leakage aren’t always due to bad or missing shingles.
Damaged or poorly installed flashing around chimneys, vent pipes, and joints can also be a challenge.
The seals around skylights can get older, and the sky light itself can crack.
Other common construction leaks occur at the seals windows and doors, as well as at caulking where they combine the wall.
Siding and stucco can be damaged, and the joints between a deck and the house are also prone to leaks.
Pipes and Appliances
A little surprisingly, clothes washers are the number 1 cause of home flooding and water damage.
Sure they sometimes overflow or their drain gets clogged.
But old washer hoses can burst and release several hundred gallons of water before you know it.
Water heaters are another competitor.
That can release 40, 50, or maybe more gallons at a matter of minutes.
Just about any appliance that utilizes water can leak.
So do not overlook dishwashers, garbage disposals, and ice makers.
A plumbing leak that seems small may be more serious than you think.
Leaky pipes can easily release a few hundred gallons per month, overwhelming evaporation. Sump pumps can fail, and bathtubs can overflow.
And whether you have central A/C or a window air conditioner, then condensation can flow to where it can slowly cause mold and other water damage.
Humidity and Condensation
As you may have gathered, what seems like a leak may, in fact, make condensation.
That’s a common issue with toilets in bathrooms with showers.
It’s important to make certain that all kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans are working and that their vents are free of obstructions.
Condensation on windows can drip down and cause water damage on the frame and windowsills.
If you become aware of this often, consider using a dehumidifier or installing a whole-house dehumidifier.
For industry insights, announcements, and tips, make sure to follow our blog at: olsonsuperior.com/blog
