Signs You Need Water Damage Cleanup ASAP
One of the things that makes water damage so problematic is that it is not always obvious. Water damage occurring in the ceiling, behind walls, or under the floors can go unnoticed for extended periods of time, until the damage begins to become so severe it can no longer be ignored. One trait of water damage though, is that it almost always leaves signs of its presence, even when it is not obvious. If you know what to look for, you can catch water damage before it becomes a bigger problem. Water damage cleanup needs to begin right away to mitigate any further damage, so the longer it goes unresolved the more serious it becomes.
Water Damage Cleanup In New Orleans
If there is water leaking somewhere in your New Orleans home, here are some of the signs you should look for so you can begin water damage cleanup as soon as possible.
- Strong, musty smells often associate water damage, especially when it has been going on for a long time. Leaking water creates a perfect environment for mold and other microbial growth. Mold growth and mildew produce a pungent odor that is very unique to dampness (you know that smell when you leave a load of laundry in the washer too long? Yep, that’s the one). If you notice this specific, earthy smell in your home that cannot be explained, you should have the area evaluated for water damage.
- Water stains can be seen in ceiling tiles or along baseboards and walls when water has begun to seep into and through these materials. The discoloration from water stains often appears brownish in color, and has irregular shapes or borders. If the leak is active, these stains can actually grow larger or appear darker in color. Over time, discoloration stains may start to fade, but the outline will not go away and leaves unsightly marks until the materials are replaced. Do not ignore water stains or areas of discoloration, even if they are old. Instead, inspect the area for water damage and make sure the issue has been resolved correctly through the proper cleanup measures.
- Bubbling or blistering paint on walls and in ceilings are sure indicators that there is water damage. Water blisters on ceilings can become quite large and are actually pretty impressive. Since paint has latex in it, it gives it an elastic quality. When water leaks or floods saturate building materials like sheetrock, it will begin to seep under the paint and create bubbles that can turn into large blisters. Peeling or bubbling paint, no matter how big or small, tells you that there is water where it should not be.
- Mold is never good to find in your home. That is a problem in and of itself, but it also means that there is a water source promoting its growth. If you see mold, you know there is water damage supplying it. Mold can appear as a fuzzy-like growth on surfaces that are typically darker in color, ranging in shades of green, brown, and black. Do not ignore mold growth in your home, as it can cause some pretty serious respiratory issues to those exposed to it. Call in water damage cleanup experts at 225-401-6568 to assess the situation, stop the source of the water, and then you can remediate the mold.
